The Importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

What is PPE?

Personal Protective Equipment, known as PPE, are items you wear or use to protect yourself from different hazards of the job.

The type of PPE you may need to wear at work will depend on a number of factors, such as tasks, inherent hazards and risks, the work space, what kinds of product(s) and material(s) you use and produce, hygiene, and any applicable legislation.

PPE can include, but is certainly not limited to:

• Safety glasses and face shields

• Cut-resistant gloves

• Safety boots

• Hard hats

• Respirators, dust masks

• Ear plugs or ear muffs

• And much more.

What does OHSA say?

It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that all workers are aware of hazards and have been trained on the how and why of the PPE required to work with those hazards.

The Occupational Health & Safety Act, section 25 (Duty of Employer) states:

25 (1) An employer shall ensure that,

(a) the equipment, materials and protective devices as prescribed are provided;

(b) the equipment, materials and protective devices provided by the employer are maintained in good condition;

(c) the measures and procedures prescribed are carried out in the workplace;

(d) the equipment, materials and protective devices provided by the employer are used as prescribed

Why is PPE necessary?

PPE protects you against hazards of the job that cannot be otherwise eliminated. Your employer will have a policy and procedure on how to work safely with the identified hazard in the workplace.

Are there any valid reasons to not wear PPE? NO

I don’t have time to put on the PPE!

I don’t know where the PPE is!

I don’t want to wear it!

The PPE is uncomfortable and doesn’t fit properly!

NONE of these excuses are valid reasons not to wear your PPE.

• If time is an issue, tell your Steward or JHSC members.

• If you don't know where to find PPE, ask your Steward, JHSC member, co-workers, or supervisor.

• PPE is NOT a choice. It is a requirement of your job to wear all PPE properly.

• PPE is not 'one size fits all.' If it is uncomfortable or doesn't fit, this can be fixed. Tell your JHSC members and get it adjusted.

JHSC members should regularly ensure that all members are wearing the appropriate PPE and address any issues that arise out of wearing or using the gear.