PPE Responsibilities of employees

PPE is designed to protect workers from workplace hazards and risk but PPE doesn’t last as long as many people believe. Once you have the equipment, the job is by no means over. PPE is provided by employers and needs to be inspected regularly. These inspections depend on how often the PPE is used and the conditions in which it is used.

The question is who should be in charge of carrying out those checks and determining when replacement is necessary. There should be a dedicated employee or team of employees who are responsible for each type of equipment.

Assigning an important task to your employees helps them take ownership of their safety. Of course, ultimately, it’s the employer’s responsibility to provide a safe work space through correct health and safety procedures and measures. Having someone responsible for routine checks is a however a good idea with a more overarching view taken on, say, a quarterly basis.

Consider having a monthly check on all PPE that is given to employees. Inform employees that any damaged items are to be reported immediately. All damaged equipment is then to be replaced before the employee returns to work.

A good PPE program would include:

• Conducts a Workplace Survey
• Assesses Safety Measures
• Selects Appropriate Controls
• Selects the Right Equipment
• Conducts Fit Tests
• Trains Employees on Equipment Use
• Offers Management Support
• Maintains and Stores Equipment Correctly
• Audits the Programme Regularly

If you need help or assistance with PPE or other health and safety related issues then please visit www.walkersafety.co.uk or contact Walker Health and Safety Services on 0845 834 0400.