To ensure workplace safety, employers must provide and maintain appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for employees when hazards are present that could cause injury or impairment 1, 8. This includes equipment for the eyes, face, head, and extremities, as well as protective clothing, respiratory devices, and protective shields and barriers [1].

Key aspects of PPE requirements include:

• Hazard Assessment: Employers must assess the workplace to identify hazards that necessitate PPE use 1, 8, 10.
• Equipment Selection: The selected PPE must protect employees from the identified hazards and fit each employee properly 1, 8, 10.
• Training: Employers must train employees on when PPE is necessary, what PPE is needed, how to use it correctly, its limitations, and proper care and disposal 1, 4, 10.
• Maintenance and Condition: PPE must be maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition, and defective or damaged equipment must not be used 1, 10, 11.
• Payment: Generally, employers must provide PPE at no cost to employees, with some exceptions for non-specialty safety footwear and prescription eyewear [2].

Specific PPE requirements may vary depending on the nature of the hazard. For example, eye protection must be used when there is a risk of eye injury from flying particles, molten metal, liquid chemicals, or injurious light radiation [3]. Similarly, appropriate footwear must be worn to protect against foot injuries 5, 6, and flame-resistant clothing must be worn when there is a risk of flash fire or electrical flashover [4].

It is also important to have a written personal protective equipment program that addresses PPE selection, use, maintenance, training, and other relevant factors [5].