The use of correct personal protective equipment (PPE's) in the workplace

An employer has a duty to safeguard all employees. This may mean that they have to provide staff with equipment, clothing, gloves or similar gear that prevents injury or reduces the risk of harm.

If an employer fails to comply with this basic health & safety requirement then they will be liable for any breach that results in a personal injury to an employee or for that matter any other person.

The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 provide the following guidelines:

What are PPE's?

PPE is defined in the Regulations as ‘all equipment (including clothing affording protection against the weather) which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work and which protects him against one or more risks to his health or safety’,

 

This includes - safety helmets, gloves, eye protection, high-visibility clothing, safety footwear and safety harnesses. Hearing protection and respiratory protective equipment provided for most work situations are not covered by these Regulations because other regulations apply to them. However these items need to be compatible with any other PPE provided.

 

Cycle helmets or crash helmets worn by employees on the roads are not covered by the Regulations. Motorcycle helmets are legally required for motorcyclists under road traffic legislation.

 

The main requirement of the PPE at Work Regulations1992

The main requirement is that personal protective equipment is to be supplied and used at work wherever there are risks to health and safety that cannot be adequately controlled in other ways.

 

The Regulations require that PPE:

 

• is properly assessed before use to ensure it is suitable;

• is maintained and stored properly;

• is provided with instructions on how to use it safely; and

• is used correctly by employees.

 

If you find you suffer injury as a result of a lack of proper equipment at work - CALL NOW FOR FREE ADVICE ON MAKING A COMPENSATION CLAIM

 

Tel FREE 0800 0322210

 

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