Personal Protective Equipment - Eye Protection

Summary
Legislation
Resources

Summary

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is an essential safety component of a worker’s tasks when they could become injured as a result of an exposure to a physical, chemical, electrical or biological hazard. PPE is designed to protect the worker from potential harm and is required by workplace legislation.

Employers must educate and train workers in the proper use of eye protection, and ensure all eye protection is worn and is properly maintained. [O. Reg. 213/91, s. 21(3)]

PPE, including eye protection, is the last means of protection so it is vital to ensure that:

the hazard is controlled at the source and employees know PPE is a secondary means of protection.
all employees have a full understanding for the need and use of PPE.
PPE is properly fitted for each employee.
the use of PPE is consistently enforced where needed.

There is a large variety of eye protection including spectacles, goggles and face shields. Examine each situation carefully to identify potential risks of eye injury. Understand the uses and limitations for relevant types of eye or face protection. Employers must select the appropriate type of eye protection for the situation when there is risk of eye injury.

Workers must wear this protection. [O. Reg. 213/91, s. 24]

Legislation

Construction Projects

O. Reg. 213/91

Part II GENERAL CONSTRUCTION

Section 21 Protective Clothing, Equipment and Devices

21. (1) A worker shall wear such protective clothing and use such personal protective equipment or devices as are necessary to protect the worker against the hazards to which the worker may be exposed.

(2) A worker's employer shall require the worker to comply with subsection (1).

(3) A worker required to wear protective clothing or use personal protective equipment or devices shall be adequately instructed and trained in the care and use of the clothing, equipment or device before wearing or using it.

(4) Personal protective clothing and equipment that is provided, worn or used shall be a proper fit, having regard to all relevant factors including body types.

[O. Reg. 61/23, s. 1]

Section 24

24. A worker shall use protection appropriate in the circumstances when there is a risk of eye injury to the worker.

Resources

CCOHS Resources

Designing an Effective PPE Program
Personal Protective Equipment (various documents)
Safety Glasses and Face Protectors

IHSA Resources

Construction Health & Safety Manual, Chapter 11: Eye Protection
Eye Protection

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