The aim of the Personal Protective Equipment Policy is to safeguard employees by providing guidelines on the proper use, maintenance, and selection of personal protective equipment (PPE). It seeks to reduce workplace injury or illness risks by ensuring employees have appropriate PPE for their tasks and environments. The policy also details the responsibilities of employers and employees in complying with PPE requirements and maintaining a safe workplace.
The PPE Guidance was updated to ensure Somerset Council’s continued compliance with evolving legislation and best practice. Key points include:
- The Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022 extend the duty to provide suitable PPE free of charge to both employees and limb (b) workers (those with more casual or irregular work arrangements) which means employers must ensure that all eligible workers, including limb (b), receive, use, and are trained in the correct PPE for their role.
- PPE must be appropriate for the risk, fit the wearer, be compatible with other equipment, and consider the health and needs of the user.
- If suitable PPE cannot be sourced, managers must seek specialist advice from the Health and Safety Service.
Hierarchy of Controls
- PPE remains the last resort in the hierarchy of controls.
- Engineering controls and safe systems of work must be prioritised before resorting to PPE.
Actions for Managers and Employees
- Review the updated guidance and ensure all risk assessments reference the new requirements.
- Use the updated PPE Manager’s Checklist (Form F13) to record suitability assessments for all PPE issued.
- Arrange and record training for all staff and limb (b) workers who require PPE.
- Ensure only compliant, CE-marked PPE is purchased and issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
The guidance includes a FAQ section addressing religious and medical exemptions, sharing of PPE, and the importance of checking understanding during training.
Learn more:
Personal protective equipment (PPE) at work
HSE Selecting protective gloves for work with chemicals
