What main factor should the choice of personal protective equipment (PPE) depend on?

The choice of personal protective equipment (PPE) is primarily based on the identified workplace hazards. This is crucial because PPE is specifically designed to protect workers from the various risks and dangers present in their work environment. Different hazards, such as electrical, chemical, mechanical, or biological risks, require different types of protective gear to ensure the safety and well-being of workers.

For instance, in an electrical workplace, the potential for hazards like electrical arcs or shock necessitates specialized PPE, including insulated gloves and arc-rated clothing. By focusing on the specific hazards present, employers can ensure that they provide appropriate PPE that effectively mitigates those risks. This ensures not only compliance with safety regulations but also fosters a safer working environment.

While company policies, budget constraints, and job types play roles in the overall safety strategy, they are secondary to the critical importance of addressing the identified hazards that workers face daily. Assessing workplace hazards helps in the selection of the right PPE that will provide effective protection and reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries.