In this module
Objectives covered: LO 1.3.1. By the end you will be able to:
- List the five things every PPE user must be trained on.
- Know when a worker must be retrained.
- Put on and take off PPE in a safe order.
- Inspect, clean, store and replace PPE correctly.
3.1 What PPE training must cover
OSHA 1910.132(f)(1) says each worker who uses PPE must be trained to know at least:
- When PPE is necessary.
- What PPE is necessary.
- How to put it on, take it off, adjust and wear it.
- The limitations of the PPE.
- The proper care, maintenance, useful life and disposal of the PPE.
Each worker must show they understand the training, and can use PPE properly, before doing work that needs it. The employer must keep a written record with the worker's name, the date(s) of training and the subject (1910.132(f)(4)).
3.2 When to retrain
Retrain a worker when (1910.132(f)(3)):
- the workplace changes so the earlier training is out of date,
- the type of PPE changes, or
- the worker's behaviour shows they did not understand or keep the skill.
Good practice is also a short refresher every year and after any PPE-related incident.
3.3 Putting on and taking off
The order matters, especially with chemicals. A common safe order is:
| Putting on (donning) | Taking off (doffing) |
|---|---|
| 1. Coverall or apron | 1. Wash outer gloves if contaminated, then remove them |
| 2. Boots | 2. Apron or coverall, rolling it inside out |
| 3. Respirator, then do a user seal check | 3. Boots |
| 4. Goggles or face shield | 4. Goggles or face shield, handled by the strap |
| 5. Helmet and hearing protection | 5. Respirator, handled by the straps |
| 6. Gloves last, over the sleeves | 6. Inner gloves, then wash hands and face |
3.4 Inspect, clean, store and replace
| Item | Check before use | Replace when |
|---|---|---|
| Safety helmet | Cracks, dents, chalky shell, worn suspension | After any heavy impact, or at the maker's service life |
| Safety glasses and goggles | Scratches, cracked lens, loose frame, broken strap | When vision is blurred or parts are damaged |
| Gloves | Holes, cuts, swelling, stiffness, colour change | When damaged, or at the chemical breakthrough time |
| Respirator | Valves, straps, face seal, cartridge date | Filters when breathing gets hard; cartridges on schedule |
| Harness | Cuts, burns, broken stitching, bent buckles, labels | After arresting a fall, or any damage found |
| Safety shoes | Sole damage, exposed toe cap, cracks | When the sole or upper is damaged |
Store PPE clean and dry, away from sunlight, heat, chemicals and sharp objects. Give each worker their own respirator and earplugs. Never share PPE that touches the face or ears without cleaning.
OSHA 1910.132(e): defective or damaged PPE shall not be used. Tag it "Do not use", remove it from service and replace it before work continues.
3.5 Making training work on the shop floor
- Teach in Bangla, with pictures and real PPE in hand. Many technicians learn faster by doing than by reading.
- Use short daily toolbox talks of 5 to 10 minutes before the shift.
- Ask each worker to demonstrate: put on the harness, do a seal check, insert an earplug.
- Include contractors and day labourers. They often face the highest risk and get the least training.
- Record attendance with signatures or thumbprints, and keep the records for audits and buyers' inspections.
New gas-cutting workers often join on daily contracts. One yard introduced a half-day induction in Bangla: each worker practised putting on a helmet, goggles, leather gloves, safety boots and harness, and showed the trainer how to check the harness. Supervisors checked PPE at the gate every morning and swapped damaged items on the spot. The yard kept a training register for each worker, which also helped it meet Hong Kong Convention ship-recycling requirements.
Learning Check
Answer these two questions to check your understanding. You can try again as many times as you like.