IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

What role does personal protective equipment (PPE) play in workplace safety?

1. It completely eliminates all risks

2. It is a secondary measure after other controls

3. It is the only requirement for safety compliance

4. It is optional if the work environment is safe

The correct answer is: It is a secondary measure after other controls

Personal protective equipment (PPE) plays a critical role in workplace safety as a secondary measure after other controls have been implemented to mitigate risks. This means that while PPE is essential in protecting individuals from hazards, it should not be the first or sole strategy for managing safety risks. Risk management in the workplace ideally follows a hierarchy of controls, where the most effective methods involve eliminating hazards or substituting them with safer alternatives. When it is not possible to fully eliminate risks through these primary controls, PPE serves as an important last line of defense. In scenarios where hazards still exist, PPE helps reduce the likelihood of injury or exposure. For example, in environments where there are chemical spills, workers might use gloves and goggles as protective measures to minimize harm. However, relying solely on PPE would not be sufficient; it should always complement other safety measures, such as engineering controls and training. Understanding that PPE is not the only aspect of safety compliance is key in fostering a proactive safety culture within the workplace. This makes it crucial for organizations to prioritize comprehensive risk assessments and implement a range of safety measures, with PPE being part of a robust safety strategy.