Not all PPE is created equal — and using the wrong equipment for a task can create a false sense of security. This guide covers head protection classes, respirator selection, cut-resistant gloves, and high-visibility requirements.
PPE is the last line of defense — not the first. But when engineering controls and administrative controls have been applied and a residual hazard remains, the right PPE can mean the difference between a minor incident and a fatality. The key word is "right."
Head Protection: Class A, B, and C Explained
- 1Class A (Type I/II) — General service, limited voltage protection. Most common on construction sites.
- 2Class E — Electrical work, rated to 20,000 volts. Required for work near electrical hazards.
- 3Class C — No electrical protection. Bump caps are not Class A/B/C and are not OSHA-compliant hard hats.
- 4Type I — Top impact only. Type II — Top and side impact. Use Type II for areas with lateral impact risk.
Respirator Selection: The Hazard Determines the Respirator
Dust masks (N95 filtering facepieces) are not the same as respirators for chemical vapors. An N95 protects against particulates only. Solvent work, spray painting, confined spaces, or chemical handling may require a half-mask or full-face air-purifying respirator with the correct cartridge type — or in some cases, supplied-air.
Tip: Conduct a Hazard Assessment first. Before selecting PPE, identify every hazard on the task list. Match each hazard to the appropriate PPE category. Review the manufacturer's specifications to confirm the equipment is rated for your specific hazard.
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