Why should PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) always be considered a last resort?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) should always be considered a last resort because it has inherent limitations in its effectiveness and cannot address the root causes of hazards. While PPE is essential for worker safety in environments where risks are present, it relies on proper use and maintenance to function effectively. For instance, if PPE is not used correctly or if the wrong type of equipment is employed for certain hazards, it may not provide adequate protection. Additionally, PPE does not eliminate hazards; it only mitigates the risk of injury in the presence of those hazards.

Organizations are encouraged to implement safer work practices and control measures first, such as engineering controls or administrative protocols, which can reduce or eliminate the risk of exposure to hazards altogether. When these measures are effectively used, they often remove the need for PPE, leading to a safer working environment. This approach aligns with the hierarchy of controls in safety management, emphasizing that eliminating risks at the source is the most effective strategy for protecting workers.