Who designates personal protective equipment (PPE) for each task?

The supervisor is responsible for designating personal protective equipment (PPE) for each task to ensure the safety and well-being of employees while performing their duties. Supervisors are typically trained in workplace hazards and the appropriate safety protocols required for different tasks. They assess the specific risks associated with each job function and determine the necessary PPE to mitigate those risks effectively.

By having the supervisor in charge, organizations create a clear line of responsibility and accountability regarding safety measures. Supervisors can also provide guidance and training on how to use the designated PPE properly, reinforcing safe practices in the workplace. This designation is an essential part of maintaining compliance with occupational health and safety regulations, which stipulate that employers must assess workplace hazards and select appropriate PPE based on identified risks.

In contrast, while company policy may outline general PPE requirements, it is the supervisor who applies these policies on a practical level, tailored to specific tasks and situations faced by employees. The health and safety officer plays a crucial role in overseeing and ensuring that the workplace adheres to safety standards but does not directly assign PPE for individual tasks in many organizations. Employees should not make these decisions themselves without adequate guidance from supervisory personnel.