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The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992
Overview
In the realm of occupational health and safety, one crucial aspect is the provision and use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). PPE plays a vital role in safeguarding employees against workplace hazards, reducing the risk of injury or illness. In the United Kingdom, the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 is a key legislation that outlines the requirements and responsibilities for employers and employees regarding the provision, usage, and maintenance of PPE.
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 were introduced in the UK to implement the European Union Directive on the use of PPE in the workplace (Directive 89/656/EEC). These regulations aim to ensure that employers provide suitable PPE to their employees and that employees are trained and instructed in its proper use.
Key Requirements of the Regulations include:
- Risk Assessment: Employers must conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify hazards in the workplace that require the use of PPE. The assessment should consider factors such as the nature of the work, potential risks, and the effectiveness of alternative control measures.
- Provision of Suitable PPE: Employers are responsible for providing appropriate PPE to employees free of charge. PPE should be suitable for the specific hazards and working conditions, and it should conform to relevant safety standards.
- Employee Training and Instruction: Employers must ensure that employees receive adequate training and instruction on the correct use, storage, and maintenance of PPE. Employees should understand why PPE is necessary, how to wear it properly, and when to replace or repair damaged equipment.
- Maintenance and Storage: Employers should maintain PPE in good working order, ensuring regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs if necessary. Proper storage facilities should be provided to protect PPE from damage and contamination.
- Employee Cooperation: Employees have a duty to cooperate with their employers by correctly using the provided PPE, attending training sessions, reporting any defects or damage, and following maintenance guidelines.
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 were made on the 25th of November 1992 and came into force on the 1st of January 1993.
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 apply to the following countries:
- United Kingdom;
- England;
- Scotland;
- Wales; and
- Northern Ireland.

Do the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 affect my business?
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 impose several obligations on businesses. Compliance with these regulations is not only a legal requirement but also essential for ensuring employee safety and reducing the risk of workplace accidents. Businesses must allocate resources for conducting risk assessments, procuring suitable PPE, delivering training programs, and maintaining a record of PPE provision and maintenance. Failure to comply with the regulations can lead to legal consequences, reputational damage, and, most importantly, harm to employees.
By prioritising employee safety through the implementation of these regulations, businesses can create a safer working environment and promote a culture of safety throughout their organisations.
Do I need the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 in my ISO Compliance Register?
The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 apply to a wide range of industries and sectors. Any business that involves activities where there are risks to employees’ health and safety that cannot be adequately controlled by other means should comply with these regulations, and should therefore include the regulations in their ISO Compliance Register. This includes but is not limited to:
- Construction and Engineering: Businesses involved in construction, infrastructure development, and engineering projects where hazards like falling objects, chemical exposure, noise, or physical injuries are present.
- Manufacturing and Industrial: Companies operating in manufacturing facilities, factories, and industrial settings that deal with machinery, chemicals, noise, or other occupational hazards.
- Healthcare: Hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities where medical personnel and support staff may be exposed to biological hazards, infectious diseases, or other health risks.
- Agriculture and Farming: Farms and agricultural businesses where employees are exposed to hazards like machinery accidents, chemical exposures, or manual handling risks.
- Hospitality and Catering: Restaurants, hotels, and catering services that may require PPE for handling hazardous substances, working with hot surfaces, or dealing with potentially harmful substances.
- Laboratories: Research facilities, testing laboratories, and scientific institutions where employees may be exposed to chemical, biological, or radiological hazards.
- Oil and Gas Industry: Companies involved in oil and gas exploration, drilling, refining, and transportation, where employees face risks such as fire, explosions, chemical exposure, and physical injuries.
- Transportation and Logistics: Businesses in the transportation and logistics sector, including warehouses, shipping companies, and delivery services, where employees may be exposed to hazards such as heavy lifting, moving machinery, or hazardous materials.
Legislation related to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992
Legislation related to the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 include:
- Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
- The Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 2002
- The Personal Protective Equipment (Enforcement) Regulations 2018
- Coronavirus Act 2020
More information
Visit the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 article on the legislation.gov.uk website.
Create an account in the ISO Compliance Register App and add this article to your Register.