PPE Hazard Assessment and Proper Use

PPE
English (Canada)

The Problem

Workplace hazards such as chemicals, falling objects, sharp materials, and loud noise are common on Canadian worksites. Without the correct personal protective equipment (PPE), these hazards can cause serious injury, illness, or worse. A frequent issue is outdated or inadequate PPE being used as tasks or conditions change. Today, we’ll discuss the importance of PPE risk assessments, your responsibilities, and how we can ensure PPE is fit for purpose and used correctly.

Identify the Hazards

  • Physical Hazards: Flying particles, sharp tools, falling objects.
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  • Chemical Hazards: Exposure to hazardous substances, vapours, or spills.
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  • Noise Hazards: Excessive noise levels that can lead to hearing loss.
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  • Radiation Hazards: UV exposure from welding or lasers.

Safety Practices and Preventative Measures

Hazard Identification and PPE Selection

  • Employer Obligation: Under the Canada Labour Code and provincial health and safety regulations, employers must identify risks and implement effective control measures, including PPE where necessary.
  • Why It Matters: PPE must be selected based on the actual risks present. A proper assessment ensures the gear will protect you.
  • Communication: Workers must be informed about when and how to use PPE.

Worker Responsibility to Report Hazards

Workers must speak up when they notice:

  • PPE that is not fit for the job.
  • New or irregular tasks that may pose unaddressed risks.
  • Tasks involving hazards not previously assessed.
  • PPE that is missing or has not been provided.
  • Why It Matters: Your input ensures PPE remains suitable and updated for changing conditions.

Proper Use of PPE

  • While today we’re focusing on selecting the right PPE, future toolbox talks will cover correct usage and maintenance.
  • Why It Matters: The best PPE only works when worn and used properly.

Continuous Improvement and Feedback

  • Reassessment: PPE requirements must be re-evaluated when tasks change, equipment is modified, or new risks are introduced.
  • Worker Feedback: Let your supervisor know if the PPE isn’t working well or feels unsafe.

Real-Life Case or Scenario

Where possible, use an actual incident that you have experienced or been involved in.

On a construction site, a worker was given gloves suitable for general handling but not appropriate for cutting tasks. When assigned a cutting job, they received no updated PPE and suffered a deep cut to the hand. The task had changed, but the PPE hadn’t been reassessed. This incident could have been prevented if the worker had raised the concern or if the employer had reviewed PPE requirements in response to the new task.

Employee Responsibilities

  • Check your PPE before starting work.
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  • Let your supervisor know if your PPE doesn’t suit the task.
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  • Report new hazards or tasks requiring updated PPE.

    • Employer Responsibilities

    • Conduct regular risk assessments to determine PPE needs.
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    • Communicate PPE expectations clearly to all workers.
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    • Provide suitable PPE and update it as tasks or conditions change.

    Discussion & Questions

    • "Have you done a task where the PPE didn’t feel right or was insufficient?"
    • "What steps do you take when new hazards appear?"
    • "Any ideas on how we can improve the PPE we use?"

    Commitment/Action Plan

    Let’s all commit to checking our PPE and reporting issues immediately. If you see a task that’s changed or new equipment introduced, notify your supervisor so a fresh assessment can be made.

    Wrap-Up

    The right PPE can save lives—but only if it’s up to date, used properly, and matched to the hazard. Thanks for your commitment to a safer site by staying alert, speaking up, and keeping PPE relevant to the job.

    Standards Overview

    Under the Canada Labour Code and provincial health and safety regulations, employers must:

    • Carry out regular risk assessments to identify when PPE is required.
    • Provide suitable PPE to workers and ensure it is used correctly.
    • Reassess PPE needs as tasks and hazards change.
    • Ensure all PPE is maintained and replaced when needed.

    Disclaimer

    “The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.

    It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.

    Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.

    All Rights Reserved Site App Pro 2025

    Last Updated:
    July 25, 2025