Who is responsible for providing personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers?

In a workplace, the responsibility for providing personal protective equipment (PPE) typically falls on the employer. Employers are required by safety regulations and standards to ensure that their workers have access to necessary PPE to protect them from hazards in the workplace. This includes providing equipment such as helmets, gloves, safety goggles, hearing protection, and any other gear required based on the specific risks associated with the job.

The reason the correct answer involves the employer is grounded in occupational health and safety regulations, which outline that it is the employer's duty to assess risks, provide appropriate PPE, and ensure that the equipment is maintained and used correctly. This responsibility helps create a safer work environment and ensures compliance with various health and safety laws.

While contractors may play a role in managing safety on the job site, ultimately it is the employer who is accountable for meeting their legal obligations regarding worker safety, which includes providing PPE.