PPE explained simply: What personal protective equipment does my company need?

PPE stands for personal protective equipment. This refers to protective items that are worn or used directly by individuals to reduce specific risks at work. Examples include protective gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, respiratory protection, safety shoes, or high-visibility clothing.

Which PPE is sensible or necessary always depends on the specific activity. The DGUV provides information on personal protective equipment and offers specialist information on selecting and using various types of PPE.

PPE is not a standard list for every company

A common mistake is to treat PPE like a general purchasing item. However, the protective equipment must fit the activity, the risk, and the people who use it. Safety glasses are of little use if they constantly fog up. Gloves are not worn if they are too stiff. Hearing protection is left unused if it is uncomfortable.

• Protective gloves: for warehousing, cleaning, workshops, packaging, or hygiene.
• Safety glasses: for dust, splinters, liquids, or technical work.
• Hearing protection: for loud machinery, workshops, or specific operational areas.
• Respiratory protection: depending on dust, particles, or the working environment.
• High-visibility clothing: for company yards, delivery zones, warehouse traffic, or outdoor areas.

How companies can better choose PPE

When it comes to PPE, it's not just the individual price that matters. Fit, comfort, protective function, and availability are crucial. If several people use the same equipment, different sizes or versions should be planned for.

• Select PPE according to activity and application area
• Consider sizes and fit
• Take comfort seriously
• Reorder consumables in good time
• Store PPE where it is needed
• Inform employees about use and storage

PPE in the office, warehouse, and operations

Even companies without traditional production may require PPE. In warehouses, gloves and high-visibility vests can be useful. In caretaker areas, safety glasses, protective gloves, or hearing protection may become relevant. In social institutions, schools, or practices, hygiene and disposable items also play a role.

Organizing PPE economically

PPE is often ordered irregularly. Therefore, a small standard list is worthwhile: Which items are needed regularly? Which sizes? Where are they stored? Who checks the inventory?

Especially recurring items like gloves, high-visibility vests, disposable items, or labeling should not be searched for anew each time. An order list can significantly simplify procurement.

Relevant links in the Wiepa Shop

For PPE topics, companies can specifically search for protective gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, and high-visibility vests. For labeling and instructions, products such as the DURABLE magnetic frame DURAFRAME SECURITY or labeling solutions like the Brother tape cartridge Black on Yellow are also suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions about PPE

What does PPE mean?

PPE stands for personal protective equipment. This includes protective items worn directly by people, such as gloves, safety glasses, hearing protection, or safety shoes.

What PPE does my company need?

That depends on the activities and potential risks. An administration department needs different equipment than a warehouse, workshop, production, or caretaker area.

Why is PPE often not used?

This is often due to poor fit, uncomfortable material, lack of availability, or unclear responsibilities. Therefore, PPE should not only be purchased but also practically organized.

Conclusion

PPE should always be suitable for the actual work. Companies benefit from clear standards, appropriate sizes, good availability, and regular reordering.

You can find more about overall requirements on our page Occupational Safety and Security Needs for Businesses.