PPE Inspection Checklist

Personal protective equipment includes products worn or held to protect users against workplace risks. This can include helmets, gloves, footwear, hearing protection, eye protection and fall-protection equipment. Read the official definition of PPE.

PPE should be selected through a risk assessment and used alongside other workplace controls. It should never be treated as a substitute for removing or reducing a hazard where that is reasonably possible.

Begin With a Hazard Assessment

The correct PPE depends on the work being performed.

Identify:

• The source of the hazard
• The body areas potentially exposed
• The likely severity of an incident
• How often exposure occurs
• Whether several hazards exist simultaneously
• Whether different PPE items interfere with each other

Product markings, instructions and documentation should be reviewed before purchase or use.

Safety Helmets

Inspect the helmet shell for cracks, deep scratches, deformation, discolouration and signs of chemical or heat damage.

Check the suspension, adjustment system and chin strap. Components should fit securely and operate as intended.

A helmet that has sustained a significant impact should be removed from service, even if external damage is not immediately visible.

Safety Footwear

Check safety shoes and boots for:

• Worn or separating soles
• Damaged toe areas
• Exposed protective components
• Split stitching
• Cracked uppers
• Reduced grip
• Contamination that may affect performance

The footwear should fit correctly and provide protection appropriate to the surface and task.

Protective Gloves

Gloves should match the hazard rather than simply the job title. Cut risks, abrasion, chemicals, heat and handling tasks may require different materials and constructions.

Before use, check for holes, tears, worn coatings, damaged seams and contamination. Replace gloves when their protective surface is compromised.

Hearing Protection

Inspect ear defenders for cracked cups, damaged headbands and hardened or deteriorated cushions. The cushions should create a consistent seal around the ear.

Dirty or damaged components can affect comfort and performance. Clean and replace parts according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Fall-Protection Harnesses

Fall-protection equipment requires careful inspection before every use.

Examine:

• Webbing for cuts, burns, fraying and chemical damage
• Stitching for broken or loose threads
• Buckles and adjusters for distortion or corrosion
• Attachment rings for cracks or deformation
• Labels and inspection information
• Compatibility with connecting equipment

Equipment involved in a fall should be immediately removed from service and assessed according to the manufacturer’s requirements.

Store PPE Correctly

Poor storage can damage equipment before it is used. Keep PPE clean, dry and protected from direct sunlight, chemicals, sharp objects and extreme temperatures.

Do not modify, drill, paint or repair protective equipment unless the manufacturer explicitly permits it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should PPE be inspected?

Users should perform a visual and functional check before use. Formal inspection frequency should follow the risk assessment, applicable requirements and manufacturer’s instructions.

Can damaged PPE be repaired?

Only when the manufacturer permits an approved repair. Improvised repairs may reduce protection and invalidate product certification.

Does PPE have a fixed expiry date?

Some products have defined service-life or expiry information, while others are replaced according to condition and use. Always follow the manufacturer’s documentation.

Who is responsible for choosing PPE?

PPE should be selected by someone competent to assess the hazard, task, environment, compatibility and needs of the wearer.

Explore RIFSIGN helmets, safety footwear, gloves, hearing protection and fall-protection equipment for professional applications.