Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Selection, Use, and Maintenance

Date: 2026-01-12

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To ensure all employees understand the proper selection, inspection, use, maintenance, and storage of PPE to maintain a safe working environment and comply with safety regulations.

Introduction

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for minimizing workplace hazards. This toolbox talk covers the correct selection, inspection, use, maintenance, and storage of PPE.

Key Points

• Proper Selection: Choose PPE appropriate for the specific hazards in your work area. Consider the task, potential hazards, and the level of protection needed.
• Regular Inspection: Inspect PPE before each use for any signs of damage, wear, or defects. Replace damaged or worn PPE immediately.
• Correct Donning and Doffing: Wear PPE properly as per the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure a snug and comfortable fit.
• Proper Use: Use PPE consistently and correctly for the duration of the task. Do not modify or alter PPE.
• Maintenance and Cleaning: Clean and maintain PPE according to the manufacturer's instructions. Store PPE in a clean, dry place when not in use.
• Regulatory Compliance: Understand and adhere to all relevant safety regulations and standards regarding PPE.

Hazard Identification

Identifying hazards is the first step in selecting the appropriate PPE.

• Falling or flying objects: Head injuries, eye injuries
• Chemical splashes or exposure: Skin burns, eye damage, respiratory issues
• Crushing or rolling objects: Foot and leg injuries
• Sharp objects or materials: Cuts, lacerations, punctures, and abrasions
• Excessive noise levels: Hearing loss

Control Measures

• Conduct a hazard assessment: Evaluate the workplace to identify potential hazards and determine the appropriate PPE. [3]
• Provide appropriate PPE: Ensure that PPE is readily available and suitable for the identified hazards. [4]
• Training on PPE use: Train employees on how to properly use, inspect, and maintain their PPE. [3]
• Regular inspection and maintenance: Establish a system for regular inspection and maintenance of PPE to ensure it remains in good working condition. [3]
• Enforce PPE use: Supervisors should enforce the use of required PPE and address any non-compliance issues promptly. [3]

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• Hard Hats: Protect against falling objects and head injuries. Ensure the hard hat fits properly and is in good condition. Do not wear baseball hats underneath. [1] [1]
• Safety Glasses/Goggles: Protect eyes from flying particles, chemical splashes, and dust. Use appropriate eye protection based on the specific hazard. [1] [1]
• Gloves: Protect hands from cuts, abrasions, chemical exposure, and extreme temperatures. Select the appropriate type of glove for the task. [2]
• Safety Shoes/Boots: Protect feet from crushing injuries, punctures, and electrical hazards. Ensure footwear meets safety standards. [1] [1]
• Respirators: Protect against harmful dusts, fumes, and gases. Use respirators when engineering controls are not sufficient.

Real-World Example or Case Study

A construction worker failed to wear safety glasses while operating a grinder. A metal fragment entered his eye, resulting in a serious injury. This incident highlights the importance of wearing appropriate eye protection at all times.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

1. What types of PPE are required for your specific tasks?
2. How do you inspect your PPE before use?
3. What do you do if your PPE is damaged or not fitting correctly?

Emergency Procedures

1. In case of PPE failure, immediately stop work and replace the damaged PPE.
2. If exposed to hazardous materials, follow the appropriate decontamination procedures.
3. Report any PPE-related incidents or concerns to your supervisor.

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Always select the right PPE for the job.
• Inspect PPE before each use.
• Use and maintain PPE properly.
• Follow all safety regulations and procedures.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

Safety powered by SALUS