Whats the story on Personal protective equipment (ppe)

Theres still quite a bit of misunderstanding about PPE. I trust the following helps to clarify.
The definition of PPE is anything used or worn by a person (including clothing) to minimise risks to the person’s health and safety. This may include respiratory protective equipment, hearing protection, eye protection, protective clothing, and safety harness systems.
 
Duty of the worker under regulations:

• The worker must wear or use the PPE in accordance with any information, training or reasonable instruction provided by the business owner
• The worker must not intentionally misuse or damage the PPE
• The worker must inform the business owner of any damage to, defect in, or need to clean or decontaminate any of the PPE that the worker becomes aware of

A worker who contravenes this regulation commits an offence and is liable on conviction to be fined.
 
Duty of the Business owner (PCBU):

• There is a general duty under Health and Safety Regulations for the business owner to provide PPE for employees (unless the employee voluntarily chooses to provide their own PPE, with employer approval)
• The business owner cannot pass on the cost of providing PPE to employees and they can not make it a condition of employment that employees provide their own PPE
• The business owner must ensure the PPE is fit for purpose (fits the worker correctly etc) and that it is always in good working condition.
• If changing PPE type a business owner must discuss/engage with employees
• The business owner must supply others (such as visitors) with PPE and provide instruction on how to use it

 
There are various fines that can be imposed on the business owner for non-compliance.
One of the difficulties for the business owner is keeping a track of PPE - how often it should be checked and replaced etc.
We have a system to help you with this. Don’t hesitate to be in touch to discuss.