Using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) at Work

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is clothing or equipment worn to help protect people from health and safety risks at work. It can include safety helmets, gloves, eye protection, high-visibility clothing, safety footwear, hearing protection and respiratory protective equipment.

PPE can reduce the chance or severity of injury or illness, but it should not be treated as the first or only way to control a hazard. It works best when it is selected carefully, fits properly and is used alongside other safety measures.

When is PPE needed?

Employers should assess risks and, where reasonably practicable, control them at source. This may mean removing a hazard, changing a work process, improving ventilation or installing guarding. PPE is generally used when risks cannot be adequately controlled by these measures alone, or as an additional layer of protection.

Examples include wearing eye protection when there is a risk of flying particles, gloves when handling certain hazardous substances, or hearing protection in areas where noise cannot be reduced sufficiently by other means.

Choosing suitable PPE

The right equipment depends on the hazards, the task and the person using it. Employers should consider:

• the type and level of risk;
• whether the equipment offers adequate protection for the task;
• fit, comfort and compatibility with other PPE;
• the conditions in which it will be used, including heat, moisture and duration of wear;
• whether it is suitable for the individual wearer; and
• the manufacturer’s instructions and any relevant standards.

For example, ordinary glasses may not provide the same protection as properly selected safety eyewear. Likewise, not all gloves protect against every chemical, cut or temperature. If respiratory protective equipment is required, it must be suitable for the hazard and worn correctly. Some types need to be face-fit tested to check that they seal properly.

Employers’ responsibilities

In Great Britain, the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, as amended, set requirements for providing and using PPE at work. Where PPE is required, employers should provide suitable equipment, make sure it is maintained and replaced when necessary, and give workers information, instruction and training on its correct use. Required PPE should be provided without charge.

Employers should also make sure workers know when PPE must be worn, how to put it on and remove it safely, how to check it, and how to report damage or problems. PPE should be stored appropriately so that it remains clean and effective.

Workers’ responsibilities

Workers should use PPE as instructed, take reasonable care of it and report any loss, damage or defect promptly. Equipment should not be altered or used for a purpose for which it was not designed. Workers should also raise concerns if PPE does not fit, causes discomfort or appears unsuitable for the task.

Using and maintaining PPE

Before use, check that the equipment is clean, undamaged and in good working order. Make sure it fits correctly and is worn in the way shown during training. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, storage, inspection and replacement. Do not use equipment that is damaged or past its service life.

Some PPE needs more than a visual check. Respirators, for example, may require regular inspection and maintenance, and close-fitting facepieces need to seal against the wearer’s face. Facial hair or other items between the face and the seal can affect protection.

Common limitations

PPE does not remove a hazard. It may fail if it is poorly selected, worn incorrectly, damaged or incompatible with other equipment. It can also create practical difficulties, such as restricting movement, reducing visibility or making communication harder. These issues should be considered when choosing equipment and planning the work.

Making PPE part of a wider safety plan

Effective protection starts with a suitable risk assessment and a clear plan for controlling hazards. PPE can play an important role, but it should support—not replace—safer equipment, work practices and workplace design. Regular checks, good training and open communication help ensure that protective equipment is used effectively.

This article provides general information. Employers should check the requirements that apply to their workplace and seek competent health and safety advice where needed.