One of the most common questions we hear is some version of "do we actually need this, or is it just a good idea?" The honest answer is that required PPE comes from a proper hazard assessment of your specific tasks — there's no universal list that applies to every workplace equally.
How required PPE gets determined
In general, an employer is expected to assess the workplace for hazards that PPE could address — things like flying particles, chemical splashes, falling objects, electrical exposure, or loud equipment — and then select PPE that matches those specific hazards. That assessment, done properly, is what turns "recommended" into "required" for your site.
Common categories by body area
| Body area | Typical hazard | Common PPE |
|---|---|---|
| Head | Falling or overhead objects | Hard hats |
| Eyes | Flying particles, chemical splash | Safety glasses, goggles |
| Hands | Cuts, chemical contact, machinery | Work gloves |
| Feet | Falling objects, punctures | Steel or composite toe boots |
| Hearing | Sustained equipment noise | Earmuffs or plugs |
| Respiratory | Dust, fumes, particulates | N95 or other rated respirators |
What tends to be recommended rather than required
High-visibility apparel in low-traffic office settings, for example, is often good practice rather than a strict requirement. The line depends heavily on your specific layout and traffic patterns — which is exactly why a generic list can only get you so far.
Where to start
Run our free hazard identifier with a description of your setting and main activities to get a starter list, then confirm with a qualified safety professional before treating anything as final for your site.