AIHA Guideline 5 — 2005

Guideline for the Development of

Personal Protective Equipment Programs
for Small Business Owners

Approval Date: April 1, 2005

American Industrial Hygiene Association
 About this Document
AIHA guidelines are developed through a consensus process that involves review by internal AIHA technical committees
and external review by outside experts. Through this process, AIHA brings together volunteers with varied backgrounds and
viewpoints. The intent of this document is to provide guidance to the practicing Occupational, Environmental Health and
Safety (OEHS) professional. This document is not a standard.

Use of this document is completely voluntary. Existence of this document does not in any respect preclude anyone—
whether he or she has participated in the development process or not—from manufacturing, marketing, purchasing, or
using products, processors, or procedures not conforming to this guideline.

Copyright 2005 by the American Industrial Hygiene Association. All rights reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced
in any form, by Photostat, microfilm, retrieval system, or by any means, without prior permission from the publisher.

ISBN: 1-93150461-X
Stock Number: EPCG05-688

American Industrial Hygiene Association

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Fairfax, VA 22031
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 Foreword

In 1994, the U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) published several standards related to Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE) in the workplace.(1) Employers, falling under the jurisdiction of OSHA, were required to assess
their workplaces for hazards in seven suggested categories, determine what PPE would provide protection for their
employees, and make specific recommendations for use based on technical information such as penetration, permeation,
and degradation.

As a technical committee of the American Industrial Hygiene Association, the Protective Clothing and Equipment
Committee saw the opportunity to capture the knowledge gained from large companies implementing the standard over the
last 10 years and share it with persons working in small businesses.

The authors of this guideline recognize that there are many small employers who may not have the resources available to
independently develop protective equipment programs for their workers. It is intended to provide information to help prevent
the exposure of employees to potentially harmful substances.

(1)1910.132 General Requirements; 1910.133 Eye and Face Protection; 1910.135 Head Protection; 1910.136 Foot
Protection; and 1910.138 Hand Protection

iii
 Table of Contents

Foreword .......................................................................................................................................................................iii
Contributing Authors....................................................................................................................................................v

1. Purpose ...................................................................................................................................................................1
2. Scope ......................................................................................................................................................................1
3. Definitions and Abbreviations ..............................................................................................................................1
4. Significance and Uses ...........................................................................................................................................1
5. Program Requirements .........................................................................................................................................2
5.1 Written Program..............................................................................................................................................2
5.2 Hazard Assessment, Certification, and PPE Selection ..................................................................................2
5.3 Employee Training...........................................................................................................................................3
5.4 Payment for Protective Clothing and Equipment (employer vs. employee-owned PPE) ................................4
5.5 Inspection, Storage, and Maintenance ...........................................................................................................4
5.6 Applicable Standards ......................................................................................................................................5
6. Specialty PPE .........................................................................................................................................................5
7. Summary.................................................................................................................................................................5
8. Additional Resources ............................................................................................................................................6

Appendix A: Example of Small Business PPE Program ..............................................................................................7

Appendix B: PPE Hazard Assessment ........................................................................................................................9
Appendix C: Hazard Assessment Certification...........................................................................................................11
 Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for
Small Business Owners
1. Purpose
The purpose of this guideline is to provide the
fundamentals for development of personal protective
equipment (PPE) programs for small business owners.
Examples of successful PPE programs are also provided.
The guidance provided in this document is also
intended to provide assistance in the development of
programs, and selection of clothing and equipment used
for the purpose of protecting employees from physical
and chemical hazards encountered in a variety of
occupational settings.
This guideline is intended for use by small business
owners, human resource managers, or other employees
who have responsibilities for developing or implementing
safety and health programs. It may also be useful for
industrial hygienists, safety professionals, and others
whose responsibilities include assuring a safe and
healthful workplace.
Examples provided in the Appendices are general in
nature, but the concepts will be useful in virtually all
facilities.
The guideline has been developed based on
personal protective equipment regulations, but also to
include best management practices currently being used
in the field.
2. Scope
This guide applies to the development of PPE programs
in accordance with regulation and best practices
commonly used in a variety of industries. While most of
the material is specific to U.S. OSHA regulations, some
reference is made to other jurisdictions for comparison.
This publication is not intended as a comprehensive
guide to regulatory compliance, and nor is it designed to
address, in detail, topics such as PPE selection,
respiratory protection, electrical protective equipment, fall
protection equipment, personal flotation devices, and
hearing protection programs. Although these topics are
briefly addressed, the user is encouraged to review
applicable standards and guidelines for detailed
information on these topics.
While there are instances where protective clothing
and equipment is worn for the purpose of protecting the
product or process (such as clean rooms for electronics
production and some food processing areas), this guide
does not address those issues except where certain
sizing, inspection, and maintenance issues may apply.
This guideline does not address, in detail, highly
specialized environments such as biohazard research
laboratories, nuclear facilities, fire fighting, and hazardous
materials (HazMat) response.
3. Definitions & Abbreviations
For the purposes of this guideline document, the following
terms and definitions apply. The Glossary of Occupational
Hygiene Terms should be referenced for any terms not
defined in this section.
U.S. OSHA – United States Occupational Safety and
Health Administration
PPE – Personal Protective Equipment
Hazard – a source of danger (i.e., material, energy
source, or operation) with the potential to cause illness,
injury, or death to personnel, loss of material/production,
or damage to a facility or the environment.
Risk – the quantitative or qualitative expression of
possible loss that considers both the probability that a
hazard will cause harm, and the consequences of that
event.
Engineering control – mechanical or other engineered
changes to a process that are intended to minimize or
eliminate employee exposure to a hazard.
Administrative control – procedures or work practices
that are implemented to minimize or eliminate employee
exposure to a hazard.
U.K. HSE – United Kingdom Health and Safety Executive
Optical radiation (energy) – Infrared, visible, and
ultraviolet radiation (energy) as from welding arc flashes,
the sun, or lasers.
NIOSH – National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health
4. Significance & Uses
All occupational environments have hazards that may
present an injury or illness risk to employees. These
hazards include physical agents — mechanical abrasion,
flying particles (including dust), noise, heat, cold,
vibration, radiation — as well as a wide variety of
chemical substances. Some of these hazards may be no
more than a minor nuisance, while others may present a
risk of serious injury, including potential fatality.
When controlling employee exposure to hazards,
there are a variety of ways to reduce the risk, such as:
• The preferred method of controlling risk is to
eliminate the hazard from the workplace. This can
be done by eliminating unnecessary chemicals, by
using less hazardous chemicals (i.e. substitution),
and/or discontinuing certain work processes or
tasks. However, elimination of a hazard is not
always an available option.
• The next best choice is to design and install
engineering controls to reduce or eliminate
1
 Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for
Small Business Owners
1. Purpose
The purpose of this guideline is to provide the
fundamentals for development of personal protective
equipment (PPE) programs for small business owners.
Examples of successful PPE programs are also provided.
The guidance provided in this document is also
intended to provide assistance in the development of
programs, and selection of clothing and equipment used
for the purpose of protecting employees from physical
and chemical hazards encountered in a variety of
occupational settings.
This guideline is intended for use by small business
owners, human resource managers, or other employees
who have responsibilities for developing or implementing
safety and health programs. It may also be useful for
industrial hygienists, safety professionals, and others
whose responsibilities include assuring a safe and
healthful workplace.
Examples provided in the Appendices are general in
nature, but the concepts will be useful in virtually all
facilities.
The guideline has been developed based on
personal protective equipment regulations, but also to
include best management practices currently being used
in the field.
2. Scope
This guide applies to the development of PPE programs
in accordance with regulation and best practices
commonly used in a variety of industries. While most of
the material is specific to U.S. OSHA regulations, some
reference is made to other jurisdictions for comparison.
This publication is not intended as a comprehensive
guide to regulatory compliance, and nor is it designed to
address, in detail, topics such as PPE selection,
respiratory protection, electrical protective equipment, fall
protection equipment, personal flotation devices, and
hearing protection programs. Although these topics are
briefly addressed, the user is encouraged to review
applicable standards and guidelines for detailed
information on these topics.
While there are instances where protective clothing
and equipment is worn for the purpose of protecting the
product or process (such as clean rooms for electronics
production and some food processing areas), this guide
does not address those issues except where certain
sizing, inspection, and maintenance issues may apply.
This guideline does not address, in detail, highly
specialized environments such as biohazard research
laboratories, nuclear facilities, fire fighting, and hazardous
materials (HazMat) response.
3. Definitions & Abbreviations
For the purposes of this guideline document, the following
terms and definitions apply. The Glossary of Occupational
Hygiene Terms should be referenced for any terms not
defined in this section.
U.S. OSHA – United States Occupational Safety and
Health Administration
PPE – Personal Protective Equipment
Hazard – a source of danger (i.e., material, energy
source, or operation) with the potential to cause illness,
injury, or death to personnel, loss of material/production,
or damage to a facility or the environment.
Risk – the quantitative or qualitative expression of
possible loss that considers both the probability that a
hazard will cause harm, and the consequences of that
event.
Engineering control – mechanical or other engineered
changes to a process that are intended to minimize or
eliminate employee exposure to a hazard.
Administrative control – procedures or work practices
that are implemented to minimize or eliminate employee
exposure to a hazard.
U.K. HSE – United Kingdom Health and Safety Executive
Optical radiation (energy) – Infrared, visible, and
ultraviolet radiation (energy) as from welding arc flashes,
the sun, or lasers.
NIOSH – National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health
4. Significance & Uses
All occupational environments have hazards that may
present an injury or illness risk to employees. These
hazards include physical agents — mechanical abrasion,
flying particles (including dust), noise, heat, cold,
vibration, radiation — as well as a wide variety of
chemical substances. Some of these hazards may be no
more than a minor nuisance, while others may present a
risk of serious injury, including potential fatality.
When controlling employee exposure to hazards,
there are a variety of ways to reduce the risk, such as:
• The preferred method of controlling risk is to
eliminate the hazard from the workplace. This can
be done by eliminating unnecessary chemicals, by
using less hazardous chemicals (i.e. substitution),
and/or discontinuing certain work processes or
tasks. However, elimination of a hazard is not
always an available option.
• The next best choice is to design and install
engineering controls to reduce or eliminate
1
 Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for
Small Business Owners
1. Purpose
The purpose of this guideline is to provide the
fundamentals for development of personal protective
equipment (PPE) programs for small business owners.
Examples of successful PPE programs are also provided.
The guidance provided in this document is also
intended to provide assistance in the development of
programs, and selection of clothing and equipment used
for the purpose of protecting employees from physical
and chemical hazards encountered in a variety of
occupational settings.
This guideline is intended for use by small business
owners, human resource managers, or other employees
who have responsibilities for developing or implementing
safety and health programs. It may also be useful for
industrial hygienists, safety professionals, and others
whose responsibilities include assuring a safe and
healthful workplace.
Examples provided in the Appendices are general in
nature, but the concepts will be useful in virtually all
facilities.
The guideline has been developed based on
personal protective equipment regulations, but also to
include best management practices currently being used
in the field.
2. Scope
This guide applies to the development of PPE programs
in accordance with regulation and best practices
commonly used in a variety of industries. While most of
the material is specific to U.S. OSHA regulations, some
reference is made to other jurisdictions for comparison.
This publication is not intended as a comprehensive
guide to regulatory compliance, and nor is it designed to
address, in detail, topics such as PPE selection,
respiratory protection, electrical protective equipment, fall
protection equipment, personal flotation devices, and
hearing protection programs. Although these topics are
briefly addressed, the user is encouraged to review
applicable standards and guidelines for detailed
information on these topics.
While there are instances where protective clothing
and equipment is worn for the purpose of protecting the
product or process (such as clean rooms for electronics
production and some food processing areas), this guide
does not address those issues except where certain
sizing, inspection, and maintenance issues may apply.
This guideline does not address, in detail, highly
specialized environments such as biohazard research
laboratories, nuclear facilities, fire fighting, and hazardous
materials (HazMat) response.
3. Definitions & Abbreviations
For the purposes of this guideline document, the following
terms and definitions apply. The Glossary of Occupational
Hygiene Terms should be referenced for any terms not
defined in this section.
U.S. OSHA – United States Occupational Safety and
Health Administration
PPE – Personal Protective Equipment
Hazard – a source of danger (i.e., material, energy
source, or operation) with the potential to cause illness,
injury, or death to personnel, loss of material/production,
or damage to a facility or the environment.
Risk – the quantitative or qualitative expression of
possible loss that considers both the probability that a
hazard will cause harm, and the consequences of that
event.
Engineering control – mechanical or other engineered
changes to a process that are intended to minimize or
eliminate employee exposure to a hazard.
Administrative control – procedures or work practices
that are implemented to minimize or eliminate employee
exposure to a hazard.
U.K. HSE – United Kingdom Health and Safety Executive
Optical radiation (energy) – Infrared, visible, and
ultraviolet radiation (energy) as from welding arc flashes,
the sun, or lasers.
NIOSH – National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health
4. Significance & Uses
All occupational environments have hazards that may
present an injury or illness risk to employees. These
hazards include physical agents — mechanical abrasion,
flying particles (including dust), noise, heat, cold,
vibration, radiation — as well as a wide variety of
chemical substances. Some of these hazards may be no
more than a minor nuisance, while others may present a
risk of serious injury, including potential fatality.
When controlling employee exposure to hazards,
there are a variety of ways to reduce the risk, such as:
• The preferred method of controlling risk is to
eliminate the hazard from the workplace. This can
be done by eliminating unnecessary chemicals, by
using less hazardous chemicals (i.e. substitution),
and/or discontinuing certain work processes or
tasks. However, elimination of a hazard is not
always an available option.
• The next best choice is to design and install
engineering controls to reduce or eliminate
1
 Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for
Small Business Owners
1. Purpose
The purpose of this guideline is to provide the
fundamentals for development of personal protective
equipment (PPE) programs for small business owners.
Examples of successful PPE programs are also provided.
The guidance provided in this document is also
intended to provide assistance in the development of
programs, and selection of clothing and equipment used
for the purpose of protecting employees from physical
and chemical hazards encountered in a variety of
occupational settings.
This guideline is intended for use by small business
owners, human resource managers, or other employees
who have responsibilities for developing or implementing
safety and health programs. It may also be useful for
industrial hygienists, safety professionals, and others
whose responsibilities include assuring a safe and
healthful workplace.
Examples provided in the Appendices are general in
nature, but the concepts will be useful in virtually all
facilities.
The guideline has been developed based on
personal protective equipment regulations, but also to
include best management practices currently being used
in the field.
2. Scope
This guide applies to the development of PPE programs
in accordance with regulation and best practices
commonly used in a variety of industries. While most of
the material is specific to U.S. OSHA regulations, some
reference is made to other jurisdictions for comparison.
This publication is not intended as a comprehensive
guide to regulatory compliance, and nor is it designed to
address, in detail, topics such as PPE selection,
respiratory protection, electrical protective equipment, fall
protection equipment, personal flotation devices, and
hearing protection programs. Although these topics are
briefly addressed, the user is encouraged to review
applicable standards and guidelines for detailed
information on these topics.
While there are instances where protective clothing
and equipment is worn for the purpose of protecting the
product or process (such as clean rooms for electronics
production and some food processing areas), this guide
does not address those issues except where certain
sizing, inspection, and maintenance issues may apply.
This guideline does not address, in detail, highly
specialized environments such as biohazard research
laboratories, nuclear facilities, fire fighting, and hazardous
materials (HazMat) response.
3. Definitions & Abbreviations
For the purposes of this guideline document, the following
terms and definitions apply. The Glossary of Occupational
Hygiene Terms should be referenced for any terms not
defined in this section.
U.S. OSHA – United States Occupational Safety and
Health Administration
PPE – Personal Protective Equipment
Hazard – a source of danger (i.e., material, energy
source, or operation) with the potential to cause illness,
injury, or death to personnel, loss of material/production,
or damage to a facility or the environment.
Risk – the quantitative or qualitative expression of
possible loss that considers both the probability that a
hazard will cause harm, and the consequences of that
event.
Engineering control – mechanical or other engineered
changes to a process that are intended to minimize or
eliminate employee exposure to a hazard.
Administrative control – procedures or work practices
that are implemented to minimize or eliminate employee
exposure to a hazard.
U.K. HSE – United Kingdom Health and Safety Executive
Optical radiation (energy) – Infrared, visible, and
ultraviolet radiation (energy) as from welding arc flashes,
the sun, or lasers.
NIOSH – National Institute for Occupational Safety and
Health
4. Significance & Uses
All occupational environments have hazards that may
present an injury or illness risk to employees. These
hazards include physical agents — mechanical abrasion,
flying particles (including dust), noise, heat, cold,
vibration, radiation — as well as a wide variety of
chemical substances. Some of these hazards may be no
more than a minor nuisance, while others may present a
risk of serious injury, including potential fatality.
When controlling employee exposure to hazards,
there are a variety of ways to reduce the risk, such as:
• The preferred method of controlling risk is to
eliminate the hazard from the workplace. This can
be done by eliminating unnecessary chemicals, by
using less hazardous chemicals (i.e. substitution),
and/or discontinuing certain work processes or
tasks. However, elimination of a hazard is not
always an available option.
• The next best choice is to design and install
engineering controls to reduce or eliminate
1
American Industrial Hygiene Association
employee exposure (enclosing equipment,
installing more efficient/automated equipment,
installing ventilation to remove hazardous vapors),
• Another way to reduce the risk of a hazard is to
implement administrative type control measures.
This may include limiting the amount of time an
employee can work in a certain area or changing
work practices/procedures.
In the event that safer processes or substances cannot
be used, engineering controls cannot be installed (or are
not completely effective), and administrative controls
(procedures and work practices) do not fully control
exposures, personal protective equipment (PPE) must
be used to prevent or minimize employee exposure. In
some cases, adequate control measures have been
installed, but PPE may be preferred as an additional
precaution. Using PPE alone as a control is the most
inefficient and least effective method available, but is
often the most commonly used. Application of the
principles and practices described in this guideline can
improve the effectiveness of any PPE that is used, but is
not a substitute for proper hazard assessment (Sec.5.2),
and implementation of better, more efficient control
methods. (Protective clothing and equipment is the
last line of defense, and should be used as a last
resort, not the only method of protection.)
Common hazards that may require the use of PPE
include:
• Paints, coatings, and thinners
• Hot or cold objects
• Material handling
• Cleaning chemicals
• Degreasers
• Bloodborne pathogens
• Metal working operations (mills, lathes, drill
presses, punch presses, welding and cutting, open
surface tanks, etc.)
• Overhead or falling objects
• Woodworking
• Pesticides and herbicides
• Laboratory work (research, and routine testing)
Note: no attempt has been made to identify all the
hazards that may be encountered in any given
occupational environment.
Requirements for PPE programs vary significantly by
country and may even be different from state to state or
province to province. While some reference is made to
United States, Canadian, and United Kingdom
regulations, the emphasis of this guide will be
development of an effective program for employee
protection. Consult with the appropriate authorities for
determination of compliance with local and national
regulations.
2
5. Program Requirements
5.1 Written Program
While some regulatory agencies do not require formal
written programs, employers are required to comply with
a variety of regulations regarding the selection and use of
PPE. These programs provide the basis for showing
management commitment, outlining the requirements
and expectations, providing standardized procedures for
an employer to use, and preventing unnecessary
confusion in the application of regulations. A written
program should define responsibilities and include
procedures for:
• conducting hazard assessments
• selection of PPE
• fitting
• use (how, when, and where)
• inspection (methods and frequency)
• cleaning and maintenance of PPE
• employee training
• periodic review of the program
The requirements of the U.S. OSHA respirator standard,
29 CFR 1910.134, parallel the preceding bullets, but
require that a respirator program must be overseen by a
suitably trained “Respirator Program Administrator”.
When conducting the periodic (e.g., annual) review of
the PPE program, the employer should assess current
exposure control measures to ensure their continued
effectiveness (and determine if new or improved
technology makes engineering controls available),
determine the need for further control, and ensure the
effectiveness of employee training (and evaluate the need
for refresher training).
Appendix A contains an example of a basic written
program that may be used as a guide for development of
a workplace-specific program.
5.2 Hazard Assessment, Certification, and
PPE Selection
Employers of all sizes, in nearly all jurisdictions, are
required to perform some type of hazard assessment.
Before selecting any type of PPE for employee protection,
the employer must first determine what hazards exist in
the workplace. Only after this step has been made can
the appropriate protective equipment be determined for
those hazards. A hazard assessment may be as simple
as conducting a walkthrough inspection of the workplace,
listing the hazards found, and the PPE necessary to
protect employees. The hazard assessment may also
consider the control measures currently in place and the
actual potential for employee exposure.
For instance, a machine shop may include falling
objects (from overhead hoists or cranes), flying particles
(from mills, lathes, grinders, etc.), welding fumes,
metalworking fluids, sharp edges, and excessive noise.
American Industrial Hygiene Association
employee exposure (enclosing equipment,
installing more efficient/automated equipment,
installing ventilation to remove hazardous vapors),
• Another way to reduce the risk of a hazard is to
implement administrative type control measures.
This may include limiting the amount of time an
employee can work in a certain area or changing
work practices/procedures.
In the event that safer processes or substances cannot
be used, engineering controls cannot be installed (or are
not completely effective), and administrative controls
(procedures and work practices) do not fully control
exposures, personal protective equipment (PPE) must
be used to prevent or minimize employee exposure. In
some cases, adequate control measures have been
installed, but PPE may be preferred as an additional
precaution. Using PPE alone as a control is the most
inefficient and least effective method available, but is
often the most commonly used. Application of the
principles and practices described in this guideline can
improve the effectiveness of any PPE that is used, but is
not a substitute for proper hazard assessment (Sec.5.2),
and implementation of better, more efficient control
methods. (Protective clothing and equipment is the
last line of defense, and should be used as a last
resort, not the only method of protection.)
Common hazards that may require the use of PPE
include:
• Paints, coatings, and thinners
• Hot or cold objects
• Material handling
• Cleaning chemicals
• Degreasers
• Bloodborne pathogens
• Metal working operations (mills, lathes, drill
presses, punch presses, welding and cutting, open
surface tanks, etc.)
• Overhead or falling objects
• Woodworking
• Pesticides and herbicides
• Laboratory work (research, and routine testing)
Note: no attempt has been made to identify all the
hazards that may be encountered in any given
occupational environment.
Requirements for PPE programs vary significantly by
country and may even be different from state to state or
province to province. While some reference is made to
United States, Canadian, and United Kingdom
regulations, the emphasis of this guide will be
development of an effective program for employee
protection. Consult with the appropriate authorities for
determination of compliance with local and national
regulations.
2
5. Program Requirements
5.1 Written Program
While some regulatory agencies do not require formal
written programs, employers are required to comply with
a variety of regulations regarding the selection and use of
PPE. These programs provide the basis for showing
management commitment, outlining the requirements
and expectations, providing standardized procedures for
an employer to use, and preventing unnecessary
confusion in the application of regulations. A written
program should define responsibilities and include
procedures for:
• conducting hazard assessments
• selection of PPE
• fitting
• use (how, when, and where)
• inspection (methods and frequency)
• cleaning and maintenance of PPE
• employee training
• periodic review of the program
The requirements of the U.S. OSHA respirator standard,
29 CFR 1910.134, parallel the preceding bullets, but
require that a respirator program must be overseen by a
suitably trained “Respirator Program Administrator”.
When conducting the periodic (e.g., annual) review of
the PPE program, the employer should assess current
exposure control measures to ensure their continued
effectiveness (and determine if new or improved
technology makes engineering controls available),
determine the need for further control, and ensure the
effectiveness of employee training (and evaluate the need
for refresher training).
Appendix A contains an example of a basic written
program that may be used as a guide for development of
a workplace-specific program.
5.2 Hazard Assessment, Certification, and
PPE Selection
Employers of all sizes, in nearly all jurisdictions, are
required to perform some type of hazard assessment.
Before selecting any type of PPE for employee protection,
the employer must first determine what hazards exist in
the workplace. Only after this step has been made can
the appropriate protective equipment be determined for
those hazards. A hazard assessment may be as simple
as conducting a walkthrough inspection of the workplace,
listing the hazards found, and the PPE necessary to
protect employees. The hazard assessment may also
consider the control measures currently in place and the
actual potential for employee exposure.
For instance, a machine shop may include falling
objects (from overhead hoists or cranes), flying particles
(from mills, lathes, grinders, etc.), welding fumes,
metalworking fluids, sharp edges, and excessive noise.
 Guideline for the Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for Small Business Owners
Creating a list of hazards and existing control measures
may reveal a need to provide employees with hard hats,
safety glasses and face shields, welding goggles,
respirators, gloves, and hearing protection. The actual
complexity of the hazard assessment will depend on the
number of employees, the variety of hazards in the
workplace, and the size of the operation.
Regardless of the complexity of the hazard
assessment conducted, the selection of PPE must be
based on the type and the severity of the hazard and the
actual exposure of the employees. The selection of heavy-
duty, chemical resistant gloves may be appropriate when
handling a highly corrosive material, but would be
inappropriate for occasional contact with small quantities
of mildly irritating solvents. Requiring the use of overly
protective equipment can be costly, decrease the
efficiency of employees, and may even create additional
hazards. The protective equipment selected must match
the hazard and degree of exposure. (The combination of
hazard and exposure is generally referred to as the risk.)
To assist in the initial selection of protective clothing
materials for specific chemical challenges on the job,
breakthrough (permeation and penetration) performance
data should be used. Performance data is summarized in
references such as the Quick Selection Guide to Chemical
Protective Clothing, 4th edition by Krister Forsberg and
S.Z. Mansdorf. Specific test data from PPE manufacturers
should also be used whenever available. It is important to
recognize that similar fabrics and polymers from different
manufacturers may not perform the same. Selection of
these materials must include consideration of available
test data, and if no data is available, consideration must be
given to having PPE evaluated by professional, qualified
testing laboratories. In all cases, the physical resistance to
cuts, tears, and punctures, as well as dexterity
requirements of the job, need to be considered when
selecting protective garments. Additional detailed
guidance on selection of these items may be obtained
from OSHA, NIOSH, and PPE manufacturers.
PPE should not be selected without input from the
users and their supervisors. Users should have an
opportunity to try on the PPE and provide feedback. It
may be necessary to use equivalent PPE from different
manufacturers to achieve the best fit and comfort for the
affected employees. Ill-fitting and uncomfortable PPE
must not be used, since it will not provide the necessary
protection, and may even create a hazardous condition
leading to increased risk of injury or illness.
Hazard assessments should be documented in a
manner that is easy for employees to understand, is
easily accessible to the employees, and is relatively easy
to update and maintain. A simple table showing the
various departments, hazards encountered for each task,
and the PPE required for the task is often sufficient.
Appendix B shows an example of a simple hazard
assessment matrix. The exact types of PPE identified in
Appendix B may not be those that would apply to the
operations at your business because the hazards your
employees are exposed to and the severity of their
exposures will probably be different. A more detailed
example of a hazard assessment, including details of the
recommended PPE and rationale for selection can be
found in Chemical Protective Clothing, 2nd edition (also
published by AIHA).
Under U.S. OSHA regulation, the hazard assessment
itself does not have to be documented, but the employer
is required to certify, in writing, that the assessment has
been completed. This means that even if a list of required
PPE is not maintained, the employer must provide a
signed statement that an assessment of all workplace
hazards has been completed. Appendix C contains an
example of a Certification of Hazard Assessment
(Appendices B and C also contain the necessary
elements to serve as a Hazard Assessment Certification
according to U.S. OSHA regulation).
5.3 Employee Training
Some regulations (and good general practice), require
training for employees prior to using PPE, either as a
required part of an assigned task, or for voluntary use.
Employees must demonstrate an understanding of the
training received, and the need for and proper use of PPE
prior to performing a task in a work area requiring the use
of PPE. At no time should untrained employees, or those
who fail to understand the training, be assigned to, or
allowed to perform a task requiring such PPE.
Training should include:
• Requirements of PPE use (when and where it is
required)
• Proper fitting, donning, and doffing
• Limitations of the PPE, and
• Proper inspection and maintenance
In some cases, this training may be informal (such as a
simple one-on-one session with the foreman on the shop
floor), or it may be as formal as a classroom setting with
written and practical exams.
Regardless of the training method used, all training
sessions should be documented in some manner. If
informal training is conducted, documentation may be as
simple as a dated statement kept on file, which includes
the topics covered, and names of the trainer and trainees.
In cases of more formal, classroom training, a complete
outline of the topics covered should be maintained, along
with the results of exams that were administered. These
training records must be kept in a readily accessible place
to provide for inspection or auditing, and ease of
maintenance, as necessary.
While some items of PPE are simple and easy to use,
and formal training may seem unnecessary, there are
fitting requirements, limitations, and inspection/
maintenance issues that must be addressed for every
item. Every employee should be provided the opportunity
3
American Industrial Hygiene Association
to learn the requirements for using all PPE including
where it is required, what tasks require PPE, and any
other expectations/work rules surrounding the use of
protective equipment. For example, while the use of
safety glasses seems like a straightforward issue, with
minimal training required, there are some concerns that
must be addressed. There are a wide variety of glasses
available, and many of them are adjustable (to provide a
proper fit). Employees must be trained in the proper
methods for adjusting the glasses to obtain the proper fit
(and therefore, proper protection). Glasses must be
inspected each time they are used (for cracks, pits, chips,
scratches in the lens, missing parts, and deformation of
the frames), and they should only be cleaned with soap
and water (solvents can damage the frames and lenses).
Likewise, hard hats and safety shoes seem to be
straightforward items, but there are similar issues that
must be addressed before employees are allowed to work
in areas or perform tasks where these items are required.
If proper training is not provided, and employees are
not aware of the proper methods for fitting and
maintaining their PPE, they will not receive the expected
level of protection, and may be at greater risk of injury.
Whenever possible, employee training sessions
should include time to allow the employee to handle the
various types of PPE they will be required to use, and
make adjustments for personal fit. The employer should
also collect various items of PPE that have failed
inspection and use them to demonstrate proper inspection
methods, and the recognition of common failures.
In addition to initial training (prior to beginning work
that requires the use of PPE), employees must also
receive refresher training. This training may be conducted
on a regularly scheduled basis, or as needed. (According
to U.S. OSHA regulation for respiratory protection,
retraining and fit testing for respirators is required at least
annually.) Regardless of the scheduled training
frequency, supervisors, foremen, and managers must
always observe employees using PPE and be aware of
signs, which indicate a need for re-training. Such signs
may include an increased frequency of injuries which the
PPE should be preventing, employees not wearing PPE
properly, employees using worn or broken PPE, or
employees working in areas or performing tasks without
the proper PPE.
5.4 Payment for Protective Clothing &
Equipment (employer vs. employee owned
PPE)
Because PPE is often required to perform a task
safely, many employers furnish the necessary items to
their employees as an investment in the safe operation of
the business. By furnishing the necessary equipment for
employees, the employer can maintain control over the
quality of the equipment provided, and ensure a steady
supply is readily available.
4
However, because some items that may be used off
the job could also be classified as PPE, such as steel toe
shoes, employers may require employees to provide their
own PPE.
In some cases, an employer will require new
employees to pay for certain PPE, pending completion of
a probationary period. Upon successful completion of the
probationary period the employee may be reimbursed for
the cost of the PPE. (Note: this practice may not be
allowed in jurisdictions where employers are required to
provide PPE at no cost to employees, such as the U.S.)
Often, as a cost control measure, an employer will
provide the initial items (hard hats, safety glasses, leather
gloves, etc.), and the employee will be responsible for
maintaining them and exchange them if damaged or worn
out. Another cost control measure often used is to provide
limited PPE for employees to share. However, very few
items can be shared between employees without an
effective cleaning and sanitizing program.
In the U.S., OSHA requires employers to provide the
necessary PPE at no cost to employees (with a few, specific
exceptions). Employees may provide their own PPE if
desired, but the employer is responsible for ensuring all
equipment used by an employee is adequate, properly
maintained, and kept cleaned and disinfected, regardless of
whether it is employee owned, or supplied by the employer.
Similar regulations are in place in other jurisdictions.
Where temporary workers are employed (as
seasonal employees, vacation/holiday relief, etc.), or
contractors are used to complete work, an arrangement
should be established between the host employer and the
employment agency/contractor to ensure all personnel
are adequately protected. No employee can be exempted
from using and maintaining PPE simply because he or
she is a temporary or contract employee.
5.5 Inspection, Storage, and Maintenance
PPE is the least effective method of exposure control.
One reason is people may fail to use it properly when
they put it on. Other reasons include:
• It can be defective,
• It can wear thin or break through normal use
• It can become compromised by improper storage,
or
• It can be compromised through exposure (to
chemicals, sunlight, harsh environments, etc.).
Therefore, all protective clothing and equipment must be
inspected on a regular basis. Even new equipment that has
never been used needs to be inspected as manufacturing
defects and shipping damage can and do occur.
Typically, the user must inspect every item of
protective clothing and equipment, every time it is used.
This can be accomplished through a simple, informal
inspection program where the user is trained to look over
his/her equipment for excessive wear and tear, holes,
 Guideline for the Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for Small Business Owners
cuts, abrasions or other abnormal conditions that will
affect the performance and usability of the equipment.
Some protective equipment items such as
emergency respirators and protective suits must also be
inspected formally, with appropriate documentation, on a
periodic basis. Formal inspections are typically performed
by following a checklist to ensure all items are covered
adequately, and to provide documentation that the
inspection was completed as required. Manufacturers of
PPE usually provide inspection guidelines, and
sometimes training, to assist with this requirement.
While the user must inspect and maintain his/her
personal items, there are some items that may be shared
by many users (a faceshield hanging by a grinder,
specialized heat-resistant gloves for handling hot metal,
or welding hoods that are used infrequently). PPE used
by multiple employees must be sanitized between users,
and must be included in a formal inspection program, with
an assigned “owner” or other responsible party. If a
specific person is not assigned to complete a
documented inspection of the equipment, it is likely that it
may never be inspected.
The improper storage of PPE is commonplace.
Improperly stored PPE can rapidly deteriorate or become
contaminated with toxic chemicals. As a result, it could fail
to work, potentially increasing the user’s exposure to the
hazard. Proper storage is also an economic issue,
particularly for more critical or costly items such as fall
protectors, supplied air respirators, or laser-protective
eyewear. Storing PPE properly also includes making sure
the equipment is cleaned according to the manufacturer’s
instructions and stored in a manner that will preserve the
condition of the equipment. PPE should not be stored in
toolboxes where it can become crushed or broken, or out
in open work areas where there is a risk of becoming
contaminated.
Maintenance of PPE should typically be limited to
cleaning or replacing parts provided by the manufacturer
for replacement (hard hat suspension liners). Persons
should not repair damaged PPE without proper training
from the manufacturer.
Individuals cleaning PPE, should ensure procedures
are used which prevent exposure of the employee and
protect the integrity of the equipment. If PPE is being
cleaned for re-use, the cleaning methods must include
proper disinfection, and inspection to ensure materials the
PPE has been exposed to have not compromised its
performance characteristics. For example, chemical
protective gloves are very difficult to re-use because the
initial exposures may degrade the glove material,
rendering it ineffective for future use. Hard hats and safety
glasses, however, are commonly re-used because they
are rarely exposed to chemicals that will compromise their
protective properties (although such exposure is possible,
and these items must then be replaced). Detailed
guidance on decontamination procedures can be found in
Chapter 8 of Chemical Protective Clothing, 2nd edition.
5.6 Applicable Standards
Government regulations can set performance requirements
for PPE and address aspects of how a PPE program is
administered. However, industry consensus standards are
often just as important as government regulations. In
Canada and the U.S., government regulations may refer to
standards set by industry bodies, such as the Canadian
Standards Association (CSA) or the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI). Consensus standards are often
newer and reflect more recent experience and research
than government regulations. Consideration of consensus
standards will help meet governmental regulations and may
result in an overall superior safety effort.
6. Specialty PPE
Some workplaces may contain special hazards that aren’t
common throughout the industry — such as highly
flammable or toxic solvents, high voltage electrical work,
extreme heat exposure, work over or near water, fire-
fighting and emergency response, or other specialized
activities. In these situations, a variety of protective
clothing and equipment is available to protect from these
special hazards. These include:
• flame retardant clothing,
• aluminized heat protective suits,
• electrical protective equipment (for electric shock,
and arc flash protection),
• fully encapsulating chemical protective suits,
• firefighting equipment (bunker or turnout gear), and
• personal flotation devices.
All of these items fall into the category of PPE, but have
special use, inspection, and maintenance requirements.
Manufacturers of this type of equipment will generally
provide use, inspection, and maintenance guidelines, and
may offer training to use the equipment properly.
Fall protection equipment may be considered PPE,
but it may require specialized equipment, and in most
jurisdictions is covered by a complete set of regulations or
standards beyond the scope of this document. When
employees are required to work at height, those
regulations must be consulted to fully understand the
requirements. Protection from respiratory hazards and
noise are extensive topics that are also covered under
separate regulations. Employers are encouraged to
consult their applicable provincial, state, or national
regulations for details.
7. Summary
Effective protection of employees requires a thorough
understanding of the hazards in the workplace, a focused
effort on selecting the right methods to control employee
exposures, and management of those protective
measures. Using personal protective equipment as an
exposure control requires a focused effort, formal hazard
assessment, and program management.
5
 Guideline for the Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for Small Business Owners
cuts, abrasions or other abnormal conditions that will
affect the performance and usability of the equipment.
Some protective equipment items such as
emergency respirators and protective suits must also be
inspected formally, with appropriate documentation, on a
periodic basis. Formal inspections are typically performed
by following a checklist to ensure all items are covered
adequately, and to provide documentation that the
inspection was completed as required. Manufacturers of
PPE usually provide inspection guidelines, and
sometimes training, to assist with this requirement.
While the user must inspect and maintain his/her
personal items, there are some items that may be shared
by many users (a faceshield hanging by a grinder,
specialized heat-resistant gloves for handling hot metal,
or welding hoods that are used infrequently). PPE used
by multiple employees must be sanitized between users,
and must be included in a formal inspection program, with
an assigned “owner” or other responsible party. If a
specific person is not assigned to complete a
documented inspection of the equipment, it is likely that it
may never be inspected.
The improper storage of PPE is commonplace.
Improperly stored PPE can rapidly deteriorate or become
contaminated with toxic chemicals. As a result, it could fail
to work, potentially increasing the user’s exposure to the
hazard. Proper storage is also an economic issue,
particularly for more critical or costly items such as fall
protectors, supplied air respirators, or laser-protective
eyewear. Storing PPE properly also includes making sure
the equipment is cleaned according to the manufacturer’s
instructions and stored in a manner that will preserve the
condition of the equipment. PPE should not be stored in
toolboxes where it can become crushed or broken, or out
in open work areas where there is a risk of becoming
contaminated.
Maintenance of PPE should typically be limited to
cleaning or replacing parts provided by the manufacturer
for replacement (hard hat suspension liners). Persons
should not repair damaged PPE without proper training
from the manufacturer.
Individuals cleaning PPE, should ensure procedures
are used which prevent exposure of the employee and
protect the integrity of the equipment. If PPE is being
cleaned for re-use, the cleaning methods must include
proper disinfection, and inspection to ensure materials the
PPE has been exposed to have not compromised its
performance characteristics. For example, chemical
protective gloves are very difficult to re-use because the
initial exposures may degrade the glove material,
rendering it ineffective for future use. Hard hats and safety
glasses, however, are commonly re-used because they
are rarely exposed to chemicals that will compromise their
protective properties (although such exposure is possible,
and these items must then be replaced). Detailed
guidance on decontamination procedures can be found in
Chapter 8 of Chemical Protective Clothing, 2nd edition.
5.6 Applicable Standards
Government regulations can set performance requirements
for PPE and address aspects of how a PPE program is
administered. However, industry consensus standards are
often just as important as government regulations. In
Canada and the U.S., government regulations may refer to
standards set by industry bodies, such as the Canadian
Standards Association (CSA) or the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI). Consensus standards are often
newer and reflect more recent experience and research
than government regulations. Consideration of consensus
standards will help meet governmental regulations and may
result in an overall superior safety effort.
6. Specialty PPE
Some workplaces may contain special hazards that aren’t
common throughout the industry — such as highly
flammable or toxic solvents, high voltage electrical work,
extreme heat exposure, work over or near water, fire-
fighting and emergency response, or other specialized
activities. In these situations, a variety of protective
clothing and equipment is available to protect from these
special hazards. These include:
• flame retardant clothing,
• aluminized heat protective suits,
• electrical protective equipment (for electric shock,
and arc flash protection),
• fully encapsulating chemical protective suits,
• firefighting equipment (bunker or turnout gear), and
• personal flotation devices.
All of these items fall into the category of PPE, but have
special use, inspection, and maintenance requirements.
Manufacturers of this type of equipment will generally
provide use, inspection, and maintenance guidelines, and
may offer training to use the equipment properly.
Fall protection equipment may be considered PPE,
but it may require specialized equipment, and in most
jurisdictions is covered by a complete set of regulations or
standards beyond the scope of this document. When
employees are required to work at height, those
regulations must be consulted to fully understand the
requirements. Protection from respiratory hazards and
noise are extensive topics that are also covered under
separate regulations. Employers are encouraged to
consult their applicable provincial, state, or national
regulations for details.
7. Summary
Effective protection of employees requires a thorough
understanding of the hazards in the workplace, a focused
effort on selecting the right methods to control employee
exposures, and management of those protective
measures. Using personal protective equipment as an
exposure control requires a focused effort, formal hazard
assessment, and program management.
5
 Guideline for the Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for Small Business Owners
cuts, abrasions or other abnormal conditions that will
affect the performance and usability of the equipment.
Some protective equipment items such as
emergency respirators and protective suits must also be
inspected formally, with appropriate documentation, on a
periodic basis. Formal inspections are typically performed
by following a checklist to ensure all items are covered
adequately, and to provide documentation that the
inspection was completed as required. Manufacturers of
PPE usually provide inspection guidelines, and
sometimes training, to assist with this requirement.
While the user must inspect and maintain his/her
personal items, there are some items that may be shared
by many users (a faceshield hanging by a grinder,
specialized heat-resistant gloves for handling hot metal,
or welding hoods that are used infrequently). PPE used
by multiple employees must be sanitized between users,
and must be included in a formal inspection program, with
an assigned “owner” or other responsible party. If a
specific person is not assigned to complete a
documented inspection of the equipment, it is likely that it
may never be inspected.
The improper storage of PPE is commonplace.
Improperly stored PPE can rapidly deteriorate or become
contaminated with toxic chemicals. As a result, it could fail
to work, potentially increasing the user’s exposure to the
hazard. Proper storage is also an economic issue,
particularly for more critical or costly items such as fall
protectors, supplied air respirators, or laser-protective
eyewear. Storing PPE properly also includes making sure
the equipment is cleaned according to the manufacturer’s
instructions and stored in a manner that will preserve the
condition of the equipment. PPE should not be stored in
toolboxes where it can become crushed or broken, or out
in open work areas where there is a risk of becoming
contaminated.
Maintenance of PPE should typically be limited to
cleaning or replacing parts provided by the manufacturer
for replacement (hard hat suspension liners). Persons
should not repair damaged PPE without proper training
from the manufacturer.
Individuals cleaning PPE, should ensure procedures
are used which prevent exposure of the employee and
protect the integrity of the equipment. If PPE is being
cleaned for re-use, the cleaning methods must include
proper disinfection, and inspection to ensure materials the
PPE has been exposed to have not compromised its
performance characteristics. For example, chemical
protective gloves are very difficult to re-use because the
initial exposures may degrade the glove material,
rendering it ineffective for future use. Hard hats and safety
glasses, however, are commonly re-used because they
are rarely exposed to chemicals that will compromise their
protective properties (although such exposure is possible,
and these items must then be replaced). Detailed
guidance on decontamination procedures can be found in
Chapter 8 of Chemical Protective Clothing, 2nd edition.
5.6 Applicable Standards
Government regulations can set performance requirements
for PPE and address aspects of how a PPE program is
administered. However, industry consensus standards are
often just as important as government regulations. In
Canada and the U.S., government regulations may refer to
standards set by industry bodies, such as the Canadian
Standards Association (CSA) or the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI). Consensus standards are often
newer and reflect more recent experience and research
than government regulations. Consideration of consensus
standards will help meet governmental regulations and may
result in an overall superior safety effort.
6. Specialty PPE
Some workplaces may contain special hazards that aren’t
common throughout the industry — such as highly
flammable or toxic solvents, high voltage electrical work,
extreme heat exposure, work over or near water, fire-
fighting and emergency response, or other specialized
activities. In these situations, a variety of protective
clothing and equipment is available to protect from these
special hazards. These include:
• flame retardant clothing,
• aluminized heat protective suits,
• electrical protective equipment (for electric shock,
and arc flash protection),
• fully encapsulating chemical protective suits,
• firefighting equipment (bunker or turnout gear), and
• personal flotation devices.
All of these items fall into the category of PPE, but have
special use, inspection, and maintenance requirements.
Manufacturers of this type of equipment will generally
provide use, inspection, and maintenance guidelines, and
may offer training to use the equipment properly.
Fall protection equipment may be considered PPE,
but it may require specialized equipment, and in most
jurisdictions is covered by a complete set of regulations or
standards beyond the scope of this document. When
employees are required to work at height, those
regulations must be consulted to fully understand the
requirements. Protection from respiratory hazards and
noise are extensive topics that are also covered under
separate regulations. Employers are encouraged to
consult their applicable provincial, state, or national
regulations for details.
7. Summary
Effective protection of employees requires a thorough
understanding of the hazards in the workplace, a focused
effort on selecting the right methods to control employee
exposures, and management of those protective
measures. Using personal protective equipment as an
exposure control requires a focused effort, formal hazard
assessment, and program management.
5
American Industrial Hygiene Association

8. Additional Resources OSHA e-tools for conducting hazard assessments

and selecting PPE: http://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA): oshasoft/hazexp.html
Chemical Protective Clothing, 2nd edition, D.H. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/eyeandface/
Anna (ed.). Fairfax, VA: AIHA, 2003. ppe/selection.html
American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA): Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety:
Essential Resources for Industrial Hygiene: A http://www.ccohs.ca
Compendium of Current Practice Standards and British Columbia PPE regulations:
Guidelines, Chapter 21 — Personal Protective http://regulation.healthandsafetycentre.org/s/Part8.
Equipment. Fairfax, VA: AIHA, 2000. asp
Forsberg, K. and S.Z. Mansdorf: Quick Selection U.K. requirements for conducting a health and
Guide to Chemical Protective Clothing, 4th edition. safety risk assessment:
New York: John Wiley & Sons, 2003.
http://www.businesslink.gov.uk — follow the links to
OSHA Small Business Outreach programs: “Safety & Environment”
http://www.osha.gov/dcsp/smallbusiness/index.html
U.K HSE page on small business startup; includes
OSHA PPE regulation (29 CFR 1910.132 - .138): free leaflets on conducting a health and safety
http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/personalprotectiveequi risk assessment, and PPE:
pment/index.html
http://www.hse.gov.uk/startup/index.htm
Small Entity Compliance Guide for the Respiratory
U.S.-EU Cooperation on Workplace Safety and
Protection Standard (CFR 1910.134)
Health (links to European and U.S. legislation
Revised 1999: http://www.osha.gov/Publications/
and practices):
SECG_RPS/secg_rps.html
http://www.useuosh.org/
OSHA — Noise and Hearing Conservation:
http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/noisehearingconservati Tri-National Working Group of Government Experts
on/index.html#Compliance on Workplace Safety and Health (U.S., Canada,
Mexico):
http://www.naalcosh.org/

6
 Contributing Authors

This guideline is sponsored and maintained by the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) Protective Clothing
and Equipment Committee.

Committee Members who contributed include the following:

Joe Tudor, CIH, CSP

Shell Chemical LP
Norco, LA

Wendy E. McDowell
McDowell Safety & Health Services, LLC
Sanger, TX

Timothy E. Roberts, CIH, CSP

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Livermore, CA

v
 Guideline for the Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for Small Business Owners
Appendix A
EXAMPLE: SMALL BUSINESS, INC. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT
PROGRAM
NOTE: This document is only a sample. The authors
recognize that small businesses may not have a
dedicated Health and Safety Manager. The wording of
this document is only suggested, and may be
changed as needed by the employer.
PURPOSE and SCOPE
The purpose of this program is to ensure that proper
personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided, used,
and maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition to
protect employees from health and safety hazards arising
from work processes or in an environment where it has
been determined that PPE is required. Through this
program, the company identifies potential hazards and
then works toward removing or eliminating them through
substitution (with less hazardous materials or processes),
engineering means, or administrative controls to
eliminate the need for PPE where it is practical and
feasible.
This program covers eye and face protection, head
protection, foot protection, and hand protection. The
Respiratory Protection and Hearing Conservation
programs cover respiratory and hearing hazards,
respectively, although these hazards will be included in the
Hazard Assessment portion of this program. This program
will cover the responsibilities of managers, supervisors and
workers, as well as the assessment of hazards, selection,
use, and maintenance of PPE, and training.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The Health and Safety Manager is responsible for
assessing the hazards and exposures that may require
the use of PPE, determining the type of equipment to be
provided, and ensuring the equipment is purchased
through normal purchasing procedures. Input from
managers, supervisors, and employees will be obtained
and considered in selecting appropriate equipment. The
Health and Safety Manager, or a designee, will also be
responsible for completing the Hazard Assessment
Certification (as outlined in the Appendices B and C.) The
Health and Safety Manager is also responsible for
reviewing this program at least annually, and updating it,
as necessary, when there is a change in process or in the
workplace that might introduce or change an exposure or
hazard, and for updating the hazard assessment
documentation and certification as necessary. The Health
and Safety Manager is responsible for being
knowledgeable about specific applicable government
regulations and non-governmental standards.
The Training Supervisor is responsible for training
employees in the proper use and care of PPE. The Health
and Safety Manager will provide input to the Training
Supervisor, as necessary, to help ensure the appropriate
materials are available and used for employee training.
Employees are responsible for following all provisions
of this program, their training, and related procedures.
They are expected to wear PPE when and where
required by this procedure, or by other applicable work
procedures; to inspect and maintain PPE in a usable, safe
condition; and to obtain replacement PPE as needed.
Employees are also asked to notify their supervisor or
Health and Safety representative of concerns regarding
use and applicability of PPE in their work environment.
Line Supervisors and Managers are responsible for
ensuring all employees adhere to the requirements of this
program, and that all employees have full access to the
materials needed to comply. Supervisors and managers
are responsible for resolving problems that may be
encountered involving PPE, in conjunction with the
Health and Safety Manager.
HAZARD ASSESSMENT
The Health and Safety Manager, or that person’s
representative, will perform an assessment of the
workplace to determine if hazards are present, or likely to
be present, which necessitate the use of personal
protective equipment (PPE). This assessment will consist
of a survey of the workplace to identify potential sources
of exposure to workers. Consideration will be given to
hazards such as impact, penetration, laceration,
compression (dropping or rolling heavy objects on feet,
roll-over, etc.), chemical exposures, harmful dust, heat,
optical radiation, electrical hazards, noise, and any other
health or safety hazard. Where such hazards are present,
or likely to be present, the company will:
• Select, and have each affected employee use PPE
designed to protect the employee from the hazards
identified in the hazard assessment,
• Communicate equipment selection decisions to
each affected employee,
• Select and provide PPE that properly fits each
affected employee, and ensure it is available as
needed, and
• Train employees in the use and care of PPE as
described elsewhere in this program.
7
American Industrial Hygiene Association
SELECTION OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be selected on
the basis of the hazards to which the workers are
exposed or potentially exposed. All selections will be
made with input from managers, supervisors and workers
who will use the PPE. Personal protective equipment will
meet the applicable performance standards as outlined in
the Occupational Safety and Health Administration
regulations (or other local or national regulatory
requirements). When an industry consensus standard
exists, PPE will be selected to comply with the latest
revision of the standard so long as this does not result in
violation of a government regulation. Where a standard
does not exist, PPE selection will be based on task(s)
performed, conditions present, duration of use, hazards
identified, and PPE available.
TRAINING
Each employee who is required to use PPE will be trained
in the following:
• Why PPE is necessary,
• When PPE is necessary,
• What PPE is necessary and any alternative
choices of equipment,
• How to properly don, doff, adjust, and wear PPE,
and
• The proper care, maintenance, storage, useful life,
cleaning, disposal, and replacement of PPE.
Training will include an opportunity for employees to
handle the PPE and demonstrate that they understand
the training and have the ability to use the PPE properly.
The manager or supervisor of the affected employees, or
the Training Supervisor will provide the training. It will be
documented in writing and include the names of each
employee trained, the date(s) of the training, and the
subject matter covered.
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If an employee who has been trained demonstrates a
lack of knowledge or behavior that leads the supervisor to
believe the employee does not have a proper
understanding of the requirements, that employee will be
retrained. If there are changes in the workplace or
processes that change the exposures or type of PPE to
be used, all affected employees will be retrained.
CARE OF PERSONAL PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT
Whenever practical, PPE will be assigned to individual
workers for their exclusive use. Employees will be
responsible for the PPE equipment assigned to them or
used by them.
PPE will be inspected before each use, cleaned or
discarded at the end of each use, and stored according to
instructions given during the training sessions or as
directed by supervisors or managers. Defective or
damaged PPE will not be used. Employees are required
to promptly report any defective or damaged equipment
to their supervisor for repair or replacement.
RECORDKEEPING and REVIEW
Hazard assessments will be reviewed and updated at
least every three years, or whenever processes,
equipment, or materials change to ensure they are
current. The use of PPE will be evaluated during weekly
inspections (as described in the Inspection Program),
and the effectiveness of the PPE program will be audited
annually by the Health and Safety Manager.
All records required by this procedure, including
training, hazard assessment and certification, inspection
records, and audit reports will be maintained by the
Health and Safety Manager. Records will be maintained
for the duration of all affected operations. Training records
for individual employees will be maintained for the
duration of employment, plus 30 years.
 Guideline for the Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for Small Business Owners

Appendix B
PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT HAZARD ASSESSMENT

Date of Hazard Assessment: __________________________________________________________________

Name of Location & Facility: ___________________________________________________________________
Person Performing & Certifying Hazard Assessment: _______________________________________________

TASK HAZARDS PROTECTION

Acetylene or Sparks, optical radiation, flying
electric arc welding particles, welding fume
Chemical handling Chemical splash or spill,
acid burns, vapors
Laboratory operations Chemical splash or spill, acid and
caustic burns, glass breakage
Cutting, brazing, Sparks, optical radiation, flying
soldering particles, flashburns, noise
Grinding, cutting Flying particles, dust, noise
Machining, metal work Flying particles, mists, vapors, noise
Carpentry Flying wood chips, noise, hardwood
dusts, vapors from adhesives,
lacquers, varnishes, etc., contact
with adhesives, etc.
Warehousing Falling objects, noise from forklifts,
flying particles (dust)
Lawn care (mowing, Flying particles, noise
trimming)
Lawn care (pesticide Chemical splash or spill, vapors
mixing and application)
* Respirator use requires specialized training and fit testing of employees. Selection of respirators is done by the safety
staff and will be documented separately.
** A variety of materials are used for chemical-protective gloves and other chemical protective equipment. The proper
glove material will be selected based on the chemicals being used and the conditions of use.
Welding helmet, safety glasses with sideshields, welding
respirator*, leather gloves
Chemical splash goggles with a faceshield, chemical
protective clothing, and nitrile** gloves. A respirator is
required for open container transfers (pouring from
bucket to bucket, or filling buckets from larger containers).*
Chemical splash goggles with a faceshield, lab apron**,
and neoprene** gloves. Respirator may be required if
work is not performed using a lab hood.*
Face shield with safety glasses with shaded lenses or
welding shield, hearing protection (ear plugs or ear
muffs), leather gloves
Face shield and safety glasses with sideshields, leather
gloves, hearing protection (ear plugs or ear muffs), half-
mask respirator.*
Safety glasses with sideshields or goggles, hearing
protection. Do not wear gloves when working with
rotating machinery or parts.
Face shield and safety glasses, hearing protectors.
A respirator may be required for certain activities.*
Coveralls and gloves**. Do not wear gloves when
working with moving machinery or parts.
Hard hat, safety glasses with sideshields, hearing
protection.
Safety glasses with sideshields, hearing protection
(ear plugs or ear muffs), long pants. Use leather gloves
as necessary when working in bushes, or thorny plants.
Safety glasses with sideshields, chemical splash
goggles (for mixing), neoprene or nitrile gloves, lab
apron or slicker suit, half-mask respirator*.

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 Guideline for the Development of Personal Protective Equipment Programs for Small Business Owners

Appendix C
HAZARD ASSESSMENT CERTIFICATION

Hazards are assessed on an ongoing basis using a variety of methods.

1. Prior to any new process start-up, an assessment is made of all possible hazards related to that process (often called
a Process Hazard Review). Design and equipment specifications are reviewed, batch sheets are drafted, flow sheets
are drawn and a physical walk-through is done of the equipment involved. Also, Safety Committee Reviews are done
and operator-training requirements are established and completed before the process is started.

2. Procedures are written, as necessary, to reflect all engineering and administrative controls, as well as required
personal protective equipment. Material Safety Data Sheets, readily available to the worker, are referenced at the top
of each procedure.

3. Job Task Analyses (JTAs) are performed after start-up of a new process, or when an existing process is modified.
JTAs give the employee/operator an opportunity to review safety and health aspects of the process and immediately
correct any deficiencies.

4. Standard Operating Procedures provide additional direction for an operator to assure safe operation of specific tasks.

5. Safety Procedures have been written which cover hard hats and where they are required; safety glasses, what type
and where they are required; and safety shoe requirements. There is also a chart available that lists, by chemical, the
specific type of glove required for each activity.

6. As part of the Health and Safety Exposure Assessment (EA) process, each process has been evaluated, by stressor,
to assess potential exposure risk. This is kept current as new processes are approved. The New Chemical Approval
Process ties in with EA, as well as specifying what type(s) of PPE is required when using a particular chemical.

A hazard assessment of the ___________________ was conducted using one or more of the above methods. The
purpose was to identify existing and potential hazards in the workplace and to establish and implement
appropriate controls, including the use of PPE, when appropriate. Results are available from the Health and Safety
Office and can be found in ________________________________________.

____________________________________________ ____________________________________________
Certified By (Print Name) Tile

____________________________________________ ____________________________________________
Signature Date

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