What is the primary responsibility of an employee regarding personal protective equipment (PPE)?

The primary responsibility of an employee regarding personal protective equipment (PPE) is to maintain it in good condition. Proper maintenance of PPE is crucial to ensure it is effective in protecting the user from potential hazards in the workplace. This includes regular inspections, cleaning, repairs, and replacing damaged or worn-out equipment. When PPE is well-maintained, it functions as intended, thereby reducing the risk of injury or illness resulting from workplace hazards.

While style and comfort are considerations when choosing PPE, they do not take precedence over the crucial aspect of maintaining its protective qualities. Training others on its usage is important, but primarily falls under the responsibility of supervisors or safety officers rather than individual employees. Modifying PPE for better comfort can compromise its effectiveness, so it is not recommended unless directed by safety regulations or manufacturers.