Brief answers / Better questions
Shift questions
Resolve uncertainty before the task—not by trial and error during exposure.
Does PPE replace a machine guard?
No. PPE does not prevent access to dangerous moving parts. Guarding, isolation and safe systems of work remain separate controls.
Read the impact guide for the difference between interception and containment.
Can one pair of gloves cover every task?
No. Mechanical, chemical and thermal protection differ. Gloves can also create an entanglement risk near moving machinery. Follow the machine-specific assessment.
Read the handling guide before treating a glove rating as a general-purpose approval.
Is a face shield enough on its own?
Not necessarily. A shield may need to be used with suitable primary eye protection. Check the hazard, product instructions and site assessment.
Can I add earplug and earmuff ratings together?
No. Combined attenuation is not obtained by adding package ratings. A competent assessment should establish a suitable combination and its expected performance.
Read about hearing protection, fit and communication.
Is a respirator seal check the same as a fit test?
No. Fit testing assesses a particular tight-fitting facepiece on an individual. A user seal check is performed each time it is donned, as instructed, and does not replace fit testing.
Does a particulate filter protect against solvent vapour?
No. Particle filters do not provide gas or vapour protection simply by filtering dust. Respirator selection requires competent assessment of the substance and exposure.
Read the airborne hazards guide for the limits of air-purifying equipment.
Can equipment be mixed if the pieces physically fit?
Physical fit does not establish compatibility. Check manufacturer-approved combinations and whether seals, coverage, movement or communication are affected.
Should damaged equipment stay in use until a replacement arrives?
Do not continue with protection known to be defective. Follow the site’s withdrawal, reporting and work-pausing arrangements; do not improvise an unassessed substitute.
Does a standards mark prove suitability for my job?
No. A mark relates to a defined standard and scope. The model, rating, edition, limitations and actual task conditions still need review.
Can this website approve our equipment selection?
No. These guides are educational and do not provide certification, product approval or site-specific safety advice. Use a competent assessor and applicable local requirements.