Who is primarily responsible for providing and paying for personal protective equipment (PPE)?

The employer is primarily responsible for providing and paying for personal protective equipment (PPE) in the workplace. According to OSHA standards, it is the employer's duty to assess the workplace for hazards and ensure that all employees have access to the appropriate PPE needed to protect them from those hazards. This includes providing equipment such as helmets, gloves, protective eyewear, and respiratory protection at no cost to the employees.

This responsibility ensures that safety measures are in place and that employees can perform their tasks without unnecessary risk to their health and safety. Employers are also required to maintain and replace PPE as necessary, further emphasizing their role in the provision and funding of these vital safety resources.

While employees also play a role in safety by using provided PPE correctly and reporting any issues, the onus of provision and financial responsibility lies with the employer, ensuring adherence to workplace safety regulations and standards.