Posted By Frank Cooper Some worksites insist on a "blanket" approach to PPE i.e. "All PPE must be worn at all times on this site". This seems to be applicable regardless of any risk assessments or safe systems of work that may well be in place. Whilst the PPE regs state that PPE should be used as a last resort when all other means of reducing risk (either by engineering controls or safe systems of work have been exhausted) surely the wearing of PPE just for the sake of complying with general site requirements brings the whole subject of PPE into disrepute? Opinions, please.

Posted By Charley Farley-Trelawney Where I agree with you on this Frank, is I get concerned that a blanket cover takes away the proper and correct thought process to identify what is really required. Blanket policies by the very nature of what they are can introduce hazards when time spent on the issue would ensure what was required would and should be worn. CFT

Posted By Chris Packham As I understand it, one of the regulatory requirements for personal protective equipment is that the user has to have received adequate training in the correct use of the PPE. I find it difficult to envisage how this can be compatible with the blanket approach. Chris

Posted By Peter Longworth I think it depends on the type of work undertaken. Where I work We have a mandatory requirement for safety shoes in all production areas. This doesn't mean that every production area has the same level of risk, but it does allow employees to be transferred from one area to another without too much trouble. Similarly, because a lot of the work involves handling metal components we have a mandatory requirement for employees to wear gloves, unless a risk assessment has found that this is not necessary. This doesn't mean however that we only rely on gloves and safety shoes to provide protection. We also provide handling aids such as hoists, vacuum lifts etc and we do a lot of work on die set maintenance to eliminate burred edges on components.

Posted By Andy Brazier My view is that blanket rules work very well for hard hats, safety shoes and overalls. This is because none of these restricts the wearer too much, and there is little opportunity to select the wrong type of PPE. They work less well in other cases. For example, a blanket rule to wear light-eye protection can mean people think their eyes are protected and neglect to put goggles on when required. Also, gloves because people start to think that one pair of gloves will protect them against all types of hazard. Also, I dislike blanket rules for hearing protection because this has such an impact on communication. Where a blanket rule applies, the requirements should not be repeated in procedures, permits-to-work etc. These should only list PPE that is in addition or instead of the blanket PPE. Also, people issuing procedures and permits must ensure they only list appropriate PPE. It is very easy just to write on them all that goggles must be worn. People start to realise this is pointless in many cases, and ignore the requirements even when it is necessary.

Posted By Dave Wilson Safety Goggles and Gloves is now creeping in on quite a few construction sites irrespective of your trade. Sparkies wearing gloves with the fingers cut off!