Introduction
When elimination, substitution, engineering, and administrative controls aren’t practical or don’t fully eliminate hazards, employers must provide their employees with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and ensure it is properly worn and maintained. PPE refers to specialized gear designed to protect workers from exposure to workplace hazards. Common examples include gloves, safety footwear and eye protection, hearing protection devices like earplugs and earmuffs, hard hats, respirators, and protective clothing such as full-body suits.
It’s important to remember that PPE is the last line of defense in hazard control—not the first. While some employers may view PPE as a complete solution, it should complement other safety measures rather than replace them.
This course offers an overview of PPE concepts and practices based on OSH Center’s regulations found in 29 CFR 1910, Subpart I: Personal Protective Equipment for general industry. Note that this course does not cover every hazard or PPE requirement specific to all workplaces.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
| ID | Objective |
|---|---|
| TO 1.0 | Achieve a minimum score of 70% on the final course assessment. |
| LO 1.1.1 | Explain the general responsibilities of employers and employees regarding PPE use. |
| LO 1.1.2 | Describe employer duties for selecting and providing appropriate PPE. |
| LO 1.1.3 | Explain the purpose of hazard assessments and the process for conducting them. |
| LO 1.1.4 | Discuss the key requirements for effective PPE training programs. |
| LO 1.1.5 | Identify different types of eye and face protection and their uses. |
| LO 1.1.6 | Describe basic requirements for respiratory protection. |
| LO 1.1.7 | Differentiate between air-purifying respirators and atmosphere-supplying respirators. |
| LO 1.2.1 | Summarize types of head protection and their intended purposes. |
| LO 1.2.2 | Discuss types of hand protection with examples of their application. |
| LO 1.2.3 | Discuss types of foot protection with examples of their uses. |
| LO 1.2.4 | Provide examples of electrical protective equipment and describe inspection requirements. |
| LO 1.2.5 | Explain the differences between sound and noise. |
| LO 1.2.6 | Describe the elements of an effective hearing conservation program. |
| LO 1.2.7 | Identify the four common types of hearing protectors and their proper use. |
Key:
- TO – Terminal Objective
- LO – Learning Objective