Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Personal Protective Equipment is the last line of defense in the hierarchy of controls — used when hazards cannot be eliminated, substituted, or engineered out. PPE does not eliminate the hazard; it creates a barrier between the worker and the hazard. OSHA requires employers to perform a written hazard assessment of the workplace to determine what PPE is needed (29 CFR 1926.28 and 1910.132). For most PPE, employers must provide it at no cost to workers. Workers must be trained on when PPE is needed, what PPE to use, how to properly put it on/take it off (don and doff), how to inspect it for defects, and its limitations.

Head protection (hard hats) is required in areas where there is a risk of head injury from falling or flying objects, or from electrical hazards. Hard hats are classified by their electrical protection: Class E (Electrical, protects up to 20,000 volts) for use where overhead electrical hazards exist; Class G (General, protects up to 2,200 volts) for general construction; Class C (Conductive) provides no electrical protection and should NOT be used near electrical hazards. Always wear the hard hat with the brim forward unless the task requires a reverse position. Eye and face protection must meet ANSI Z87.1 standards. Safety glasses protect against flying particles; goggles provide a seal against chemical splash; face shields (always worn over safety glasses) protect the face from grinding, cutting, and chemical splash. Hearing protection is required at 85 dB TWA — use earplugs (NRR 25-33) or earmuffs (NRR 22-30).

Respiratory protection is critical for construction hazards like silica, lead, asbestos, and chemical vapors. N95 respirators filter at least 95% of airborne particles and require a fit test. Half-face respirators with cartridges protect against specific vapors and gases as well as particulates, depending on cartridge type. Full-face respirators provide both eye and respiratory protection at higher concentrations. All tight-fitting respirators require a fit test before first use and annually. Foot protection must meet ANSI Z41 standards and is required where falling objects, penetration from nails/screws, or electrical hazards exist. High-visibility vests: Class 2 is minimum for most road construction; Class 3 is required for flaggers and workers near high-speed traffic.