OSHA Revises PPE Design Standards

Sept. 11, 2009
OSHA has issued a final rule revising design provisions for personal protective equipment (PPE) including eye- and face-protective devices and head and foot protection.

Amendments to the PPE standards include a requirement that filter lenses and plates in eye-protective equipment meet a test for transmission of radiant energy, such as light or infrared.

“Workers exposed to occupational hazards requiring head, foot, or eye and face protection will now be provided protection based on a standard that reflects state-of-the-art technology and materials,” says acting Assistant Secretary of Labor for OSHA Jordan Barab. “This final rule is another step in OSHA’s efforts to update or remove references to outdated national consensus and industry standards.”

The final rule becomes effective on Oct. 9.