Differences in body shapes and sizes, as well as limited product options, can make it challenging to find personal protective equipment (PPE) that fits properly and provides suitable safety and comfort.
WorkSafeBC introduced Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) guideline G8.3, Ensuring adequate fit of personal protective equipment, to help ensure all workers have PPE that provides effective protection and does not in itself create a hazard to the wearer.
Employer and worker responsibilities
As an employer, you’re responsible for providing workers with proper PPE, as outlined in section 8.2 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. This includes PPE such as hearing protection, respirators, and high-visibility overalls, safety coveralls, or other protective clothing. You must also ensure that the PPE is in good condition, that workers understand how to wear and use it safely, and that it fits them properly.
Guidance on how to measure and fit PPE to a wide range of body types is outlined in guideline G8.3, which is associated with section 8.3 of the OHS Regulation.
Workers are responsible for providing their own general-purpose gear, such as work gloves, appropriate footwear, and a hard hat.
Learn more about your responsibilities for PPE as an employer or a worker.
Why is it important for PPE to fit properly?
PPE is a worker’s last line of protection. PPE that doesn’t fit properly can cause tripping hazards or catch and snag on equipment, as well as restrict movement and create distractions. It can also increase a worker’s risk of injury and illness, as well as have an impact on their comfort and psychological safety.
Providing PPE that fits properly contributes to a strong and inclusive workplace culture. It can also have a positive impact on productivity, morale, and health and safety performance.
What can I do to ensure PPE fits properly?
If you’re an employer, consider stocking sizing charts and various samples from suppliers for workers to try on, and offering alteration services to ensure PPE can be tailored to fit every body type properly. Providing options shows workers they are valued and respected, which, in turn, can improve recruitment and retention.
If you’re a worker, talk to your supervisors about health and safety concerns when your PPE doesn’t fit properly. Making changes to PPE that doesn’t fit properly may reduce how well it can protect you. It also may not be allowed under the applicable standards.
Resources
- Visit our personal protective equipment webpages for more information and resources.
- WorkSafeBC guideline aims to ensure proper fit of PPE for all workers, regardless of gender (WorkSafeBC news release, March 2023)
- Stand out safely: High-visibility apparel (Poster)
- PPE responsibilities — workers
- PPE responsibilities — employers
For questions about workplace health and safety, call WorkSafeBC’s Prevention Information Line at 1.888.621.7233.
Additional information
- Canadian Women’s Experiences with Personal Protective Equipment in the Workplace (CSA Group)
- Why PPE built for women means safer working conditions (OHS Canada Magazine)
- Need for properly fitting PPE addressed in new guideline (Speaking of Safety)