PPE Series
Guarding Against the Green PPE Tips for Poison Ivy Safety By Jason Collins
The U.S. is home to a variety of poi- sonous plants, with poison ivy (Tox- icodendron diversilobum) being one of the most common threats in North America. For tree care workers, recognizing poison ivy and using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is key to reducing exposure and maintaining safety on the job. According to the CDC, around 85% of the population is susceptible to poi- son ivy and poison sumac allergies, with 10–50 million Americans affect- ed annually. Contact with urushiol, the toxic oil found on poison ivy leaves, can lead to reactions ranging from mild skin rashes to severe symptoms requiring emergency care. Mild reactions include small rashes and itching, while more severe cases
involve breathing difficulties and rashes around sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth, and genitals. Preventing exposure requires two critical steps: identifying poison ivy and wearing appropriate PPE. While avoidance is the best strategy, it is not always feasible in dense or overgrown areas, making PPE essential. LONG SLEEVES When selecting long sleeves for tree care, it is important to choose flexible, ventilated fabrics, especially when working in warm weather. Coveralls provide the most reliable protection but can be too bulky in hotter months when poison ivy is prevalent. In spring and summer, mois- ture-wicking long-sleeve shirts and pants are a better option — just be
sure to tuck your shirt into your pants to ensure full coverage. Here are a few lightweight, protective clothing options: Solidur Coolmax Long-Sleeve Shirt : Offers UV-resistant, moisture-wicking fabric and breathable mesh panels to protect against poison ivy while keeping arborists cool.
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