The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has taken a pivotal step forward in construction safety by mandating that all PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) must properly fit workers. This new requirement fills a critical gap in worker safety regulations, holding employers accountable for ensuring that PPE fits appropriately to provide effective protection. This rule introduces new responsibilities and opportunities to enhance workplace safety.
OSHA’s standards for PPE fit have been stricter for general industry than for construction. For construction, OSHA 1926.95, lacked an equivalent mandate until now. This created an inconsistency that left many construction workers without properly fitting safety gear, potentially compromising their protection. OSHA’s updated rule eliminates this discrepancy.
Under the new law, OSHA inspectors can now issue citations for improperly fitting PPE, not just for the absence of required gear. It’s no longer enough for workers to simply wear PPE; the equipment must fit correctly to ensure it functions as intended.
Employers are now required to evaluate and provide properly fitting PPE for their workforce. BCS Safety professionals are prioritizing PPE fit in their inspections and training. This includes conducting regular body checks and providing guidance on proper adjustments.
WHY THE CHANGE?
The need for properly fitting PPE in construction has been more evident recently. One reason may the influx of Central Americans (Guatemalans and Hondurans in particular) in the construction industry. Additionally, the growing number of women in construction. Construction has traditionally been male-dominated, with PPE designed primarily for male body types. The influx of women into the workforce over the past three decades has likely highlighted the inadequacies of standard-issue gear, driving the push for more inclusive OSHA PPE Standards.
A BCS Employee wearing correctly fitting PPE and Fall Protection.
POOR FITTING PPE CAN CAUSE SAFETY ISSUES
Full-body harnesses are a cornerstone of fall protection in construction, but their effectiveness hinges on a proper fit. An ill-fitting harness can:
- Fail to Arrest a Fall Properly: If the leg or chest straps are too loose, the worker could slip out of the harness during a fall.
- Cause Secondary Injuries: Tight straps can cut off circulation or cause asphyxiation during a fall event.
- Reduce Worker Confidence: Discomfort from an ill-fitting harness can discourage workers from wearing it consistently.
By addressing the risks posed by ill-fitting equipment, the rule ensures that PPE functions as intended, protecting workers from preventable injuries and fatalities. Safety professionals must seize this opportunity to advocate for better practices, conduct thorough inspections, and educate workers on the importance of proper fit. Employers who fail to comply may face legal and financial consequences, but the real cost of non-compliance is far greater: the safety and well-being of their workforce.
BCS’s Best in Class Safety Program is committed to ensuring every worker has proper-fitting PPE, including body harnesses, protective gloves, safety vests and all PPE required to perform our work safely.
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