On December 11, 2024, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) announced it finalized a revision to the personal protective equipment (PPE) standard for the construction industry. The final rule adds specific language to the existing standard requiring employers to provide properly fitting PPE for construction industry workers. This change aligns the construction industry with the standards in place for the general industry.
According to OSHA, many types of PPE must properly fit workers. Improperly sized PPE can ineffectively protect workers, creating new hazards for them, such as oversized gloves or protective clothing being caught in machinery and discouraging use because of discomfort or poor fit.
Starting in January, construction employers must give their workers well-fitting safety gear. Among other equipment, this includes gloves, high-visibility vests, goggles, fall protection harnesses, and helmets that “properly fit” the workers. However, the final rule does not provide clear guidance on how employers or workers determine if PPE properly fits. The PPE final rule will still be subject to the Congressional Review Act and thus subject to being overturned.
