The law
Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992:
require employers to provide appropriate protective clothing and equipment for their employees.
Regulations are law, approved by Parliament. These are usually made under the Health and Safety at Work Act, following proposals from the HSC. This applies to regulations based on EC Directives as well as ‘home-grown’ ones.
A few types of equipment are not covered by the Regulations, mainly ordinary working clothes and uniforms that don’t specifically protect against risks to health and safety.
Because the effectiveness of PPE can be easily compromised, eg by not being worn properly, it should always be considered as the last resort and used only where other precautions cannot adequately reduce the risk of injury.
Training
Make sure the user is aware of why PPE is needed, when it is to be used, repaired or replaced and its limitations. Instruct, train, and supervise its use. Because PPE is the last resort after other methods of protection have been considered, it is important that users wear it all the time they are exposed to the risk. Never allow exemptions for those jobs which take just a few ’minutes’. Check regularly the use of PPE and investigate fully any reasons for non-use. Safety signs can be useful reminders to wear PPE.
Check that:
- PPE is provided;
- it offers adequate protection for its intended use;
- those using it are adequately trained in its safe use;
- it is properly maintained and defects reported;
- it is returned to its proper accommodation after use.
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