How is PPE selected based on medical surveillance findings?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) plays a key role in supporting medical surveillance by limiting exposure and helping identify health risks early. PPE selection is based on specific hazards to which employees are exposed, which may include chemical, noise, biological, or other dangers. OSHA regulations, such as 29 CFR 1910.132, require employers to assess workplace hazards and choose PPE that directly addresses individual risks.

Protective equipment may include respirators, gloves, goggles, hearing protection, or a combination of several forms of protection depending upon the hazards. PPE regulations within Subpart I aimed at ensuring PPE is not only available but also appropriate, effective, and used correctly to minimize risk include:

• Occupational noise exposure (29 CFR 1910.95),
• Eye and face protection (29 CFR 1910.133),
• Respiratory protection (29 CFR 1910.134),
• Head protection (29 CFR 1910.135),
• Foot protection (29 CFR 1910.136),
• Electrical protective equipment (29 CFR 1910.137), and
• Hand protection (29 CFR 1910.138).