PPE: Personal Protective Equipment Toolbox Talk
PPE is the last line of defence. It does not remove the hazard, it just stands between you and it, so it only works if you wear it properly every time. The right gear, in good condition, fitted right.
Takes about 5 minutes.
Key points to read out
- Know the site minimum: usually hard hat, safety boots, high visibility clothing, eye protection and gloves.
- Check your gear before each shift. Cracked hats, split boots and torn gloves get replaced.
- Replace a hard hat after any serious hit, even if it looks fine, and when it reaches the manufacturer's replacement date.
- Do not paint, drill or modify your hard hat. It weakens the shell.
- Respirators only work with a good seal. Tight fitting masks need a fit test and a clean shave.
- Use task specific PPE when the job needs it: face shields for grinding, chemical gloves for solvents, harnesses for heights.
- Your employer must pay for most required PPE, with limited exceptions such as ordinary safety toe boots.
- Store PPE clean and dry, out of the sun. UV and chemicals break down plastics and webbing.
- If your PPE does not fit or gets in the way of the job, tell your supervisor so we can sort it out.
Questions to ask the crew
- What PPE is required on this site?
- Which jobs today need extra PPE?
- When does your hard hat need replacing?
- Is anyone's gear damaged or not fitting right?
Reference: 29 CFR 1926 Subpart E (Personal Protective and Life Saving Equipment)
Sign-in sheet
Print this page or download the sign-in sheet. Or run it in the app and the crew signs on the phone.
| Name | Company | Signature |
|---|---|---|
Get it signed
Run this talk in the app. The crew signs on your phone and you get a dated attendance record as a PDF.