Use this toolbox talk to guide a conversation with employees on essential PPE for your operation. This is just a starting point — remember, specific job hazards and regulatory standards may require additional PPE. Explore detailed OSHA guidelines for PPE.

1. Head protection

Potential hazards: Falling tools or objects, low beams, machine parts, pipes

  • Wear hard hats to protect from falling objects and bumps.
  • Secure tools and equipment to prevent falls.
  • Mark hazardous areas and use padding or guards.

2. Eye and face protection

Potential hazards: Dust, flying particles, chemical splashes, intense light or lasers, welding

  • Wear safety goggles or glasses to protect from dust and debris.
  • Use face shields for extra protection against chemicals and intense light.
  • Have emergency eyewash stations ready.

3. Respiratory protection

Potential hazards: Airborne dust, chemical fumes

  • Use dust masks or respirators to keep lungs safe.
  • Ensure proper ventilation to reduce exposure.

4. Hand protection

Potential hazards: Scrapes, cuts, chemicals, extreme heat, electrical shocks

  • Wear heavy-duty gloves for rough surfaces and chemical-resistant gloves for handling chemicals.
  • Use heat-resistant gloves when working near extreme heat.
  • Wear insulated gloves for electrical work.

5. Foot protection

Potential hazards: Falling objects, electrical shocks, molten metal

  • Wear steel-toe boots to protect from heavy objects.
  • Use insulated boots for electrical work.
  • Wear heat-resistant boots for handling molten metal.
  • Use anti-static boots in explosive environments

6. Body protection

Potential hazards: Dust, chemical splashes, sharp surfaces, extreme heat, hazardous substances

  • Wear protective clothing like overalls or aprons that resist dust and chemicals.
  • Use durable clothing for sharp surfaces and heat-resistant clothing for extreme heat.
  • Follow safety procedures for handling hazardous substances.

7. Hearing protection

Potential hazards: Dust, chemical splashes, sharp surfaces, extreme heat, hazardous substances

  • Wear earplugs or earmuffs to protect hearing.
  • Limit exposure time and take regular breaks.
  • Use noise barriers and maintain equipment to minimize noise.
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