PPE Compliance Check
A procedure for verifying that personal protective equipment (PPE) is correctly selected, available, maintained, and used by workers in accordance with WHS requirements.
Purpose
To ensure PPE is the correct type for identified hazards, properly fitted, maintained in good condition, and used correctly by all workers, meeting the obligations under WHS regulations.
Scope
Covers all PPE used in the workplace including head, eye, hearing, respiratory, hand, foot, and body protection. Applies to all workers and contractors who are required to wear PPE.
Prerequisites
- Risk assessments completed identifying PPE requirements for each task and area
- PPE selection aligned with relevant Australian Standards (e.g. AS/NZS 1337, AS/NZS 1715)
- PPE register documenting issued equipment, sizes, and replacement schedules
- Workers trained in correct PPE selection, use, fitting, and maintenance
Step-by-Step Procedure
Review PPE Requirements Against Risk Assessments
Confirm that PPE requirements are based on current risk assessments and that the selected PPE is appropriate for the identified hazards.
- 1.1Review risk assessments for each task, area, and hazard type
- 1.2Verify PPE selections match the hazard type, level, and Australian Standard requirements
- 1.3Check that higher-level controls have been applied before relying on PPE
Inspect PPE Condition and Availability
Physically inspect PPE stock and individually issued items to confirm they are in serviceable condition and readily available.
- 2.1Check all PPE for damage, wear, or deterioration — cracks, tears, discolouration
- 2.2Verify PPE is within its service life or expiry date
- 2.3Confirm adequate stock of consumable PPE — gloves, disposable masks, earplugs
- 2.4Ensure PPE storage areas are clean, dry, and accessible
- Check that safety eyewear lenses are not scratched or fogged, which reduces effectiveness
Verify Worker PPE Usage in the Field
Observe workers during their tasks to confirm they are wearing the correct PPE, it is properly fitted, and they are using it correctly.
- 3.1Observe workers across different areas and shifts
- 3.2Check that the correct type and class of PPE is being worn for each task
- 3.3Verify PPE is properly fitted — hard hats adjusted, respirators sealed, gloves sized
- 3.4Note any workers not wearing required PPE or wearing it incorrectly
- Speak with workers about comfort and fit — uncomfortable PPE is more likely to be worn incorrectly or removed
Review Fit Testing and Training Records
Verify that workers have undergone required fit testing (for respiratory protection) and have received training on PPE use, care, and limitations.
- 4.1Check respiratory fit test records for all workers required to wear tight-fitting respirators
- 4.2Review training records for PPE induction and task-specific PPE training
- 4.3Identify any workers with expired training or missing fit tests
Record Findings and Non-Conformances
Document all findings from the PPE compliance check, including non-conformances, and assign corrective actions.
- 5.1Record all observations — compliant and non-compliant items
- 5.2Issue corrective actions for non-conformances with owners and due dates
- 5.3Replace damaged or expired PPE immediately
- 5.4Escalate systemic issues — recurring non-compliance, inadequate PPE type
Follow Up and Close Out Actions
Monitor corrective actions to completion and verify PPE compliance has been restored.
- 6.1Track corrective action completion
- 6.2Conduct follow-up observations to verify workers are compliant
- 6.3Update the PPE register and inspection records
- 6.4Report compliance status in the WHS monthly report
Quality Checkpoints
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Expected Outcomes
Percentage of workers observed wearing correct and properly fitted PPE during compliance checks
Percentage of inspected PPE items found to be in serviceable condition and within service life
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should PPE be inspected?
PPE should be inspected before each use by the wearer and formally inspected at regular intervals as part of the PPE compliance check. The frequency depends on the type of PPE and the working conditions — monthly checks are common for most workplaces.
Can workers choose their own PPE?
Workers should be consulted on PPE selection to ensure comfort and fit, but the final selection must meet the requirements identified in the risk assessment and comply with the relevant Australian Standard. Workers cannot substitute PPE that does not meet the minimum requirements.
What is fit testing and when is it required?
Fit testing is a procedure to verify that a tight-fitting respirator forms an adequate seal on the wearer's face. It is required under AS/NZS 1715 for all workers who need to wear tight-fitting respiratory protective equipment. Fit testing should be conducted initially and whenever there is a change in respirator type, size, or the wearer's facial features.
Who pays for PPE in the workplace?
Under WHS legislation, the PCBU (employer) must provide PPE to workers at no cost if PPE is required to manage risks. Workers must not be charged for PPE that is necessary to perform their work safely.
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