Full definition
The last line of defense in the hierarchy of controls (after elimination, substitution, engineering controls, and administrative controls), PPE is equipment worn by workers to reduce exposure to workplace hazards when higher-level controls are not feasible or sufficient. Major PPE categories: (1) Head — hard hat (ANSI Z89.1), bump cap. (2) Eyes/face — safety glasses (ANSI Z87.1), goggles, face shield, welding helmet. (3) Hearing — earplugs (NRR 20-33 dB), earmuffs (NRR 20-30 dB); mandatory above 85 dBA TWA per OSHA/NOM-011-STPS. (4) Respiratory — disposable N95, half-face APR, full-face APR, PAPR, SCBA; per OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134. (5) Hands — cut-resistant, chemical, thermal, dielectric gloves per hazard. (6) Feet — safety-toe, puncture-resistant, EH, dielectric per ASTM F2413/NOM-113-STPS. (7) Body — coveralls, aprons, FR clothing, chemical suits. (8) Fall protection — full-body harness per ANSI Z359/NOM-009-STPS. In Mexico: NOM-017-STPS-2008 mandates that employers provide PPE appropriate to identified hazards based on risk assessment, at no cost to workers. PPE must be properly fitted, maintained, and replaced when damaged. Worker training on proper use, limitations, and care is required. Per OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart I and NOM-017-STPS.