OSHA Finalizes PPE Construction Rule 

12/17/2024

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a final ruling on an added revision to the personal protective equipment (PPE) standard for construction.  

According to a press release, the rule explicitly requires PPE to properly fit any construction worker who needs it, improving protection from hazardous conditions. 

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“I’ve talked to workers in construction, particularly women, who have spoken of personal protective equipment that didn’t fit or was simply unavailable at the jobsite in their size,” says Doug Parker, OSHA’s assistant secretary. “PPE must fit properly to work. I’m proud of the broad support from both employers and unions for OSHA’s efforts to make clear that employers must provide the right PPE for each worker who needs it.” 

The revision to the standard adds specific language requiring employers to provide PPE that properly fits construction workers. The change aligns the construction industry standard with the standard in place for general industry. 

Improperly sized PPE can create new hazards for workers, such as oversized gloves or clothing caught in machinery discouraging use.  

Dave Lubach is executive editor of the facility market.