On Dec. 12, 2024, OSHA finalized a revised rule on the agency’s personal protective equipment (PPE) standard for construction [29 CFR 1926.95(c)] to specifically mandate that PPE must properly fit the worker. This update ensures consistency with the language used in OSHA’s PPE standards for general industry and shipyards, reinforcing the requirement for properly fitting PPE in construction settings.

OSHA received many comments supporting the inclusion of an explicit requirement on proper fit. In clarifying the roles of employers and employees on this matter, OSHA confirmed that it is the employer’s responsibility to make sure their workers are equipped with PPE that fits them appropriately.

The updated rule will take effect 30 days after its publication in the Federal Register on Jan. 11, 2025. ASSP encourages members to review their PPE programs and take proactive steps to comply with the updated rule.

For additional details, refer to the Federal Register notice and OSHA’s PPE Safety and Health Topics webpage.