How should PPE, especially gloves and jackets, be maintained to ensure safety?

• A. Inspect for wear, clean and dry, replace damaged items, store away from heat and chemicals
• B. Wash weekly only
• C. Wear as long as comfortable, regardless of wear
• D. Never inspect PPE

Answer: (A)

Keeping PPE in good condition is essential to preserving its protective function. Gloves and jackets should be inspected before use for wear, tears, thinning material, or damaged seams; they should be cleaned to remove welding splatter, oils, and other contaminants; they must be allowed to dry completely and stored away from heat sources and chemicals to prevent premature aging or damage; and damaged items should be replaced promptly. This ensures the protective properties aren’t compromised by hidden flaws or contamination, and proper storage helps maintain material integrity. Washing weekly alone doesn’t address inspection or storage needs; wearing PPE beyond its useful condition or neglecting inspections can allow hidden damage to cause injuries; and never inspecting PPE eliminates a critical safety step.