Revised PPE

On November 14, 2007, OSHA announced a new rule clarifying employer responsibilities regarding payment for PPE. The new rule, first proposed eight years ago, requires employers to pay for almost all PPE that is required by OSHA's general industry, construction, and maritime standards. OSHA states the shift from employee to employer responsibility for payment is important for three reasons. OSHA believes that when employers pay for PPE, the equipment is maintained and replaced as necessary, and employers will take more responsibility for PPE selection and use. It is this improvement in PPE usage that OSHA expects will result in 21,000 fewer injuries per year. The new rule will be enforced beginning May 15, 2008, to allow employers time to change their existing PPE payment policies. Contact Avanti for the complete report.