What is the role of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for EMS workers?

The role of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for EMS workers is primarily to protect against infection and the various dangers encountered during rescue operations. PPE includes items such as gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection, which are essential to safeguard healthcare workers from exposure to pathogens, bodily fluids, and hazardous materials.

While enhancing visibility and complying with protocols are important aspects of EMS operations, the fundamental purpose of PPE is to ensure safety by minimizing the risk of infection and injury. In the chaotic environment of emergency response, the risks can be substantial, including exposure to infectious diseases and physical hazards, making the use of PPE critical for the safety and health of EMS personnel.