How do you know if PPE fits?

Employees come in all shapes and sizes. Their bodies have different proportions: some are taller, some are shorter, some are wider, and some are narrower. But at the end of the day, PPE needs to properly fit the employee.

The provision of properly fitting PPE is so important that it is mentioned in provincial health and safety legislation. For example, in Ontario, Bill 229 requires employers to ensure that PPE and protective clothing provided, worn, or used in the workplace fit properly and is suitable for use by women and individuals of all body types. Additionally, in B.C., the Occupational Health and Safety Guidelines Part 8: Personal Protective Clothing and Equipment was developed to provide details about how PPE is to be selected and used, including considerations for use, compatibility, maintenance, and storage.

But how do you know if PPE fits? Just as PPE isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, the same applies to a proper fit. Proper fitting PPE effectively minimizes exposure to hazards, and the fit should not create any new hazards. Think about a hair net that is too small and doesn’t hold all of the employee’s hair back, allowing the hair to become entangled in moving parts. Or if protective coveralls are provided, are they loose and baggy, leading to a trip and fall, or too tight, restricting their range of motion?

Consider if the PPE is the right size for the employee. Are there any areas not protected by the provided PPE that should be protected? If we think of goggles, do they cover the employees’ eyes entirely? Are there gaps in the seal, potentially allowing a splash of chemicals to the mucus membrane in the eyes? If so, the PPE does not fit properly, and alternative solutions need to be considered.

Take into consideration your workplace and workforce. Likely, there isn’t one identical size for all employees. Consider sourcing PPE from a supplier that offers a range of sizes and shapes. Perhaps the manufacturer can provide samples to test fit before ordering. Always be aware of the manufacturer’s recommendations for use, wear, maintenance, and storage.

Just like anything in the realm of health and safety, your efforts and attention need to be directed to

continuous improvement, not a simple one-and-done approach. Has proper fit of PPE been added to your Monthly Workplace Inspection Checklist? If not, should it be?