Wearing PPE : a regulatory obligation
The Labor Code (articles R4321-4 to R4323-95) states that“Personal protective equipment and work clothing mentioned in article R. 4321-4 shall be provided free of charge by the employer, who shall ensure their proper functioning and maintenance in a satisfactory hygienic condition through necessary upkeep, repairs, and replacements.”
The employer is therefore required to provide PPE adapted to the risks identified in the Single Document. This provision is accompanied by an obligation to train employees in their use and to monitor their actual use.
As for employees, article L4122-1 of the Labor Code also specifies that they are required “to take care, according to their training and capabilities, of their own health and safety as well as that of other persons affected by their acts or omissions at work.” Employees must therefore use the provided PPE in accordance with its intended purpose and the training received.
Summary of responsibilities
To learn more about your obligations : read our articleHow to ensure your employees' safety: don't take any risks!
Choosing the right PPE : a strategic prevention tool
Not all PPE is created equal, and not all risks can be managed with the same equipment.
Helmets, gloves, goggles, hearing protection, safety shoes, technical clothing, harnesses... the choice depends on the activity, the work environment, and the identified hazards.
To make the right choice, a rigorous method is essential. It involves :
- A precise assessment of risks (physical, chemical, etc.),
- A selection of certified PPE (CE marking, compliance with standards),
- Ensuring a proper fit for employees,
- Ease of use to encourage adoption.
The goal : protect without hindering, because poorly adapted PPE is rarely or improperly used.
Our practical guide : Protecting your workers : the 7 key steps to choosing the right PPE
Why isn't PPE always worn ?
Despite a clear policy, provided equipment, and regular reminders,ensuring PPE is actually worn remains a daily challengeThere are many reasons for this :
- Discomfort or restricted movement,
- Lack of awareness regarding real risks,
- Deep-seated habits or complacency,
- Lack of training or awareness,
- Absence of enforcement or follow-up.
It is essential to understand that not wearing PPE is not always an act of rebellion, but sometimes a symptom of a failure in training, communication, or the adaptation of safety procedures.
Are you dealing with an accident caused by a lack of PPE ? Check out our article : Workplace accidents: Protect your employees and your company by acting quickly
Informing, training, and supporting: the keys to an effective safety culture
An employee who understands the risks involved, the consequences for their health or that of their colleagues, and the specific purpose of each piece of equipment will be much more inclined to wear their PPE every day.
Here are 3 fundamental steps to integrate into your QHSE policy :
Inform = education
Forget authoritarian mandates: opt for clear, illustrated, and practical materials. Explainwhya piece of equipment is vital, how it protects, and what the risks are without it.
Train
Organize practical and interactive training sessions: role-playing, demonstrations, and more. Above all, tailor the training to real-world conditions and the specific roles involved.
Provide long-term support
Regularly reinforce best practices, observe behaviors, engage in dialogue, listen to obstacles... and if necessary, adjust equipment or protocols.
Prevention is an active process. It requires involving your teams in the development and evolution of your safety rules.
Refusal to wear PPE : what should you do ?
Despite all this deployment and daily application, there are times when reminders are no longer enough and failure to wear equipment becomes systematic. The company must take action.
For example :
- Establish the facts
- Precisely document the breaches (dates, locations, circumstances).
- Ensure that the PPE in question was indeed provided and that the training was properly completed.
- Discuss with the employee
- Individual meeting: listen to their reasons, reiterate the rules.
- Document the discussions (minutes, observations).
- Initiate a disciplinary process if necessary
- Written warning.
- Suspension.
- As a last resort, dismissal for serious misconduct (if safety is repeatedly and severely compromised).
A sanction should never be taken lightly : it must be proportionate, justified, and preceded by preventative measures.
Tools to structure your OSH approach
To ensure the traceability, compliance, and effectiveness of your PPE policy, several tools are at your disposal :
- The Single Risk Assessment Document to map risks and justify the prescribed PPE.
- The PPE register to track their assignment, maintenance, and replacement.
- Digital QHSE tools, such as the Dyo by Symalean solution, to manage training, monitor certifications, and centralize proof of information.
What about the future? The Prevention Passport will allow you to retrieve all safety-related attestations and certificates, particularly those concerning PPE. Employers get ready for the 2026 deadline and check out our article on the subject OSH training: why use software to manage your Prevention Passport declarations ?
Making PPE use a shared reflex
Ensuring PPE is worn cannot be reduced to a rule to be enforced at all costs. It is a matter of public health, shared responsibility, and corporate culture.
It is up to companies to create the conditions for buy-in, dialogue, and compliance. It is up to employees to understand that wearing PPE means protecting themselves and others.
Safety cannot be delegated: it must be built together, day after day.
