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PPE is anything used or worn by a worker to assist to reduce health and safety risks.
PPE is important but shouldn't be relied on as the only way to address WHS risks. For more information on how to manage WHS risks, please refer to the hierarchy of controls page.
Examples of PPE include:
- Hard hats
- Earplugs
- Gloves
- Goggles
- Respirators
- Sunscreen
- Safety harnesses
- Safety boots
- High-visibility clothing
Clothing and uniforms that are not for personal protection are not PPE.
As the PCBU, you must:
- give workers PPE if they need it unless the PPE has been provided by another PCBU - workers can be given PPE, or be provided with an allowance to purchase PPE.
- select PPE that is reasonably comfortable and suitable for the worker and the task.
- provide information, training and instructions to workers and people visiting your workplace about how to use and maintain PPE.
- take reasonable steps to address any issues workers may have with their PPE.
- guide workers and others (such as visitors) in how to use, clean and store PPE properly.
- periodically assess whether the PPE is and continues to be effective.
- put up signs about using PPE.
Labour hire and host PCBUs
As a PCBU, you must provide PPE to workers, unless their labour hire company or agency already gave it to them. Workers must use their PPE as instructed by their PCBU.
