PPE Hazard Assessment and Proper Use
The Problem
Workplace hazards such as chemicals, falling objects, sharp materials, and loud noise are common on New Zealand 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 A frequent issue is outdated or inadequate PPE being used as tasks or conditions change.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, what your responsibilities are, and how we can ensure PPE is fit for purpose and used correctly.
Identify the Hazards
- Physical Hazards: Flying particles, sharp tools, falling objects.
- Chemical Hazards: Exposure to hazardous substances, vapours, or spills.
- Noise Hazards: Excessive noise levels that can lead to hearing loss.
- Radiation Hazards: UV exposure from welding, or lasers.
Hazards become more dangerous when PPE is not reviewed as tasks change, or workers fail to report PPE issues.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Hazard Identification and PPE Selection
- PCBU Obligation: Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), businesses 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
On a building site, a worker was given gloves that were fine for general handling but not suitable for cutting tasks. When the worker was 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 PCBU had reviewed the PPE requirements in response to the new task.
Employee Responsibilities
- Check your PPE before starting work.
- Let your supervisor know if your PPE doesn’t suit the task.
- Report new hazards or tasks requiring updated PPE.
Employer Responsibilities
- Conduct regular risk assessments to determine PPE needs.
- Communicate PPE expectations clearly to all workers.
- 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 Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA) and WorkSafe NZ guidelines, PCBUs 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
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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