OSHA Finalizes New Rule on Properly Fitting PPE for Construction Workers

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On December 11, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a final rule revising the personal protective equipment (PPE) standard for the construction industry. The new regulation explicitly mandates that PPE provided to construction workers must properly fit each individual, ensuring better protection against hazardous working conditions.

“I’ve spoken to construction workers, especially women, who shared their experiences of ill-fitting or unavailable PPE in appropriate sizes,” said Doug Parker, Assistant Secretary for OSHA. “Proper fit is essential for PPE to function correctly. I’m pleased by the strong support from both employers and unions for this rule, which clarifies that employers must supply appropriately fitting PPE to all workers who require it.”

The updated standard incorporates clear language obliging employers to provide PPE that fits correctly, aligning construction PPE requirements with those already enforced in general industry.

Properly fitting PPE is crucial to maintaining worker safety. Ill-fitting gear can not only reduce its effectiveness but also create additional risks, such as loose gloves or oversized clothing getting caught in machinery. Furthermore, discomfort caused by poorly fitting PPE often discourages workers from wearing it altogether. This has been a persistent safety issue, particularly affecting women and workers whose physical sizes fall outside the average range.

With this revision, OSHA aims to enhance workplace safety by ensuring that all construction workers, regardless of size, have access to well-fitting and effective protective equipment.