PPE Requirements

Minimum site PPE, task-specific PPE selector, hearing protection levels, and RPE selection by hazard.

Minimum Site PPE (All Construction Sites)

  • Safety Helmet — BS EN 397. Replace every 3–5 years; replace immediately after any significant impact.
  • Safety Boots — BS EN ISO 20345 (S1P or higher: steel/composite toe cap + midsole penetration protection).
  • Hi-Vis Vest/Jacket — BS EN ISO 20471. Class 2 minimum; Class 3 for roadside work.
  • Safety Glasses — BS EN 166. Clear lens for general use; tinted for outdoor/high-glare work.
  • Gloves — BS EN 388. General-purpose cut-resistant for handling materials.

All PPE must be CE or UKCA marked and provided free by the employer (PPE at Work Regulations 2022).

Task-Specific Additional PPE

  • Cutting/grinding (angle grinder): + face shield + hearing protection + FFP3 dust mask
  • Breaking concrete/masonry: + FFP3 mask (silica risk) + hearing protection + knee pads
  • Drilling overhead: + face shield + head protection upgrade
  • Excavation work: + hi-vis + safety boots (midsole protection) + hard hat
  • Scaffold work: + harness if risk of fall over open edge
  • Confined space: + gas monitor + rescue plan + comms device
  • Hot work: + heat-resistant gloves + fire extinguisher within reach

All tasks require standard site PPE as a minimum (helmet, boots, hi-vis, glasses).

Hearing Protection — Noise Levels

  • Lower Action Level (80 dB): employer must provide hearing protection on request.
  • Upper Action Level (85 dB): hearing protection is MANDATORY.
  • Exposure Limit Value (87 dB): must NOT be exceeded (measured at ear with protection).

Typical noise levels: SDS hammer drill 95–105 dB(A); angle grinder 95–110 dB(A); breaker/jackhammer 100–115 dB(A) — all require mandatory ear defenders.

Respiratory Protection (RPE) by Hazard

  • General construction dust — FFP2 mask (BS EN 149)
  • Silica dust (cutting/breaking concrete, brick, stone) — FFP3 mask (BS EN 149)
  • Asbestos (suspected) — STOP WORK; do not disturb; check asbestos register; report to supervisor; await competent advice (CAR 2012)
  • Wood dust (hardwood) — FFP3 mask (carcinogen — reduce ALARP)
  • Solvent fumes / paints — A2 filter half-mask (BS EN 140 + BS EN 14387)
  • Confined space (low O₂) — self-contained breathing apparatus (BS EN 137)

FFP = Filtering Face Piece. FFP3 is the highest particulate protection. RPE must be face-fit tested for the individual wearer.

PPE Lifespan & Replacement

  • Safety Helmet: 3–5 years (replace if cracked, faded, dented, or past expiry)
  • Safety Boots: 6–12 months (replace if sole worn, toe cap exposed, stitching failed)
  • Hi-Vis Clothing: when faded (reflective strips, tears, contamination)
  • Hearing Defenders: 2–3 years (replace if damaged cushions or broken headband)
  • FFP3 Masks: single use
  • Fall Harness: 5–10 years (replace after any damage, deployed shock absorber, or failed inspection)

Defective PPE must be taken out of service immediately and reported to the supervisor. Do not repair PPE yourself.

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