PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
PPE is the last line of defence in the hierarchy of controls. Understand when PPE is required on a residential build and what WHS obligations apply.
Ask Chalkline about this →PPE stands for Personal Protective Equipment. It is physical equipment worn or used by a worker to protect against hazards at the workplace: hard hats, safety boots, high-visibility vests, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, dust masks, respirators, and fall-arrest harnesses are the most common on a residential build.
Under the WHS Act and model WHS Regulations, PPE is the last resort in the hierarchy of controls. A PCBU must first try to eliminate or engineer out a hazard before relying on PPE. Where PPE is required, the PCBU must provide it at no cost to the worker, ensure it is correctly fitted and maintained, and train workers in its use.
PPE requirements appear throughout the WHS Regulations for specific hazards: confined space entry (respiratory protective equipment), working at height (harness and lanyard), asbestos work (P2 respirator, disposable coveralls), and demolition (eye protection, hard hat). The specific PPE must be selected based on the risk assessment for the task.
Also known as: personal protective equipment
Category: WHS / safety
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Last updated: 2026-05-10. Verified: 2026-05-10. Quarterly review for currency.