How does defective PPE affect worker safety?

Defective personal protective equipment (PPE) can significantly compromise worker safety by failing to provide the necessary protection against hazards in the workplace. When PPE is defective, it may not adequately shield workers from risks such as chemical exposure, cuts, or impacts, ultimately leading to potential injuries. This is critical because the purpose of PPE is to minimize the risk of harm, and any malfunction or inadequacy nullifies that purpose, leaving workers exposed to dangerous conditions.

In this context, it is clear that defective equipment does not enhance safety, provide misleading protection, or reduce overall risk. Instead, it contributes directly to an environment where injuries are more likely to occur, emphasizing the importance of maintaining and regularly checking the integrity of PPE to ensure optimal safety for all workers.