Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Understanding Personal protective equipment (PPE)

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is clothing or equipment designed to protect employees from physical harm or health risks at work.
• Types of PPE include gloves, safety boots, high visibility jackets, helmets, and eye and ear protection.
• PPE is subject to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992.

Using PPE

• PPE should be worn and used in the manner for which it is intended. Misusing PPE can lead to serious injuries and accidents.
• Proper maintenance of PPE is crucial. Always ensure it is in good working condition before you use it.
• Report any damaged or defective PPE to your supervisor immediately.
• PPE should be worn in conjunction with following safe working practices, it is not a substitute for these.

Responsibilities with PPE

• Employers have a legal obligation to provide appropriate PPE to their employees.
• The employee’s responsibility is to wear PPE correctly and to report any issues or discrepancies.
• Both employer and employee are responsible for ensuring that PPE is used and maintained correctly.
• Regular PPE training should be provided and undertaken to ensure everyone knows how to use and care for the equipment properly.

Selection of PPE

• Selection of PPE should be based on the risk assessment of the task or environment.
• PPE should fit properly, taking into account the employee’s size, comfort and ability to do their job.
• Where multiple types of PPE are required, consideration should be given to ensure they can be used together effectively.

Importance of PPE

• PPE can help prevent serious injuries or illnesses occurring from workplace hazards.
• It is a critical part of achieving and maintaining a safe working environment.
• Safe workers lead to better productivity and job satisfaction, by avoiding downtime due to injuries.