PPE Hazard Assessment: What OSHA 1910.132 Requires

PPE Hazard Assessment: What OSHA 1910.132 Requires

Quick answer: Before relying on personal protective equipment, OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.132 requires the employer to assess the workplace for hazards, select appropriate PPE, and certify the assessment in writing. Employees must then be trained on what PPE to use, when, and how. PPE is the last line of defense — used after engineering and work-practice controls.

The Written Certification

The hazard assessment isn't just a walk-through — it must be documented. The written certification must identify the workplace evaluated, the person certifying that the assessment was performed, and the date(s) of the assessment.

How to Perform the Assessment

1. Walk through each work area and task.
2. Identify hazards by category: impact, penetration, compression, chemical, heat, harmful dust, light/radiation, and noise.
3. Select PPE that matches each hazard (eye, face, head, hand, foot, hearing, respiratory).
4. Certify the assessment in writing.
5. Train employees and document it.

What Training Must Cover

• When PPE is necessary and what type.
• How to properly don, doff, adjust, and wear it.
• The limitations of the PPE.
• Proper care, maintenance, useful life, and disposal.

Employees must demonstrate understanding before doing work requiring PPE, and be retrained when conditions or equipment change.

Remember the Hierarchy of Controls

PPE is the last resort. Where feasible, eliminate or engineer out the hazard first (guards, ventilation, substitution). PPE protects the individual but does nothing to remove the hazard itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the assessment really have to be written?

Yes — a written certification identifying the workplace, the evaluator, and the date is explicitly required.

How often should I reassess?

Whenever processes, equipment, or materials change, and as part of periodic safety reviews.