Personal Protective Equipment
By law your employer has basic duties concerning the provision and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
PPE is defined as clothing or equipment intended to be worn by an employee at work protecting them against hazards to their health that they may encounter during their work. This includes safety footwear; safety helmets: protective eyewear and gloves.
When Should PPE Be Used?
PPE must only be issued as a last resort to protect an employee. Other safety measures must be considered in the first instance. This would include replacing a toxic substance for a non-hazardous product.
The PPE Regulations specify that a risk assessment must be undertaken to ensure the correct PPE is provided, this means it must be appropriate for the work and fit the wearer.
If your PPE is not suitable for the job report it to your supervisor or manager immediately. Additionally if your PPE is damaged or defective in any way you must ensure it is replaced.
Don’t forget you must wear PPE if it has been provided for the job; if you do not then you put yourself at risk of long term health effects.