Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The OSHA PPE standards require you to protect workers from potential hazards in workplace operations. Personal protective equipment reduces employee exposure to hazards.

PPE is never the first choice when it comes to protecting employees from workplace hazards. However, in many cases, it's the only choice. OSHA's PPE regulations are found in 1910 Subpart I (1910.132-1910.140).

Match PPE Equipment to the Work Environment

Employers are required to perform a hazard assessment and equipment selection per 1910.132(d). If that assessment reveals that hazards are present, or likely to be present, the employer must: select – and have employees use – the types of PPE that will protect the employee from the hazards identified in the hazard assessment; communicate that information to each employee; and select PPE that properly fits each employee.

The hazard assessment doesn't specifically apply to respiratory protection and electrical protective equipment, however it's still a good idea to include those in the hazard assessment.

Commonly Used Types of PPE

Many companies use one or more types of PPE. Be it something as simple as wearing a pair of leather work gloves, to as involved as wearing a respirator, eye protection, hearing protection, a hard hat or safety helmet, and work boots, PPE can be a lifesaver.