Who is responsible for providing personal protective equipment to employees?

The responsibility for providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to employees, particularly pesticide handlers, lies with their employers. Employers are obliged to ensure that their workers have access to appropriate PPE to protect them from any potential hazards associated with pesticide handling. This requirement is part of occupational safety regulations that emphasize the importance of maintaining a safe working environment.

Employers must assess the risks and provide necessary equipment to mitigate those risks effectively. This may include gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing, depending on the type of pesticide and associated risks. Providing PPE is essential not just for regulatory compliance, but also for the health and safety of the employees, ensuring that they can perform their tasks without exposure to harmful substances.

In contrast, state regulatory agencies provide guidelines and regulations concerning safety practices, but they do not supply PPE directly. Employees are expected to use the PPE provided by their employers, and while manufacturers may suggest certain protections associated with their products, the actual responsibility for provision and training regarding PPE falls on the employer.