PPE Selection Guide: Choosing Personal Protective Equipment
This PPE selection guide explains how to connect personal protective equipment with identified hazards, required protection, user needs and the conditions in which equipment will actually be used.
Start With the Hazard, Not the PPE
Identify the hazard and assess whether exposure can be eliminated or reduced through higher-order controls before relying on personal protective equipment.
Determine the Protection Required
Select PPE designed for the type and level of exposure involved. Relevant specifications, manufacturer information and applicable standards should inform selection.
Suitability
Match protection to the identified hazard and work conditions.
Fit
Ensure equipment can fit and function appropriately for the intended user.
Compatibility
Check that multiple items can be worn together without compromising protection.
Consider the Work Environment
Visibility, communication, mobility, temperature, task duration and other factors can affect whether PPE remains suitable throughout the work.
Train Users and Maintain Equipment
Users should understand relevant limitations, correct use, inspection, care and replacement requirements. Damaged or unsuitable PPE should not remain in service.
