On December 11, 2024, OSHA announced a significant update to its PPE standard for the construction industry. The new law emphasizes proper fit, requiring employers to provide a range of PPE sizes to ensure that all workers are adequately protected. This change marks a critical step forward in addressing a longstanding safety concern.
Why Properly Fitting PPE Matters
Ill-fitting personal protective equipment (PPE) has been a persistent issue in the construction industry, posing serious safety risks. These issues disproportionately affect women and workers with smaller or larger body sizes, who often struggle to find appropriately sized PPE on job sites. Here are some of the key dangers:
- Entanglement in Machinery: Loose PPE can get caught in equipment, leading to severe injuries.
- Discomfort: PPE that is too tight or too loose often discourages workers from wearing it properly or at all.
- Reduced Mobility and Dexterity: Oversized gloves, overly tight clothing, or other poorly fitting gear can hinder movement and make tasks more difficult and dangerous.
- Compromised Protection: Improper seals or gaps in PPE allow hazards such as debris, chemicals, and other harmful substances to come into contact with workers.
OSHA’s Revised Standard
To address these challenges, OSHA has updated 29 CFR Part 1926. The revised language explicitly states that PPE in the construction industry must fit properly. This update brings construction in line with safety standards in other industries and aims to reduce risks by ensuring that all workers have access to properly fitting protective gear.
What This Means for Employers and Safety Managers
Under the updated standard, employers must:
- Offer a Range of PPE Sizes: Ensure that PPE is available in sizes that accommodate all workers, including those with particularly smaller or larger body frames.
- Conduct Proper Fit Testing: Employers are encouraged to fit-test PPE and solicit feedback from workers to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
- Prioritize Worker Safety: By addressing the fit issue, employers can help reduce injuries, improve compliance, and foster a culture of safety.
The Bigger Picture
This update underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of the modern workforce. Poorly fitting PPE is not just an inconvenience; it’s a safety hazard. By providing workers with the right tools for protection, employers can significantly reduce risks and improve overall job site safety.
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