How should PPE be maintained?

• A. Clean and in good condition
• B. Painted regularly
• C. Repaired with tape
• D. Replaced monthly regardless

Answer: (A)

Keeping PPE clean and in good condition ensures it provides the protection it’s designed to offer. Cleaning removes contamination and reduces the risk of transferring hazards to you or others, while regular inspection catches wear, tears, cracks, degraded straps, or damaged seals that could let hazards in. After use, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and decontamination instructions, let items dry properly, and store them in a clean, dry place so they remain ready for the next use. Replace PPE when damage is found, after exposure to hazardous substances, or when it no longer fits or seals correctly.

Some practices don’t keep you safe. Painting PPE isn’t necessary and can degrade materials. Repairing with tape isn’t reliable and can fail under actual use. Replacing on a fixed monthly schedule ignores wear, contamination, and the specific guidance for each item, which can leave you underprotected.