PPE checklist (NZ)
PPE is the last line of defence, not the first: it protects one worker if it fits, is worn, and is maintained, so it comes after eliminating and controlling the hazard. Use this checklist to confirm the right PPE is provided for the task, in good condition, and actually being used. Under HSWA 2015 a PCBU that provides PPE must make sure it is suitable, maintained, and that workers are trained to use it.
PPE checklist (NZ)
Company: ____________
Site: ____________
Date: ____________
What the task needs (from the SSSP or task analysis)
| PPE required for this task identified: ____________ | N/A · Action | |
| PPE provided at no cost to the worker | N/A · Action | |
| Workers trained in how to use, fit, and look after it | N/A · Action |
Head, eyes, hearing, respiratory
| Hard hat where there is a risk of head injury; not damaged or expired | N/A · Action | |
| Eye protection matched to the hazard (impact, dust, chemical splash, welding) | N/A · Action | |
| Hearing protection where noise is high; correct type for the noise | N/A · Action | |
| Respiratory protection where dust, fumes or vapours are present; correct type, fit-tested where required | N/A · Action |
Hands, feet, body
| Gloves matched to the hazard (cut, chemical, abrasion, heat) | N/A · Action | |
| Safety footwear appropriate to the site | N/A · Action | |
| High-visibility clothing where there is plant or traffic | N/A · Action | |
| Protective clothing for the task (weather, sparks, chemicals) | N/A · Action |
Working at height and other
| Fall protection harness and lanyard where required; inspected, anchor points adequate | N/A · Action | |
| Sun protection provided for outdoor work | N/A · Action | |
| Any task-specific PPE identified in the task analysis | N/A · Action |
Condition and use
| All PPE in good condition, clean, and within any expiry | N/A · Action | |
| Damaged or worn PPE replaced, not kept in use | N/A · Action | |
| PPE actually being worn correctly on site | N/A · Action | |
| Storage provided so PPE stays clean and usable | N/A · Action |
Completed by: ____________________
Signature: ____________________
swmspack.com · Free printable checklist. Not legal advice; adapt to your site.
Common questions
▸Who pays for PPE in New Zealand?
The PCBU. Where PPE is the control, the business must provide it and must not charge the worker for it, must make sure it is suitable and maintained, and must train workers to use it.
▸Why is PPE called the last line of defence?
Because it only protects the one person wearing it, and only if it fits and is worn correctly. Eliminating the hazard, or isolating and engineering it out, protects everyone regardless. PPE sits at the bottom of the hierarchy of controls for that reason, not because it does not matter.
PPE is one control among many. The SSSP sets out all the controls for your work; generate a site-specific one in minutes.
Forms record the day; the SSSP is the plan the main contractor asks for before you start. Generate a site-specific one for your trade, checked against HSWA 2015.