Gordon Graham
Category: Law Enforcement

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol.

Today’s Tip is for law enforcement professionals and today I’m talking about Personnel Protective Equipment (PPE). Appropriate use of PPE will help you stay safe from the many dangerous substances floating around out there.

Gone are the days of bare hands reaching into pockets and under car seats. A glove pouch on your belt is just about as essential as a handcuff case.

How many of you conduct searches? Yep, nearly all of you. It’s just a normal part of the job. Gone are the days of bare hands reaching into pockets and under car seats. A glove pouch on your belt is just about as essential as a handcuff case.

Dangerous drugs and other hazardous substances that can be absorbed through the skin are everywhere. As just one example, you know that cops all over the nation have been hospitalized from exposure to fentanyl. Then there was a significant disease outbreak in San Diego. It resulted in over 500 cases of Hepatitis A. The outbreak was a result of human waste. It affected many in homeless community and many illicit drug users. The problem was so severe that the health department had to wash the streets with bleach to prevent the spread of disease.

Personal protective equipment, or PPE, provides your first line of defense from the microscopic world. Single-use gloves can help keeping you safe from drugs and body fluids. Disposable masks can do the same for airborne viruses.

You never know what kind of substances or viruses you will be exposed to. You wouldn’t think about hitting the street without your vest or your gun. Make sure PPE, like gloves and masks, get the respect and attention they deserve. Your life could depend on it.

And that’s Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Until next time, Gordon Graham signing off.