OSHA Seeks To Clarify The "P" In PPE, Issues NPRM On 'Fit' For Construction Workers

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is moving forward with plans to update its standards to "clarify the requirements for the fit" of personal protective equipment (PPE) that must be provided to construction workers. On September 7, 2022, OSHA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA)—a final step before publishing the proposed rule for comment.

Although OSHA has not yet published the proposed rule, employers in the construction industry should continue to monitor this critical regulatory development. Its impact could be broad and some say it is either overdue or not necessary.

Under 29 CFR 1926.28, OSHA currently holds employers in construction industries "responsible for requiring the wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment in all operations where there is an exposure to hazardous conditions or where this part [other specific construction standards] indicates the