We're sorry, but OSHAcademy doesn't work properly without JavaScript enabled. Please turn on JavaScript or install a browser that supports Javascript.

178 Healthcare: Personal Protective Equipment
Skip to main content

More Employer Responsibilities

The following are additional employer responsibilities regarding PPE use:

Employers must provide training before employees begin using PPE.
  • Employers must provide PPE (e.g., gloves, goggles, and splash aprons) when employees are exposed to hazards such as cleaning detergents, chemicals, and hazardous drugs. 29 CFR 1910.132(a)
  • Medical services and first aid may be required where the eyes or body of any person may be exposed to injurious corrosive materials. Suitable facilities for quick drenching or flushing of the eyes and body must be provided within the work area for immediate emergency use. 29 CFR 1910.151(c)
  • Employers must select and require employees to use appropriate hand protection when the hands are exposed to hazards such as those from skin absorption of harmful substances; severe cuts or lacerations; severe abrasions; punctures; chemical burns; thermal burns; and harmful temperature extremes. 29 CFR 1910.138(a)
  • The employer must inform employees about the types, proper use, location, removal, handling, decontamination, and disposal of personal protective equipment. 29 CFR 1910.1030(g)(2)(vii)(G)

Training

Employers must provide training before employees begin using PPE. This training should include:

  • why PPE is necessary
  • when PPE is necessary
  • what kind of PPE is necessary
  • how to properly put it on, adjust, wear, and take PPE off
  • PPE limitations
  • proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal of the PPE

Proper Fit

All personal protective equipment should be safely designed and constructed and should be maintained in a clean and reliable fashion. It should fit comfortably, encouraging worker use. If the personal protective equipment does not fit properly, it can make the difference between being safely covered or dangerously exposed.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-2. Who is required to provide all employees with appropriate PPE?