Step-by-Step Guides on PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

A few years back, my friend Marcus and I were setting up a makeshift workstation in his garage for some weekend trim work. True to form, Marcus paused before powering on his miter saw and ran through every piece of his protective gear—safety glasses snug, ear plugs seated, gloves on, respirator at the ready, and steel-toe boots laced. I remember joking that he’d dressed like he was headed into a chemical lab rather than sanding a few door frames. Sure enough, as he completed a tricky bevel cut, a small knot in the wood split unexpectedly. The blade kicked a splintered chunk of oak straight toward his face—and stopped it cold against his face shield. He walked away unscathed, and we both agreed that his thorough PPE check had literally saved his vision that afternoon.

Below is the standardized PPE checklist Marcus taught me to follow. For each category you’ll see the primary gear you should have—along with an alternative option if your usual kit isn’t available.

How to Use This Checklist

1. Pre-Start Verification: Before you flip the switch or pull the trigger, physically confirm each standard item—or its alternative—is in place and undamaged.
2. Fit & Seal: Make sure glasses and respirators seal snugly, ear protection sits correctly, and gloves/sleeves aren’t so loose they can snag.
3. Ongoing Awareness: If you pause or move your setup, re-check your gear. Even a brief distraction can leave a gap in protection.

Like Marcus discovered the hard way (or rather, didn’t), the moment you think “this cut is too small to bother with full PPE” is exactly when the unplanned happens. Use this checklist every time, and you’ll walk away from your workbench uninjured—no matter what surprises the wood has in store.

A. Eye & Face Protection

1. Safety Glasses
   
   • What to Check: ANSI Z87.1–rated polycarbonate lenses; snug fit over eyes.
   • Why: Blocks flying chips and dust while maintaining clear vision.
   • When to Use: Every time you power on a saw or grinder—regardless of material.
   • Alternative Option: Wraparound goggles (with indirect vents) when you need splash or fine-dust protection.

 

2. Face Shield
   
   • What to Check: Full-coverage polycarbonate shield worn over safety glasses.
   • Why: Provides extra barrier against large debris and sparks.
   • When to Use: Grinding, using high-speed rotary tools, or any operation generating large chips.
   • Alternative Option: Welding helmet (in grinding mode) if you already have one in a multi-trade shop.

B. Hearing Protection

1. Disposable Ear Plugs
   
   • What to Check: Unrolled foam plugs inserted fully into ear canal.
   • Why: Attenuates high-decibel noise spikes in short tasks.
   • When to Use: Handheld circular saws, routers, or table saws in enclosed areas.
   • Alternative Option: Wax earplugs (mold-to-ear) for single-handed insertion and comfort.
2. Earmuffs
   
   • What to Check: Cushions form a tight seal around ears; headband adjusted for comfort.
   • Why: Comfortable for extended wear; electronic models allow speech while blocking harmful noise.
   • When to Use: Full-day shop work or when coordinating with crew.
   • Alternative Option: Over-the-ear electronic communication headsets if you need constant two-way radio use.

C. Hand & Arm Safety

1. Cut-Resistant Gloves
   
   • What to Check: ANSI/ISEA 105 Level 3–5; proper fit without loose material.
   • Why: Protects against accidental contact with blade teeth and sharp edges.
   • When to Use: Handling off-cuts, feeding stock into saws, and general material manipulation.
   • Alternative Option: Leather work gloves with cut-resistant liners—better grip for larger woods.
2. Cut-Resistant Sleeves
   
   • What to Check: Covers forearm without restricting movement; no loose fabric.
   • Why: Shields arms from debris and scrapes.
   • When to Use: Working under tablesaws or when sliding long stock across surfaces.
   • Alternative Option: Long-sleeve work shirts made from tightly woven cotton when sleeves must stay unwrapped.
3. Glove-Free Operation
   
   • What to Check: Gloves removed and stowed before using table saw, routers, or jointers.
   • Why: Prevents glove material from snagging on a spinning blade.
   • When to Use: Any exposed-blade scenario.
   • Alternative Option: Rely entirely on push sticks, featherboards, and push blocks to keep hands away.

D. Respiratory Gear

1. Disposable Dust Mask (N95)
   
   • What to Check: Snug nose clip fit; no side gaps.
   • Why: Filters 95% of non-oil particulates, protecting from wood dust.
   • When to Use: Short sessions cutting or sanding untreated wood.
   • Alternative Option: Reusable half-face respirator with P100 filters for finer particulate control.

2. Half-Face Respirator
   
   • What to Check: Correct cartridges installed (P100 for dust, organic-vapor for chemicals); face seal.
   • Why: Higher protection for treated lumber, adhesives, or prolonged dust exposure.
   • When to Use: Cutting pressure-treated timber or working with solvent-based finishes.
   • Alternative Option: Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR) for maximum comfort and protection in heavy-dust environments.

E. Footwear & Clothing

1. Protective Boots
   
   • What to Check: ASTM F2413 compliance; snug heel fit; slip-resistant soles.
   • Why: Shields feet from falling objects and prevents slips on sawdust-covered floors.
   • When to Use: Any shop or jobsite work—especially when moving stock or materials.
   • Alternative Option: Composite-toe athletic safety shoes for lightweight comfort on long shifts.
2. Proper Workwear
   
   • What to Check: Close-fitting shirts and pants; no drawstrings, loose cuffs, or jewelry.
   • Why: Prevents fabric or accessories from catching on moving parts.
   • When to Use: Always within 10 feet of running equipment.
   • Alternative Option: Coveralls with elasticized cuffs when working in dusty or wet conditions.

How to Use This Checklist:

1. Review each PPE category before powering on your saw.
2. Confirm “What to Check,” understand “Why” it’s critical, decide “When to Use,” and consider an “Alternative Option” if needed.
3. If any item is missing or inadequate, address it immediately before proceeding.