When employees provide their own safety equipment or PPE, who is responsible for assuring its adequacy?

When employees provide their own safety equipment or personal protective equipment (PPE), the employer retains the responsibility for ensuring that the equipment is adequate and appropriate for the job. This responsibility stems from the obligation of the employer to maintain a safe working environment and to comply with safety regulations. Even if employees choose their own PPE, the employer must evaluate the equipment to confirm it meets the required safety standards and is suitable for the specific hazards present in the workplace.

The employer has a duty to assess the effectiveness of the PPE being used, ensuring it offers adequate protection based on the risks involved. This includes examining factors such as proper fit, suitability for the hazards present, maintenance requirements, and adherence to applicable regulations and standards. The employer's accountability emphasizes the importance of a proactive safety culture, where safety considerations extend beyond simple compliance to genuinely safeguarding employee health and well-being.