Using smart PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) in waste management. Advantages and disadvantages

Once hazards for workers are highlighted, engineering and administrative controls should be adopted in workplaces and, finally, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). In Italy, INAIL is involved in studying the application of the national plan “Industry 4.0” to safety in workplaces and in improving the protective systems’ performances through the use of “Industry 4.0” devices. Smart PPE are “Industry 4.0” products representing the most interesting way to increase protection standards in risk management. Smart PPE are advanced PPE, integrating materials, sensors and ICT solutions enhancing product multi-functionality. Many functions can be integrated in Smart PPE: health and environmental monitoring; wireless communication; personal localization (GPS) and geographic information system (GIS); cooling and heating; additional functions as an emergency stop or hazard reduction; smart textiles; wireless tracking and identification; physical security information management; augmented reality. There are advantages and disadvantages in using these items, to be taken into account for workers’ safety. The aim of this study is to provide an overview of smart PPE’s pros and consreferring to every phase of solid waste management, one of the most hazardous employment sectors in Europe, where PPE are essential to reduce risks. Moreover, some interesting features of existing smart PPE will be pointed out, such as the communication based on Bluetooth or RFID TAGs and sensors, the face recognition, or the integration of augmented reality. Finally, the first results of INAIL’s project about a smart PPE will be illustrated. At the end of the project activities this item will be available free of charge.