PROPOSED CHANGES TO CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT STANDARD

Photo Credit: U.S. Memories

By Terence A. Curran Jr., ABC CF Safety Committee Chair, The Amphibious Group

The U.S. Department of Labor has recently taken an interesting step towards enhancing workplace safety in the construction industry by announcing a notice of proposed rulemaking. The proposal aims to clarify the standards for personal protective equipment (PPE) in construction, specifically focusing on the importance of ensuring that PPE fits each affected employee properly.

The current PPE standard for the construction industry covers a wide range of safety measures, it does not explicitly state the requirement for PPE to fit each employee properly. This proposed change is seeking to address this gap by emphasizing the crucial aspect of proper fitting to effectively protect workers from potential occupational hazards.

Interestingly enough, currently OSHA’s general industry and maritime standards do include clear provisions stating that PPE must fit each affected employee correctly. The proposed revision seeks to align the construction industry’s PPE standard with these existing standards, promoting uniformity and consistency in worker protection across various sectors.

The potential hazard of standard-sized PPE not adequately protecting physically smaller construction workers, as well as difficulties in accessing properly fitting equipment, has long been a concern in the industry. This problem has been particularly significant for some women in construction. The proposed rule aims to address these challenges by clarifying the requirement for appropriate PPE fitting and ensuring that all workers, irrespective of gender or size, receive the protection they need while on the job.

Doug Parker, Assistant Secretary for Occupational Safety and Health, highlights the critical importance of properly fitting PPE. “If personal protective equipment does not fit properly, an employee may be unprotected or dangerously exposed to hazards and face tragic consequences, we look forward to hearing from stakeholders on this important issue as we work together to ensure that construction workers of all genders and sizes are fitted properly with safety gear.”

The proposed rule aims to prevent such situations and create safer working environments for construction workers.

One noteworthy aspect of the proposal is that OSHA does not anticipate an increase in employers’ costs or compliance burdens. The focus is on clarification and alignment with existing standards to improve safety measures without imposing additional financial strain on employers.

Stakeholder input is an essential part of the rulemaking process, and the Department of Labor encourages interested parties to submit comments and hearing requests regarding the proposed changes.

As the construction industry plays a vital role in the country’s infrastructure development, safeguarding the health and safety of its workforce is of utmost importance. Ensuring that PPE fits properly is an integral part of this endeavor, as improperly fitting equipment can lead to disastrous consequences. By streamlining and clarifying the standards for PPE in construction, the Department of Labor is taking a significant step forward in advancing workplace safety for construction workers.

Those interested in providing comments or hearing requests can do so online through the Federal eRulemaking Portal, referencing Docket No. OSHA-20190003. The deadline for submissions is September 18, 2023. https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/ national/07192023

Exciting News: The U.S. Department of Labor is proposing a new rule to enhance protection for construction workers. This change will address gaps in the current Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standard, ensuring proper fitting for each employee. By aligning with general industry and maritime standards, this proposal aims to safeguard workers from hazards and provide better-fitting PPE for all, including smaller workers and women. Your input matters; let’s work together to create a safer construction industry!