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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) FAQs

Answering frequently asked questions about workplace PPE such as, who is responsible for providing PPE? and what to do if someone refuses to wear PPE?, including practical tips for PPE use.

Why is it important to wear PPE?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a control measure and last resort in reducing risk. It I provided where a risk assessment shows it is required. Examples of PPE include safety helmets, dust masks, gloves, safety goggles and safety footwear.

Our PPE Training raises awareness of how personal protective measures help to control hazards, the types of PPE available and how to use it effectively.

Who is responsible for providing PPE?

Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992, it is a legal requirement for employers to provide suitable PPE to employees where a risk assessment shows it is required.

What do I do if someone refuses to wear PPE?

With the exception of a religious or medical reason, all employers should use PPE safely and properly. If a worker refuses to wear their PPE it should be investigated and it can be considered a disciplinary matter.

Employers are responsible for specifying and providing PPE to contend with the particular hazard. Consultation and involving employees in the selection process is a good way of ensuring use and compliance is achieved.

What do I do if my employer has provided inadequate PPE?

Employers are legally required to provide equipment that is fit for purpose, maintained and provides the right level of protection. If this is not the case, employees have the right to raise the matter with the employer and raise a grievance.

Are there religious exemptions from some types of PPE?

Yes – the Employment Act 1989 exempts turban-wearing Sikhs from the legal requirement to wear a safety helmet at work, including construction sites.

What types of signs are used to indicate the type of PPE you should wear?

Yes – there is blue mandatory signage saying which PPE is required and the warning signs.

When should PPE be used in the workplace?

PPE should be used when workplace risks cannot be eliminated or fully controlled. It is required for:

  1. Residual risks after applying other controls.
  2. Legal compliance, e.g., for chemicals, noise, or dust.
  3. Temporary safety gaps during work changes.
  4. Specific hazards like falling objects or extreme temperatures.

Employers must assess risks, provide suitable PPE free of charge, ensure it fits properly, and train employees on its use. PPE is a last resort, complementing other safety measures.

What does PPE include?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) includes a wide range of gear designed to protect workers from workplace hazards:

  1. Head protection: Hard hats, bump caps.
  2. Eye and face protection: Safety goggles, face shields.
  3. Hearing protection: Earplugs, earmuffs.
  4. Respiratory protection: Masks, respirators.
  5. Hand protection: Gloves for chemical, thermal, or mechanical risks.
  6. Body protection: High-visibility clothing, aprons, overalls.
  7. Foot protection: Safety boots, anti-slip or puncture-resistant footwear.
  8. Fall protection: Harnesses, lanyards.

Which is the correct order for putting on PPE?

The correct order for putting on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) depends on the workplace setting and the type of PPE, but a general sequence recommended by safety guidelines is:

  1. Hand hygiene: Wash or sanitise hands thoroughly.
  2. Gown or body protection: Put on overalls, aprons, or gowns, ensuring full coverage.
  3. Mask or respirator: Secure the mask or respirator, ensuring a proper fit.
  4. Eye protection: Wear goggles or a face shield over the mask.
  5. Gloves: Put gloves on last, ensuring they cover the cuffs of the gown or clothing.