Subcontractor PPE Standards

The principal contractor sets the minimum PPE standards for all workers and subcontractors on site.
Subcontractors must provide their workers with PPE that meets or exceeds the site PPE requirements.
Common minimum requirements include hard hats, safety boots, hi-vis vests, eye protection, and gloves.
Task-specific PPE such as harnesses, RPE, hearing protection, and face shields must be added as needed.
All PPE must carry valid CE or UKCA markings and be in serviceable condition.
The site induction should clearly state PPE requirements and consequences of non-compliance.
Regular PPE compliance checks by supervisors ensure standards are maintained across all trades.
Subcontractors are responsible for training their workers on the correct use of PPE issued to them.
Damaged or worn PPE must be replaced promptly — cost of replacement does not excuse non-compliance.
CDM 2015 places duties on the principal contractor to manage all contractors including PPE standards.

Consistent protection	Uniform PPE standards ensure all workers are protected to the same level regardless of their employer.
Legal duty	The PPE at Work Regulations 2022 and CDM 2015 require PPE provision, use, and enforcement on construction sites.
Site safety culture	Visible PPE compliance demonstrates a positive safety culture and sets expectations for all workers on site.

Do

Don't

Communicate the site PPE requirements clearly at induction and in the site rules
Check that subcontractor PPE meets or exceeds the site minimum standards
Verify all PPE carries valid CE or UKCA markings during site inspections
Ensure subcontractors provide task-specific PPE beyond the site minimum where needed
Carry out regular PPE compliance checks across all subcontractor work areas
Require subcontractors to replace damaged or worn PPE before workers continue
Include PPE standards in pre-start meetings and subcontractor RAMS reviews
Provide spare PPE on site for visitors and as emergency replacement stock
Record PPE non-compliance and follow up with subcontractor management promptly
Lead by example — ensure your own PPE compliance is visible to all on site

DON'T allow workers on site without the minimum PPE requirements being met
DON'T accept worn, damaged, or non-certified PPE as meeting site standards
DON'T assume subcontractors have trained their workers to use PPE correctly
DON'T waive PPE requirements for short-duration tasks or quick visits
DON'T ignore repeated PPE non-compliance — escalate through the subcontractor chain
DON'T provide PPE that does not fit the individual worker correctly
DON'T rely solely on induction — reinforce PPE standards at every toolbox talk
DON'T allow cost to be an excuse for subcontractors not replacing damaged PPE
DON'T apply different PPE standards to different subcontractors on the same site
DON'T forget that task-specific PPE such as RPE and harnesses requires additional training

See also: PPE Awareness and Responsibilities | Subcontractor Safety Management

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Toolbox Talk Record