PPE - 14.02.2022

Is a “help yourself” system for PPE a good idea?

Well it’s easy…

Having a system of PPE provision where the onus is on staff might seem like a good plan. After all, managers are not burdened with making sure staff are comfortable in their boots etc., so complaints should be few and far between. However, although it’s a very common way of doing things, having a “help yourself” policy for PPE provision doesn’t tick all the legal boxes.

What are the requirements?

Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 employers are required to provide PPE where there are hazards which cannot be effectively controlled by other means. For example, if you have staff working in a warehouse moving goods, you’ll try to organise the work so that injury is avoided, but you’ll need to provide safety footwear in case something gets dropped or a foot is run over.

Does the item perform as needed?

By law, once you’ve determined that PPE is required to be worn, there are a number of steps you must take. The first priority is to find products which serve the purpose you’re looking for. They will need to: (1) be manufactured to relevant standards, and (2) reduce the risk in question. On this second point, if for example, you’re purchasing respiratory protection, there are different grades, some that filter out particles, and others gases or vapours, and many more choices. Even in the gloves category of PPE there’s a vast array of options. They can protect against chemicals, physical hazards, heat, cold, knives, etc.

Tip. Identify products from reputable suppliers which give the type and level of protection described in your risk assessment. If you’re unsure of your requirements, a specialist PPE company should be able to help.

CE marks

One result of leaving the European Union is that PPE on the shelves will transition from being CE marked to UKCA marked. These marks show that a product meets relevant technical standards. After 31 December 2022 products placed on the market in Great Britain will need to have a UKCA mark.

Tip. As a consumer you will continue to find PPE with only a CE mark, i.e. no UKCA mark, after 1 January 2023.

In practice

Once you’ve chosen products which meet your technical needs, you should consider practicalities including comfort, fit and compatibility with other PPE items worn.

Tip. Take into account any special requirements such as for smaller/larger sizes, prescription eyewear, or to account for health conditions. Check out options for women’s PPE. The range of items has increased enormously in recent years.

Tip. Unless your assessment is simple and obvious, make a record of your decision-making process. (see The next step ).

Tip. Ask workers to sign for all items of PPE to act as a record of issue (see The next step ).

For a PPE assessment form and a PPE issue record, visit https://www.tips-and-advice.co.uk , Download Zone , year 20, issue 11.