Toolbox talk, Equipment, about 5 minutes
PPE inspection
Date
Site or job
Led by
Why this one
PPE is the last layer between you and the hazard. Gear that is cracked, stretched, stiff or dirty to the point of not working won't protect you when it's needed. A look before the shift takes a minute.
Say this
- 1.Look at your PPE before every shift. Not every month. It's yours, so you're the one who knows what it looked like yesterday.
- 2.Hard hats: check the shell and the suspension for cracks, dents and wear. Replace on the maker's schedule or after a hard hit.
- 3.Eye and face protection: scratched, cracked or fogged lenses don't protect you. Replace them.
- 4.Gloves: holes, cuts, burns and chemical damage all mean replace. Use the glove for the task, not just any glove.
- 5.Harness and lanyard: look at the webbing, stitching, buckles and hardware. Damaged or after a fall means out of service.
- 6.Boots, hearing protection and respirator parts: check for wear, fit and cleanliness, per the maker.
- 7.Damaged PPE gets tagged and replaced, not patched. Tell your lead and get a new one.
Ask the crew
- – What PPE do you wear that wears out faster than people think?
- – Have you ever had PPE fail or not fit, and what happened?
- – Where do you go to swap out damaged gear on this site, and is it easy enough?
Watch for today
- Hard hats with cracks, stickers over cracks or old, faded shells.
- Harnesses with frayed webbing or damaged hardware still in use.
- Safety glasses pushed up on the head or lenses too scratched to see through.
Close with: Look at your gear before it has to work for you.
Notes and questions raised
Name (print)
Signature
Initials
A starting point. Adapt it to your job, your procedures and the rules that apply to you. portalbaseai.com/toolbox-talks