Educational workplace-safety awareness — connected to industries, occupations, employment law, employment documents and company types. Informational only — not legal advice and not a substitute for mandatory workplace safety training; employers remain responsible for compliance, training and worker authorization.
Who this guide is for
This guide is for new workers who want to understand what PPE is and how to use it. It is awareness only — it does not decide what PPE you need or replace your employer’s instruction and risk assessment.
What PPE you must wear, and when, is set by your employer based on the hazards of your job. Where this guide is general, follow the specific PPE rules and training your workplace gives you.
What to expect with PPE at work
- Your employer assessing which hazards need PPE for your tasks.
- Being provided with suitable PPE, usually at no cost to you.
- Instruction on how to wear, adjust, check and store each item.
- PPE that fits you — fit and comfort affect how well it protects.
- Replacement of PPE that is damaged, worn out or no longer suitable.
- Clear rules on where and when each item must be worn.
Common types of PPE
- Head protection, such as a hard hat, where there is a risk of falling objects.
- Eye and face protection against particles, splashes or radiation.
- Hearing protection in high-noise areas.
- Hand protection — gloves chosen for the specific task.
- Foot protection, such as safety boots with toe protection.
- High-visibility clothing where people and vehicles share space.
- Respiratory protection where the risk assessment requires it.
How to use PPE safely
- Wear the PPE your employer provides for each task, every time.
- Check that it fits and is in good condition before you use it.
- Put it on and adjust it the way you were shown.
- Store and clean it as instructed so it stays effective.
- Remember PPE is a last line of defence, not a replacement for safe working.
What to do if PPE is missing or damaged
- Do not start a task that needs PPE you do not have.
- Tell your supervisor if PPE is missing, damaged or does not fit.
- Report worn-out or faulty PPE so it can be replaced.
- Ask if you are unsure which PPE a task requires.
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