What should be done if PPE is found to be damaged?

When personal protective equipment (PPE) is found to be damaged, the appropriate action is to report and remove it from use. This is crucial because damaged PPE may not provide the expected level of protection against hazards, which can lead to serious injuries or unsafe working conditions. By removing the damaged equipment from use and reporting it, steps can be taken to either replace the PPE or schedule it for repair, ensuring that all personnel have access to functional and effective protective gear.

Using damaged PPE, even for non-hazardous tasks, can create a false sense of security and risks exposure to safety issues. Continuing to use it until it can be replaced ignores the immediate hazards present. A temporary repair may not restore the protective capabilities of the equipment and can lead to unexpected failures during critical tasks. Therefore, the most responsible course of action is to ensure that all PPE is in good condition and to act immediately if any damage is discovered.