Who is responsible for requiring the wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment?

The responsibility for requiring the wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) falls primarily on the employer. Employers are obligated under OSHA regulations to provide a safe working environment for their employees, which includes assessing the workplace for hazards and determining the necessary PPE to protect employees from those hazards. This responsibility encompasses ensuring that employees are trained on how to properly use the PPE, that the equipment is available and maintained, and that the requirements for using the PPE are clearly communicated.

Employers play a crucial role in establishing safety protocols, which includes the use of PPE, to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses. While workers and employees have roles in following safety guidelines and utilizing the provided equipment, the ultimate duty to enforce and require the usage of proper PPE lies with the employer. This ensures a systematic approach to workplace safety and compliance with OSHA standards.