Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) plays an important role in reducing workplace risks where hazards cannot be eliminated or adequately controlled by other means. It helps protect employees from injury and exposure to a wide range of workplace hazards, including chemicals, flying particles, noise, falling objects and biological agents.
However, PPE should not be viewed as the first line of defence. Employers should first consider whether hazards can be removed, substituted or controlled through safer working methods before relying on personal protective equipment.
This guide explains what PPE is, when it should be used, common types of PPE and how it supports workplace health, safety and first aid planning.
This information is general guidance and should not be considered legal advice.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to clothing or equipment worn to reduce exposure to workplace hazards.
PPE is designed to help minimise the risk of injury where hazards remain after other control measures have been implemented.
Many workplace hazards cannot be completely eliminated.
Suitable PPE can help reduce the likelihood or severity of injuries by providing an additional layer of protection for employees carrying out their work.
Examples include protection against:
PPE is generally considered one of the last control measures within the hierarchy of risk control.
| Control Measure | Example |
|---|---|
| Elimination | Remove the hazard completely. |
| Substitution | Replace with a safer alternative. |
| Engineering controls | Machine guarding or extraction systems. |
| Administrative controls | Training, procedures and supervision. |
| PPE | Gloves, helmets, eye protection and respirators. |
This means PPE should support other safety measures rather than replace them.
| Type of PPE | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Safety helmets | Protect against head injuries. |
| Safety glasses or goggles | Protect the eyes from debris and chemicals. |
| Gloves | Protect hands from cuts, chemicals and contamination. |
| High-visibility clothing | Improve visibility around vehicles and machinery. |
| Safety footwear | Protect feet from impact and puncture injuries. |
| Hearing protection | Reduce exposure to harmful noise. |
| Respiratory protective equipment | Reduce inhalation of hazardous substances. |
Related guides:
Employers should assess workplace risks and determine whether PPE is required after considering other control measures.
This may include:
Employees also play an important role by:
Although PPE helps reduce risks, accidents can still occur.
Businesses should ensure suitable first aid arrangements remain in place alongside PPE programmes.
See HSE First Aid Needs Assessment Explained.
PPE should be inspected regularly to ensure it remains suitable for use.
Damaged, worn or expired equipment should be replaced promptly.
PPE is an important part of workplace health and safety but should always be used alongside effective risk assessments, safe working practices and suitable first aid arrangements.
Explore our most popular first aid kits for home, car, travel, family trips, camping, workplace and everyday emergencies.
£17.95 £14.95
£17.95 £10.95
£25.95 £15.95
£7.59
£25.99 £14.99
£12.99 £9.99
£25.95 £15.95
