ETN - A Revolution in Safety - New PPE Rules

 

In this article, we examine the fundamental differences between the ETN and TON, the purpose and timing of the transition to the new system of providing workers with protective equipment

Uniform standard norms to replace the Standard industry norms

In March 2022, a new version of Section X of the Labor Code of the Russian Federation, "Occupational Safety," came into force. It provides the basis for implementing a new approach to selecting and providing workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) and dermatological personal protective equipment (DPPE) based on an occupational risk assessment (ORA).

 

Article 221 of the Labor Code of the Russian Federation establishes a new approach to the procedure for providing workers with personal protective equipment (PPE). The concept of uniform standard standards for the issuance of PPE and cleaning agents has been introduced, taking into account:

• results of the special assessment of working conditions (SAWC);
• results of occupational risk assessments (ORAs) for a specific workplace;
• opinions of the elected body of the primary trade union, accredited organization or other authorized representative body of workers (if any).

According to Article 221 of the Labor Code of the Russian Federation, PPE must be issued to employees whose work:

• associated with harmful and (or) hazardous factors of the production environment;
• occurs under special temperature conditions;
• associated with pollution.

Why do you need to switch to ETN?

The primary goal of the transition to the Unified Safety Standard is to ensure worker safety based on the hazards and hazardous events identified in their workplace. The Special Assessment of Working Conditions (SAWS) takes into account a very limited number of production factors, which does not allow for a full assessment of the presence and intensity of their impact on workers. It should also be taken into account that the actual working conditions of employees in the same profession can vary significantly, even within a single enterprise. In this case, workers may require PPE with different protection classes or performance levels. If all potential hazards are not considered and the worker is not provided with PPE based on the existing risks, this may result in injuries resulting from workplace accidents.

 

Assessing occupational risks and selecting PPE based on the risks present in the workplace will allow:

• reduce the problem associated with the disability of workers in the workplace as a result of injuries;
• minimize the duration of sick leave;
• increase occupational safety by providing maximum protection for workers from harmful or hazardous factors in the production environment.

 

 

Features of providing workers with PPE according to the ETN

The transition to the Unified Health Inventory (EHI) requires a number of new rules for providing workers with personal protective equipment and cleaning agents, which employers will need to take into account in their operations.

 

 

Transition period from TON to ETN

In accordance with the requirements of the Order of the Ministry of Labor of Russia No. 766n and the Order of the Ministry of Labor of Russia No. 767n, the employer has the right to switch from the TON to the ETN starting from September 1, 2023, but the final ban on the use of TON is established from January 1, 2025, and the Rules for providing workers with PPE and washing agents (hereinafter referred to as the Rules), approved by Order of the Ministry of Labor of Russia No. 766n, come into force on September 1, 2023.

 

The period from September 1, 2023 to December 31, 2024 is designated as a transitional period. During this period, the employer independently determines the date for the transition of PPE provision to employees from the TON to the ETN, depending on the readiness

 

 

This means that from September 1, 2023, until the end of 2024, employers have the right to issue PPE based on either the TON or the ETN. This period is given for the development of regulations for the issuance of PPE based on the ETN and the approval of their local regulations.

 

The organization must independently decide when to switch to the ETH during the transition period, in terms of preparing all documentation and organizing all on-site work to ensure a smooth transition. For large organizations, this period may not be as long, and if preparations are made early and careful planning is undertaken, the allotted 16 months are sufficient time to prepare for the issuance of PPE according to the ETH rules.

How to simplify the transition to ETH

To simplify the transition to the ETH, a program for establishing standards for issuing PPE has been established. It includes three simple steps, and if a company sees difficulty in transitioning to the ETH, even during the transition period, following the established algorithm will make it easier:

1. The first stage is preparatory (collection of primary documents);
2. The second stage is the finalization or revision of the results of the OPR;
3. The third stage is the actual formation of standards for the issuance of PPE.

 

How PROSAFE will help with the transition to ETH

 

PROSAFE is ready to assist you in selecting work footwear that meets the new ETN requirements and your specific risks and needs. We can:

• Work footwear selection: Based on risk assessments and the specific needs of your business, we will recommend optimal footwear models that provide maximum protection and comfort.
• Customized solutions: We will select footwear that is ideal for your working conditions, taking into account all the nuances and features.

With PROSAFE, your transition to new standards will be smoother and more efficient, ensuring worker protection and compliance with new regulations. To do this, please fill out the contact form on our website or call 8 (800) 500-60-53