Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

WHY PPE MATTERS

Imagine losing your hearing, eyesight, or a limb – what would you miss out on?

• Listening to your favourite band
• Watching your child take their first steps
• Playing sport or supporting your footy team

Workplace incidents still cause these types of injuries, but proper PPE dramatically reduces

risk.

Common PPE includes:

• Steel cap footwear
• High-visibility clothing or vests
• Gloves
• Safety glasses
• Hearing protection
• Hard hats
• Masks
• Sunscreen & broad-brimmed hats

PPE is not optional, it’s your personal safeguard.

YOUR PPE RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Wear the required PPE for your role or task at all times.
2. Maintain your PPE – report damage or incorrect fitting to your supervisor or IRP consultant.3. 
3. Understand its use – ask if unsure how to use any PPE safely.
4. Participate in safety – a safer workplace depends on everyone committing to safety.

Remember: PPE is just one layer of protection, your awareness and responsible behaviour complete the safety system.

THE HIERARCHY OF CONTROL

The Hierarchy of Control is a system used to minimise or eliminate exposure to hazards, ranked from most effective to least effective:

1. Eliminate the Hazard
2. Substitute the Hazard
3. Isolate the Hazard
4. Use Engineering Controls
5. Use Administrative Controls
6. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE is effective, but it’s the last line of defence. Where possible, hazards should be eliminated or controlled through higher levels of the hierarchy.

MAKE THE SAFE CHOICE

It’s a simple decision: wear your PPE not because someone tells you to, but because it could save your:

• Fingers
• Hearing
• Eyesight
• Life

Do it for yourself, your family, and your teammates.

QUICK QUIZ

1. Why is PPE considered the last line of defence?
2. Name 3 examples of PPE commonly used on site.
3. What should you do if your PPE is damaged or doesn’t fit properly?
4. Where does PPE sit in the Hierarchy of Control?

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• PPE is your last line of defence against workplace injuries.
• Wearing and maintaining PPE can prevent serious injuries, including loss of hearing, eyesight, or even life.
• The Hierarchy of Control helps identify the most effective ways to manage workplace hazards.
• Safety is a shared responsibility, your PPE protects you and those around you.