Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
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An employer must provide PPE at no cost to employees.
Every day, workers in most industries are exposed to hazards that can lead to serious and costly injuries such as broken bones, bruises, severe cuts, burns, permanent disability, and even death.
Personal protective equipment is worn to protect the eyes, face, head, body, arms, hands, legs, and feet from hazards. Examples of PPE include the following:
- Hardhats.
- Eye protection and face shields.
- Fall protection systems.
- Respirators.
- Hearing protection.
- Protective gloves.
- High-visibility vests and ballistic vests.
- Chaps.
- Steel-toe shoes and safey boots.
Employers must conduct a PPE assessment to identify hazards, determine if PPE is necessary, and provide training to ensure correct use and maintenance, which should be addressed in an effective Accident Prevention Program.
Related topics
- Accident Prevention Program.
- Agriculture.
- Bloodborne Pathogens.
- Boats and Waterfront Safety.
- Chemical Hazard Communication.
- Emergency Washing Facilities (Eyewash and Shower).
- Fall Protection.
- Hazardous Drugs.
- Job Hazard Analysis (JHA).
- Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention.
- OSHA 300 Log (Recordkeeping and Reporting).
- Respiratory Protection.
How can I get more help from L&I?
- To request a confidential workplace safety or health consultation, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Consultation/ for no charge technical assistance.
- For help with controlling your claims costs, call or visit http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Consultation/riskmanagement.asp for a no charge risk management consultation.
- Find information about filing a workplace safety & health complaint you may call or visit a local L&I office to file a complaint.
- Follow guidance in Getting Started to create your required safety program from scratch.
- For general information, call 1-800-423-7233.
