If an SOP requires you to wear PPE and you do not have that PPE, what should you do?

If an SOP requires you to wear PPE and you do not have that PPE, what should you do?

• A. Contact a supervisor
• B. Proceed without PPE
• C. Ask a coworker for PPE
• D. Document the PPE shortage

Answer: (A)

If the SOP requires PPE, you must have that gear before starting the task. When you don’t have it, the proper move is to pause and contact a supervisor. They’re responsible for enforcing safety rules and can arrange the correct PPE, approve a safe alternative, or adjust the work plan so you’re not exposed to risk. Moving forward without PPE creates a real danger and violates the procedure, so it’s not acceptable. Asking a coworker for PPE might seem convenient, but PPE is issued through formal channels to ensure it’s the right type and properly fit. Notifying the supervisor and seeking a resolution is essential, and while reporting the shortage is important for fixing the gap, it doesn’t remove the immediate safety risk.

If the SOP requires PPE, you must have that gear before starting the task. When you don’t have it, the proper move is to pause and contact a supervisor. They’re responsible for enforcing safety rules and can arrange the correct PPE, approve a safe alternative, or adjust the work plan so you’re not exposed to risk. Moving forward without PPE creates a real danger and violates the procedure, so it’s not acceptable. Asking a coworker for PPE might seem convenient, but PPE is issued through formal channels to ensure it’s the right type and properly fit. Notifying the supervisor and seeking a resolution is essential, and while reporting the shortage is important for fixing the gap, it doesn’t remove the immediate safety risk.