PPE Management Checklist for Trades & Construction
A checklist for managing the selection, provision, maintenance, and use of personal protective equipment in the workplace.
Compliant with Safe Work Australia requirements, state WHS legislation, and Building Code of Australia (NCC) documentation standards.
Complete Checklist
- 1Review the PPE requirements based on current risk assessments for each roleCritical
- 2Check that adequate stock of all required PPE is availableCritical
- 3Verify that PPE meets the relevant Australian Standards for its intended purposeCritical
- 4Inspect all reusable PPE for damage, wear, or deterioration
- 5Replace any PPE that is damaged, expired, or no longer fit for purpose
- 6Confirm that PPE has been correctly fitted to each worker who requires it
- 7Verify that workers have been trained in the correct use and care of their PPECritical
- 8Check that PPE storage areas are clean, dry, and protect equipment from damage
- 9Review PPE cleaning and maintenance procedures and confirm compliance
- 10Observe workers during tasks to confirm PPE is being worn correctlyCritical
- 11Address any instances of workers not wearing required PPE
- 12Assess whether alternative PPE options could improve comfort and compliance
- 13Review the PPE issue register and confirm all assignments are recorded
- 14Check that signage indicating PPE requirements is displayed in relevant areas
- 15Job card the PPE review and update the PPE matrix as needed
Frequently Asked Questions
What Australian Standards apply to common types of PPE?
Key standards include AS/NZS 1716 for respiratory protective devices, AS/NZS 1337 for eye and face protection, AS/NZS 1270 for hearing protectors, AS/NZS 2161 for occupational protective gloves, AS/NZS 2210 for safety footwear, and AS/NZS 4399 for sun protective clothing. Always verify that PPE carries the appropriate standards marking before purchasing and ensure it is suitable for the specific hazard.
Who is responsible for providing PPE in an Australian workplace?
The person conducting a business or undertaking must provide PPE to workers at no cost if it is needed to protect them from workplace hazards. This includes ensuring the PPE is suitable, properly fitted, maintained, and replaced when necessary. Workers have a responsibility to use PPE as instructed and report any damage or issues. Contractors may need to provide their own PPE depending on the arrangement.
How do we ensure workers actually wear their PPE?
Start with involving workers in the selection of PPE so it is comfortable and practical. Provide thorough training on why the PPE is needed, not just how to use it. Make PPE easily accessible where it is needed. Lead by example with management wearing PPE in required areas. Address non-compliance promptly through coaching first and disciplinary measures if necessary. Regularly ask for feedback on PPE comfort.
Need help implementing these checks into your daily operations?
Our team can build custom checklists integrated into your daily operations workflow.