Arlington, VA – A recent study conducted by the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) and J. J. Keller & Associates Inc. found that nearly half of workers refuse to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) either because they don’t want to or don’t believe it is necessary.
Despite 70% of employers regularly discussing PPE, 75% still report challenges with compliance. The top reasons cited include workers’ unwillingness to wear PPE (56%) and the perception that it is unnecessary (48%). Additionally, 36% of employers noted that workers feel PPE makes their tasks more difficult.
Key Findings:
- Nearly half of employers struggle to train workers on PPE use, including proper wear, necessity, and limitations.
- While more organizations are focusing on PPE designed for women, a third report challenges in finding properly fitting options.
- 55% of respondents face difficulties sourcing PPE for larger sizes, while 52% struggle to find smaller sizes.
ISEA President and CEO Cam Mackey emphasized the ongoing challenges in compliance and training, urging safety professionals, manufacturers, and industry leaders to take proactive steps in improving PPE programs.
To further discuss these findings, ISEA and J. J. Keller have scheduled a free webinar on April 17 at 10 a.m. Central.