Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Policy

It is the goal of Russell Landscape to provide a workplace free from known hazards. Russell Landscape is committed to providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the workplace to protect employees from exposure to workplace hazards and the risk of injury.  

Responsible Department / Personnel

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, visitors, and anyone working on or visiting the company’s premises or job sites where hazards exist that require PPE to minimize risks.

Management: Ensure PPE is available, suitable, and compliant with OSHA safety standards.

Employees: Comply with all PPE requirements, maintain PPE in good condition, and report any damaged, lost, or ineffective equipment.

Supervisors: Ensure employees are properly trained in the use of PPE and enforce compliance with this policy.

Requirements

Personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided, used, and maintained when it has been determined that its use is required to ensure the safety and health of our employees and visitors and that such use will lessen the likelihood of occupational injury and/or illness.

Types of PPE may include (but are not limited to):

• Maintenance
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Ear protection
• High-visibility clothing/vest
• Construction/Enhancement
• Hard hat
• Safety glasses
• Face shield
• Gloves
• Ear protection
• High-visibility clothing/vest
• Chainsaw chaps

Employees should inspect their PPE before each use to ensure it is in proper working condition.

Any damaged or defective PPE should be reported immediately and replaced before continuing any work. 

An employer will cover the cost of the required PPE except if the employee has lost or intentionally damaged the PPE. 

The employee will be charged for all lost and intentionally damaged PPE. 

Training

All employees will undergo training regarding the following topics:

Correct selection and usage of PPE.

Understanding the hazards that necessitate PPE.

Proper maintenance, storage, and disposal of PPE.

The consequences of failing to use PPE when required.

Non-Compliance & Disciplinary Actions

Failure to adhere to PPE requirements can lead to serious injury or harm. Therefore, non-compliance will be addressed with the following disciplinary actions:

First Offense: Verbal warning and re-training on the proper use of PPE.

Second Offense: Written warning and mandatory re-training on PPE requirements.

Third Offense: Suspension without pay for one day.

Fourth Offense: Termination of employment.

Serious violations that result in immediate risk to life or safety may bypass this progressive discipline policy and result in immediate suspension or termination.

Review & Amendments

This policy will be reviewed annually or as needed based on changes in regulations or workplace conditions.

Acknowledgment Statement of Policy

I acknowledge that I have received and reviewed a copy of the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) policy issued by Russell Landscape. I understand that it is my responsibility to read and comprehend the contents of this policy and adhere to its provisions as part of my role within the organization.

By signing this acknowledgment, I confirm the following:

1. Receipt: I have received a copy of the PPE policy.
2. Understanding: I have read and understand the policy.
3. Compliance: I agree to comply with the terms and conditions set forth in the policy.
4. Questions: I understand that if I have any questions regarding the policy, I can seek clarification from the Safety Director or HR Manager.

This acknowledgment will be kept on file and is part of my official records with Russell Landscape.