When must an employer provide personal protective equipment?

An employer must provide personal protective equipment (PPE) when employees are exposed to hazards that could cause injury or illness in the workplace. This includes situations involving chemical, biological, physical, or environmental risks where PPE is necessary to mitigate those dangers. Employers are also required to ensure that the PPE is properly maintained, fits employees correctly, and is used in accordance with safety regulations. Compliance with relevant health and safety regulations, such as OSHA standards in the U.S., guides the specific requirements for PPE provision.