FAQ: PPE Legislation and Choice

What are the categories of PPE?

PPE is divided into three categories: Category I for minimal hazards (e.g., gardening gloves), Category II for medium hazards (e.g., helmets, S3 shoes) and Category III for death or serious injury hazards (e.g., fall arrest harnesses, complex respiratory protection).

Does PPE have an expiration date?

Yes, particularly helmets (usually 3-5 years from manufacture) and textile fall protection equipment (harnesses and lanyards), which must be serviced annually and replaced according to the manufacturer's instructions (often after 10 years).

What obligations does the employer have?

The employer must provide suitable PPE, maintain it, and ensure that workers are trained in its proper use, especially for Category III PPE.