OSHA requires its inspectors to review the employer's Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) hazard assessment and to evaluate effective use and training.

In the Biden administration, more attention is paid to occupational health issues and exposure to substances including crystalline silica, hexavalent chromium, lead, asbestos, and physical hazards such as falls and noise exposure.

OSHA is also in the process of revising its Hazard Communication Standard to adopt a new version of the UN's Global Harmonization System, which will require Safety Data Sheet revisions to evaluate new PPE needs and worker training. The agency is also developing a rule to ensure that all workers are provided with appropriately fitting PPE regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race.

PPE also raises some issues under the Americans with Disabilities Act which, in many cases, must be accommodated by employers.

This presentation will provide employers and workers with the information they need to meet OSHA PPE obligations and go beyond minimum compliance in protecting workers.What You'll Learn:Overview

• Definition of PPE and Types
  
• Mandatory PPE Use
  
• Voluntary PPE Use
  
• Applicable OSHA Regulations (Summary)
  
• OSHA Enforcement Hot Spots

PPE Hazard Assessment and Training

• OSHA Regulatory Requirements
  
• Pending Revisions for PPE in Construction
  
• Pending Revisions to General Industry Fall Protection PPE
  
• General Developments on OSHA Health Standards Impacting PPE

PPE Written Plans and Other Issues

• Expected Exposures and Worker Protections
  
• Link Between PPE and Hazard Communication SDS's
  
• Addressing Language Barriers
  
• Respiratory Protection, Medical Evaluations, and Fit Testing
  
• Hearing Conservation Programs

Conclusion

• Effective Training, Reporting, and Documentation Practices
  
• Proactive Strategies for Effective PPE Training, Use, and Management