Personal Protective Equipment (PPE – head, eye, face, leg, and hand protection)

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.
• Firing Range Hazards
• Hazardous Drugs.
• Job Hazard Analysis (JHA).
• Logging
• Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention.
• OSHA 300 Log (Recordkeeping and Reporting).
• Outdoor Heat Exposure
• Respiratory Protection.

More help from L&I

Getting Started with Safety.
Safety & Health Consultation.
Reducing Claims Costs.
Workplace SafetyComplaints.

For general information, call 1-800-423-7233.