Who is responsible for providing adequate personal protective equipment in the workplace?

• A. Employers
• B. Employees
• C. Vendors
• D. Regulatory Agencies

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is who must supply PPE as part of a workplace safety program. Employers are responsible for providing adequate PPE to workers at no cost, after a formal hazard assessment determines what protection is needed. They must select the right PPE, ensure it fits each person, maintain and replace it as needed, and train employees on proper use and care. In a backstage setting this means supplying items like hard hats for overhead rigging areas, safety glasses or face shields, hearing protection in loud shops, gloves for handling sharp or hot materials, and respirators if fumes or dust are present, and making sure everyone knows how to wear and inspect them. Employees are responsible for using the PPE correctly and reporting damaged equipment, while vendors simply supply PPE and regulatory agencies set the rules and enforce compliance.