Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards. Using PPE requires training; it is important to note that PPE does not completely eliminate a hazard. If the equipment fails or is improperly fitted or used, exposure to the hazard will occur.

Employers must provide PPE when required by OSHA standards to protect workers' safety and health. PPE is specified in 29 CFR 1910.132. The standard states that PPE for the eyes, face, head, and extremities, including protective clothing, must be provided by employers, used by employees, and maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition whenever it is necessary to protect against a hazard.

However, under 29 CFR 1910.132(h)(4), employers are exempt from providing workers with ordinary clothing used solely for protection from weather, such as winter coats, jackets, gloves, parkas, rubber boots, hats, and raincoats. Regardless of this, many employers provide their workers with winter weather gear, such as winter coats and gloves.

To learn more about Cold Stress Safety visit our Cold Stress, Illness & Injury Safety Online Training web page.