The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) proposed a rule that would require construction employers to provide employees with personal protective equipment (PPE) that “properly fits.” OSHA recognized that improperly fitting PPE is a concern for smaller workers, especially some women. The proposed rule’s comment period lasts sixty days until September 18, 2023. The construction industry has expressed concern about the lack of a clear definition for “properly fitting” PPE and the potential for increased compliance challenges if the rule is implemented. Employers may need to stock a broader array of PPE to comply with the requirement.
