The Importance of Properly Fitting PPE: Ensuring Safety and Comfort on the Job

In the world of health and safety, personal protective equipment (PPE) plays a vital role in safeguarding workers from hazards that can lead to serious injuries or illnesses. Whether it’s a hard hat, safety goggles, gloves, or respiratory protection, PPE is the frontline defense for individuals in hazardous environments. However, one key factor that often gets overlooked is the fit of the PPE. Ill-fitting PPE can significantly reduce its effectiveness, putting workers at risk and defeating the purpose of the equipment.

Ontario has recognized this issue and made changes to the regulations governing workplace safety. Section 21 of Ontario Regulation 213/91 has been amended to include the following important update: “Personal protective clothing and equipment that is provided, worn, or used shall be a proper fit, having regard to all relevant factors including body types.”

This addition emphasizes the need for properly fitted PPE, acknowledging that workers come in different shapes and sizes, and PPE must accommodate these variations to ensure maximum protection.

Why Does Ill-Fitting PPE Happen?

There are several reasons why workers might end up with PPE that doesn’t fit properly, many of which stem from gaps in the procurement and distribution process:

1. Lack of Knowledge by the Person Ordering
Often, the person responsible for ordering PPE may not have enough knowledge about the specific sizing and fit requirements for different types of equipment. They might rely solely on standard sizes or fail to account for the unique body types and needs of individual workers. For instance, ordering gloves in one generic size assumes that “one size fits all,” which can lead to gloves being too tight or too loose for many workers.

2. Cost and Time Pressures
Sometimes, the pressure to reduce costs or meet deadlines can lead to decisions that prioritize speed over proper fit. Companies may opt for bulk orders of standard sizes, hoping to save time and money, without considering that improperly fitting PPE might need to be replaced or adjusted later, leading to higher costs and risks in the long run.

3. Worker Hesitation
In some cases, workers themselves may feel uncomfortable or hesitant to request different sizes or types of PPE. They may worry about being perceived as difficult or demanding, especially if they are in a male-dominated or hierarchical work environment.

The Dangers of Ill-Fitting PPE

Wearing PPE that doesn’t fit properly can create more hazards than it mitigates. Here are some specific safety risks that arise from ill-fitting equipment:

1. Loose-Fitting PPE Can Get Caught in Machinery
Loose clothing, gloves, or harnesses can easily become entangled in machinery, posing a serious risk of injury. For example, a worker wearing a harness that is too large might find the excess material caught in moving parts, leading to falls or other accidents.

2. Improper Respiratory Protection
Respirators that don’t form a tight seal around the nose and mouth can allow harmful dust, gases, or other contaminants to enter the lungs. For example, during asbestos removal, a respirator that is too large or too small could fail to protect a worker from inhaling dangerous fibers.

3. Reduced Mobility and Dexterity
Gloves that are too large can make it difficult for workers to handle tools safely, while boots that don’t fit snugly can lead to slips and falls. PPE that restricts movement or hampers visibility also increases the likelihood of accidents.

4. Increased Fatigue and Discomfort
Ill-fitting PPE is often uncomfortable, causing workers to shift their focus from the task at hand to constantly readjusting their equipment. This can lead to fatigue, reduced concentration, and mistakes. For instance, wearing an overly tight helmet for an extended period can cause headaches and reduce a worker’s ability to focus.

Overcoming Barriers to Properly Fitting PPE

Ensuring that PPE fits properly doesn’t have to be a challenge. Companies can overcome the barriers by implementing a few best practices:
• Training for Those Ordering PPE: Provide training for staff responsible for procuring PPE so they understand the importance of proper fit and the sizing options available.
• Consultation with Workers: Involve workers in the selection process to ensure that the PPE chosen meets their needs and fits them comfortably.
• Fit Testing: For certain types of PPE, such as respirators, conducting a fit test is essential to ensure proper protection. This should be a routine part of the PPE distribution process.

How BuildSafe Can Help in Purchasing Right PPE for Your Workforce?

At BuildSafe, we understand the challenges that come with selecting and fitting PPE properly. Our team of experts is here to guide you through the process of purchasing the right PPE for your workforce. We can assist with everything from helping you understand sizing to conducting fit tests for your workers, ensuring they have the best protection possible.

Don’t let ill-fitting PPE compromise your workers’ safety. Reach out to BuildSafe today and ensure your team is equipped with properly fitting gear for a safer and more productive work environment!