Nevada OSHA has officially adopted the new federal OSHA rule on personal protective equipment (PPE) in construction, which took effect on January 13, 2025. The rule, formally adopted by Nevada OSHA on February 7, mandates that all PPE used in the construction industry must fit workers properly to ensure effective protection from workplace hazards.

The updated rule explicitly requires that PPE be of an appropriate size, addressing concerns about equipment being too large or too small. Employers are now obligated to ensure that all PPE is designed to fit each employee safely, tailored to the specific needs of the job.

“This rule reinforces the importance of employers providing properly fitting PPE, a vital component of workplace safety programs,” said an OSHA spokesperson. "Improperly fitted PPE not only fails to provide adequate protection but also creates additional hazards and discourages workers from using necessary safety equipment.”

The amendment is expected to especially benefit women in construction, who often struggle to find PPE that fits properly. Historically, PPE has been designed primarily for male body types, leading to safety issues for women who need smaller or differently shaped gear. This rule ensures that all workers, regardless of size, can access equipment that fits them properly.

The regulation also addresses workers who exceed the weight limits of certain safety gear, such as harnesses and other protective equipment. These workers often face difficulties in obtaining appropriately sized PPE, which can lead to safety vulnerabilities.

Nevada OSHA's adoption of the federal rule reflects a commitment to improving safety and working conditions for all employees. With proper-fitting PPE, the risk of injury from unsafe or poorly fitting gear is minimized, supporting both the physical well-being of workers and compliance with safety standards.

Filing a Workplace Safety Complaint

Employees who believe they have been exposed to hazardous workplace conditions or are not provided with appropriate PPE can report their concerns to their employer or file a complaint with Nevada OSHA. Complaints can be filed confidentially through www.osha.gov/workers/file-complaint.

By ensuring that all workers have access to properly fitted PPE, this new regulation aims to create safer, more inclusive workplaces across the construction industry in Nevada.

Originally reported by Stasia Demarco in Occupational Health & Safety.