PPE Manufacturers Debunk Common Myths on Gloves, Helmets and Respirators
Safety+Health Magazine gathered input from several PPE manufacturers, including Magid Glove and Safety, Bullard, Delta Plus USA, Gas Clip Technologies, Ergodyne and the International Safety Equipment Association, to correct persistent myths about protective gear. Among the biggest: cut-resistant gloves are often mistaken for cut-proof, supplied-air respirator pressure settings get treated as a minor detail even though changes to airline length can silently drop protection below safe levels, and higher cut or impact ratings don’t automatically mean a glove is right for every task. Gas Clip Technologies’ Casey Lewis put it bluntly: owning PPE isn’t the same as being protected if it isn’t maintained, fitted, or calibrated for the job at hand. Ergodyne also flagged that one-size-fits-all gear creates real hazards, and noted that DOL and OSHA issued updated PPE construction rules in 2024 requiring properly fitting gear regardless of gender or body type.
What It Means for Subcontractors
- Foremen should confirm respirator PSI settings are re-checked any time airline length or fittings change, not just at initial issue, since Bullard notes pressure drift often shows no visible warning signs.
- Crews handling cutting or impact hazards should be re-fitted for gloves based on the specific task, not issued a single “high-rated” glove for all jobs, per Delta Plus USA’s guidance on trade-offs in dexterity and comfort.
- Safety leads should document PPE fit checks for workers of varying body types and genders to align with the 2024 DOL/OSHA construction PPE fit requirements cited by Ergodyne, rather than relying on one-size inventory for rotating crews.
