Use this guide to help lead a discussion with employees on the importance of PPE in the workplace, including when and what types are necessary, potential limitations, proper care, maintenance, and replacement procedures. Ensure employees know who to contact with any questions about PPE.
1. When is PPE necessary?
PPE helps protect employees from hazards that can cause serious injury or illness.
OSHA 1910.132(a) requires employers to provide, use, and maintain PPE in a sanitary and reliable condition whenever necessary.
You only have one body, so it’s essential to protect it from hazards.
2. What kind of PPE is necessary?
Head protection: For falling objects, electrical shock, low pipes / beams.
Eye and face protection: For flying particles / dust, chemicals, blood, light / radiation.
Lung protection: For fumes, mist, dust, vapors.
Hand protection: For hot / cold temperatures, chemicals, blood, electrical shock, cuts / scrapes / bruises.
Hearing protection: For impact noise >140dB or continuous noise.
Feet protection: For falling / dropped objects, electrical shock, molten metal / burns, puncture, chemicals.
Body protection: For chemicals, hot / cold temperatures, dust, sunlight / UV exposure.
3. What PPE training is needed for workers?
Ensure you understand what PPE is required and when to wear it.
Learn the correct procedures to put on, remove, adjust, and wear PPE.
Recognize the limitations of PPE.
Know proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal of PPE.
If you don’t know, ask — contact supervisors with questions and for replacement PPE.
4. What are some limitations of PPE?
PPE provides a barrier but does not eliminate hazards.
Not all PPE protects against every hazard; specialized protection may be needed.
Proper fit and maintenance are crucial for effectiveness.
PPE may be uncomfortable and can be especially hot in certain climates.
5. Proper care, maintenance, useful life and disposal of PPE
Inspect PPE for any signs of damage or wear.
Clean PPE according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Store PPE in a clean and dry place.
Follow manufacturer’s guidelines for useful life; replace early if exposed to harsh environments or showing wear.
Dispose of contaminated PPE according to local regulations and guidelines.
Follow manufacturer’s disposal recommendations for non-contaminated PPE.
