Hard hat, hi-vis, gloves, boots — PPE is the safety kit we all picture. The trick isn't knowing about it, it's using it well: the right type, a good fit, every time. This friendly guide runs through what protects what and what your employer has to sort out for you.
Why PPE is the backup, not the plan
It's natural to think 'just wear the gear' — but PPE is actually the last step, not the first. The best fix is always to remove or control the hazard itself, with PPE catching whatever risk is left over.
Think of it as your seatbelt: essential, but you'd still rather avoid the crash.
Head to toe
Different jobs, different gear. Have a click through each body area.
Top priority
Hard hats for falling objects; goggles or face shields for dust, sparks and chemical splash.
The main groups
PPE falls into a few families, each suited to a different kind of harm.
Head & face
Hard hats, goggles, face shields and hearing protection for the most vulnerable areas.
Hands & body
Gloves, overalls and hi-vis matched to cut, chemical, thermal or visibility hazards.
Lungs & ears
Respirators and ear protection guard against damage that builds silently over years.
Badly fitted PPE barely counts. A loose mask or wrong gloves can lull you into taking risks.
Using it the right way
Four steps to get real protection out of your gear:
Assess the hazard first
PPE is the last line of defence. Remove or control the hazard before relying on equipment.
Select the right kit
Match PPE to the specific risk — and make sure it fits the person wearing it.
Wear it correctly
Badly fitted PPE barely protects. RPE in particular must be face-fit tested and worn properly.
Check, clean, replace
Inspect before use, keep it clean, and replace anything damaged or past its life.
What Irish law asks
Under the PPE provisions of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007employers must provide suitable PPE free of charge, ensure it fits and train workers to use it. In practice:
- Provide suitable PPE free of charge
- Make sure it fits and is compatible
- Train workers to use and maintain it
- Replace damaged or worn equipment