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HS&E Operatives practice question: Personal protective equipment (1 of 7)

C. Safety A free question from our original HS&E Operatives practice exam. Try it, then open the answer to see why each option is right or wrong.

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You start with a new firm. Your supervisor gives you safety glasses and gloves for the job, then says their cost will come out of your wages.

Is this allowed?

Choose one answer.

  1. A. Yes, if you keep the PPE when you leave the firm
  2. B. Only for gloves, because they wear out quickly
  3. C. No, PPE needed for work must be free
  4. D. Yes, as long as the cost is spread over a few weeks
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C

  • A. Wrong: Wrong. Who keeps it at the end does not change the rule. PPE provided for work must not be charged for.
  • B. Wrong: Wrong. PPE that wears out still has to be replaced free of charge when it is needed for the work.
  • C. Right: Right. The Health and Safety at Work Act says employers must not charge workers for things done to protect their health and safety at work. That includes PPE used only at work.
  • D. Wrong: Wrong. Spreading the cost does not make it allowed. PPE needed for work must be provided free.

Explanation

Your employer must provide the PPE you need for your work and must not charge you for it. You must use it properly and report if it is lost or damaged.

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