This Resource Centre provides general guidance only. Always follow the equipment manufacturer’s instructions, the product technical data sheet and your site’s safe system of work. Isolate stored energy before maintenance. For safety-critical, regulated or uncertain applications, ask a competent engineer or the product manufacturer to confirm the specification.
Begin with a suitable and sufficient risk assessment. Identify the hazard, route of exposure, likely severity, duration and who may be affected. First consider elimination, substitution, guarding, extraction, isolation and safe working methods. Use PPE for the residual risk.
Selection questions
- What exact hazard and exposure level must it protect against?
- Does the product carry the required conformity marking and protection rating?
- Is it suitable for the wearer’s size, health and work activity?
- Can the wearer see, hear, communicate and move safely?
- Does it remain effective with the other PPE being worn?
- How will it be cleaned, inspected, stored and replaced?
- Has the wearer received instruction, training and supervision?
Provide a choice of suitable models where individual fit matters. A product that is uncomfortable or interferes with the task is less likely to be worn correctly.
Need help sourcing the item?
Send the manufacturer, reference, photographs and operating details.