Posted By David Scott If your risk assessment indicates that working outside in inclement weather is essential then the simple answer must be Yes! Environmental conditions of the work undertaken must be considered and protection provided appropriate to that hazard. Wet, cold employees can lead to accidents and unless you protect your employees by following the normal procedures then you could have a problem. Remember that the PPE provided must also be suitable and fit them properly!

Posted By Steve Nelson David is "spot on". The guidance associated with the PPE Regs says: Items such as uniforms provided for the primary purpose of presenting a corporate image, and ordinary working clothes, are not subject to these Regulations. Likewise the Regulations will not apply to ‘protective clothing’ provided in the food industry primarily for food hygiene purposes. However where any uniform or clothing protects against a specific risk to health and safety, for example high visibility clothing worn by emergency services, it will be subject to the Regulations. Waterproof, weatherproof or insulated clothing is subject to the Regulations if it is worn to protect employees against risks to their health or safety, but not otherwise. I work as H&S officer/advisor in Environment Agency where many of our employees work outdoors. We supply breathable wet weather gear (jackets & trousers), fleeces, gloves & warm socks for cold weather. We also supply hats, insect repellent, sun [blocking] cream, & water botles to our field-workers in the summer.

Posted By Andy Kirsty, The reason some responses appear a little harsh may be that you are not being specific. Are you part contributing to the cost of basic footwear, which is illegal, or covering the cost of basic footwear and allowing your employee to add to this to purchase stylish or branded types which is ok? The question you should be asking is: Is the PPE adequate, available and suitable, ie always there, sufficient protection and of the right size, you do not need to issue seperate coats to every employee unless every employee is likley to be oustide at the same time. Several sets of varying sizes should be ok in my opinion. Saying this, how many staff do you have that are likley to go outside, if 5, issue to each, if 100, provide enough sets to cover. If the PPE is not issued to a person, do they look after it in the same way as if it were their own? answer: probably not. You will have to make you own choice. Good luck. regards Andrew.

Posted By Kirsty Bryson First time I have used the forum, reading my post I can see that it is pretty vague. I am however clearer about what we do and what we may need to improve/look at as a result of the answers to my questions. Thanks to all who offered advice. Kirsty