To protect workers from risk at work, it is essential to train them on how to properly use personal protective equipment (PPE). Proper PPE use can reduce the risk of injury, prevent accidents, and ensure compliance to safety and health legislation.

Here's how to train your employees effectively:

1. Start with a Risk Assessment

Before you begin any training, conduct a risk assessment and compliance audit to determine the hazards that your employees may face. The findings of this assessment will determine the type of PPE required for each task. For example, construction workers will need head protection, whereas workers in factories may require eye or hand protection.

The risk assessment will help in developing a focused training program.

You can find more information on conducting a risk assessment from the HSE.

2. Explain the Purpose of PPE

Begin by outlining the importance of personal protective equipment. Help employees understand that PPE is their last line of defence against workplace risks that can't be eliminated or reduced through other ways. Emphasise the importance of wearing the appropriate PPE to keep safe.

Further info on the importance of PPE can be found on the HSE website.

3. Demonstrate Proper PPE Use

Show employees how to use PPE properly. This includes how to wear, adjust, and check that it fits properly. For example, if training with hard hats, demonstrate how to adjust the headband to ensure a snug fit. For gloves, show how to check for holes or tears before use.

Provide step-by-step instructions on how to put on and take off PPE correctly. Improper removal of PPE can expose workers to hazards.

More details on proper PPE use can be found on the HSE website.

4. Stress the Importance of Maintenance and Storage

Explain that PPE must be stored and maintained correctly for it to remain effective.

For example:

  • Hard hats and hi vis clothing should be kept out of direct sunlight to avoid damage from UV light.
  • Safety eyewear should be cleaned after every use and stored safely where they won't be damaged.
  • Ear defenders should be stored clean to avoid contaminants causing ear infections.

Proper storage means that PPE is ready for use and doesn't degrade under poor conditions. You can find more information on the storage and maintenance of PPE on the HSE website.

5. Highlight Employee Responsibilities

Reminding employees that they have a part to play in keeping the condition of their PPE is essential. They should report any damaged equipment promptly and avoid using any defective gear. Employees must also follow their training and use PPE as necessary.

6. Provide Hands-On Practice

Allow staff to practice using PPE themselves. Hands-on experience, such as putting on a safety harness or adjusting goggles, can help workers gain confidence. It also allows trainers to identify and correct problems early on.

7. Review and Refresh Training Regularly

Keep in mind PPE training isn’t a one-time event.

Employees need regular refreshers, especially when new PPE is introduced or when standards change. Periodic reviews help ensure employees remember how to use PPE correctly and reinforce the importance of wearing it.

More information on refresher training and ongoing reviews can be found in this downloadable HSE document.

Conclusion

Training employees on how to correctly use personal protective equipment can save lives and prevent injuries.

By focussing on risk assessments, demonstrations, and regular reviews, you can make sure everyone on your team understands the importance of PPE and how to use it correctly.