The Definition of PPE Hazard Assessment

Definition of PPE Hazard Assessment

A PPE hazard assessment is a systematic review of the workplace to identify hazards that require personal protective equipment and to select PPE that protects against them. OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132(d) requires employers to assess the workplace, select appropriate PPE, communicate the selection to affected workers and certify the assessment in writing. The written certification must identify the workplace evaluated, the person certifying it and the date.

The assessment typically walks through each task and area looking for impact, penetration, compression, chemical, heat, cold, light radiation, electrical, noise, falling object and sharp object hazards, then matches each hazard to specific PPE for the eyes, face, head, hands, feet and body.

Key Facts About PPE Hazard Assessments

• PPE is the last line of defense in the hierarchy of controls; the assessment should first ask whether hazards can be eliminated or engineered out.
• Employers must generally provide required PPE at no cost to employees.
• Workers must be trained on when PPE is needed and how to wear, adjust, maintain and dispose of it.
• Respiratory protection and hearing protection have their own program requirements beyond the PPE assessment.
• Assessments should be updated when processes, equipment or materials change.

Example of a PPE Hazard Assessment

A maintenance supervisor assesses a plant's battery charging area. She identifies acid splash, hydrogen gas and electrical hazards, selects chemical splash goggles, a face shield, acid-resistant gloves and an apron, and confirms the eyewash station is within 10 seconds' reach before signing the certification.

How to Conduct a PPE Hazard Assessment

1. Walk through each work area and task, and review injury records and job hazard analyses.
2. List hazards by type and body part affected.
3. Consider other controls before relying on PPE.
4. Select PPE rated for each hazard, such as ANSI Z87.1 eyewear.
5. Document and certify the assessment, train workers and review it when conditions change.

Related Terms

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Hierarchy of Controls
• Eye Protection
• Foot Protection
• Hazard Identification

Frequently Asked Questions: PPE Hazard Assessment

Does a PPE hazard assessment have to be written?

Yes. OSHA requires a written certification that the assessment was done, including the workplace evaluated, the date and the name of the person certifying it.

How often should a PPE hazard assessment be updated?

OSHA doesn't set a fixed interval, but the assessment should be reviewed whenever tasks, equipment, materials or injury trends change. Many employers review it annually.

Who can perform a PPE hazard assessment?

Anyone knowledgeable about the work and its hazards, often a safety professional or supervisor, ideally with input from the workers who do the job.