March 4, 2025
Construction sites are full of hazards, from falling debris to airborne toxins. While eliminating risks is the ultimate goal, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is the last line of defense when other safety measures aren’t enough.
Employers must conduct a Written Hazard Assessment to identify potential dangers and determine the appropriate PPE. Most PPE should be provided at no cost, must meet OSHA standards, and requires proper employee training. Employers must also inspect, maintain, and replace damaged PPE to keep workers protected.
Workers must wear PPE correctly, inspect it regularly, and report any issues immediately. Neglecting PPE maintenance can weaken its effectiveness, putting workers at risk.
Tip: Never modify PPE like hard hats or respirators, alterations can compromise safety.
Hard hats protect against falling objects and electrical hazards. ANSI-approved hard hats provide impact resistance, and some models offer electrical insulation.
Pro Tip: If your hard hat has cracks or dents, replace it immediately.
Safety glasses or goggles shield against debris, chemicals, and radiation. OSHA mandates side protection and prescription compatibility when needed.
Pro Tip: Check for ANSI-compliant markings to ensure proper safety standards.
Construction sites are loud, and consistent noise exposure can cause permanent hearing loss. OSHA requires earplugs or earmuffs in high-decibel environments.
Silica dust, asbestos, and toxic fumes pose serious health risks. Employers must provide NIOSH-certified respirators and conduct annual fit tests.
Pro Tip: Store respirators in a sealed container when not in use to prevent contamination.
Falls are a leading cause of workplace injuries. Safety harnesses, lifelines, and lanyards should be used at six feet or more above ground. OSHA requires fall arrest systems to withstand at least 5,000 pounds of force.
Pro Tip: Inspect all straps and anchor points before every use.
Steel-toed boots protect against falling objects, while slip-resistant soles prevent workplace falls.
Gloves, coveralls, and arm guards protect against heat, chemicals, and abrasions. Select materials suited for specific hazards, Kevlar for cuts, neoprene for chemicals.
Workers near or over water should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Inspect buoyancy regularly and fasten them properly.
PPE isn’t optional in construction, it’s a necessity. Following safety standards and maintaining gear saves lives, reduces accidents, and ensures compliance.
From hard hats to fall arrest systems, every piece of PPE plays a critical role in worker safety. Employees must wear it properly, and employers must provide and maintain it.
This course covers the basics of PPE, but there’s more to learn. For a deeper dive into selecting, using, and maintaining PPE effectively, enroll in our Construction Safety: PPE Selection and Requirements Training Course.
