100 PPE Reminders That Could Save a Life

PPE reminders that could save a life are more than just catchy phrases—they’re life-protecting cues for workers in every industry.

Whether you’re on a construction site, in a research lab, or behind a desk with occasional field visits, personal protective equipment (PPE) is your last line of defense.

That’s why it’s crucial to not only wear PPE but to remember how and why it’s used.

This post rounds up 100 PPE reminders that could save a life, broken down by workplace type and risk level—because safety starts with knowledge and action.

PPE Reminders That Could Save a Life

PPE Basics: Universal Reminders for All Workplaces

1. Don’t wait for an incident to wear PPE.
2. Your PPE is personal—don’t share it.
3. Replace damaged PPE immediately.
4. PPE is your backup when everything else fails.
5. Check fit before you commit.
6. Gloves protect more than your skin.
7. Safety glasses = safety first.
8. If it’s fogging up, it’s not fitting right.
9. Don’t modify your PPE.
10. Listen to your safety officer—they’re looking out for you.

Construction & Industrial PPE Tips

11. Hard hats are for your head—not for storage.
12. Reflective vests make you visible. Wear them day and night.
13. Steel-toe boots prevent crushing injuries—lace them tight.
14. Earplugs or earmuffs? Use what fits best for hearing protection.
15. Always check for fall protection before climbing.
16. Wear gloves suitable for your task—grip, cut resistance, or chemical.
17. Don’t ignore respirator maintenance.
18. Dust masks are not respirators—know the difference.
19. Use face shields for grinding, welding, or spraying.
20. PPE is a small effort for a long life.

Learn more about construction PPE requirements at CCOHS.

Chemical and Laboratory Work

21. Lab coats aren’t fashion—they’re splash protection.
22. Don’t wear open-toed shoes in the lab.
23. Gloves should be chemical-specific.
24. Always remove PPE before leaving the lab.
25. Know your MSDS before handling materials.
26. Eye wash stations are only helpful if you can get to them.
27. Fume hoods are not optional for volatile substances.
28. Face shields over goggles = double protection.
29. Clean spills with proper PPE—not paper towels.
30. Replace disposable gloves frequently.

Health & Medical PPE Guidelines

31. Surgical masks are not respirators—use N95 when needed.
32. Hand hygiene is your first layer of PPE.
33. Remove PPE in the right order to prevent contamination.
34. Never reuse disposable PPE unless approved.
35. Barrier gowns should fully cover your clothing.
36. PPE is a barrier between life and infection.
37. Don’t wear rings or jewelry under gloves.
38. Practice doffing techniques regularly.
39. PPE is as important as medication in infection control.
40. Don’t touch your face while gloved.

Healthcare PPE protocols from WHO

Office and Light-Duty PPE Safety

41. Eye strain? Use blue light glasses.
42. PPE for ergonomics includes wrist supports and monitor filters.
43. Hearing protection in print rooms matters.
44. Footwear with grip prevents office slips.
45. Carrying loads? Use gloves with palm padding.
46. Use screen shields to protect sensitive info (PPE for privacy!).
47. Sit-stand desks are part of ergonomic PPE.
48. Lifting files? Use proper gloves to avoid paper cuts and pinches.
49. Face coverings in shared spaces = shared responsibility.
50. PPE isn’t just for high-risk jobs—every task counts.

Agriculture, Forestry & Outdoor PPE Advice

51. Sun protection is PPE—don’t skip the hat and SPF.
52. Chainsaw chaps are not optional—they’re lifesavers.
53. Bug netting? It’s PPE for vector control.
54. Hearing protection for tractors is essential.
55. Steel-toed waterproof boots are gold in wet environments.
56. Use safety glasses even during field harvests.
57. Masks matter when handling fertilizers or manure.
58. Carry extra PPE in your utility bag—it pays off.
59. Protect your lungs from dust and spores.
60. Layers are PPE against weather extremes.

Mining and Confined Space PPE

61. Your helmet saves your brain—check it daily.
62. Respirators must be tested and certified.
63. Carry a backup light on your helmet.
64. Don’t enter confined spaces without a gas detector.
65. Fire-retardant clothing is non-negotiable underground.
66. Tag and inspect all PPE before each use.
67. Never enter alone—buddy systems save lives.
68. Know your escape route—and gear for it.
69. Use PPE that’s flame- and chemical-resistant.
70. In mining, every inch of PPE matters.

Oil, Gas, and High-Risk Industry PPE Reminders

71. Arc-rated clothing is essential for electrical tasks.
72. Anti-static gear prevents ignition—especially offshore.
73. Respiratory PPE must match the hazard level.
74. Use gloves with chemical and thermal resistance.
75. Eye protection must wrap around completely.
76. Flame-retardant suits need regular inspection.
77. Every tool should be PPE-rated for explosive zones.
78. PPE must stay secured—avoid dangling straps.
79. When in doubt, wear the higher protection level.
80. Your survival suit isn’t a backup—it’s essential gear.

Emotional and Situational PPE Mindsets

81. Your attitude is part of your PPE.
82. Be your coworker’s reminder—they might forget.
83. Confidence in PPE leads to better safety habits.
84. Don’t skip PPE just because it’s a “quick job.”
85. Remind new hires and visitors—kindly.
86. Posters help, but peer reminders help more.
87. Be the person who always asks, “Where’s your PPE?”
88. Leaders should wear PPE proudly—it sets the tone.
89. Keep your PPE clean. Dirty gear is risky gear.
90. Invest in comfort—it leads to compliance.

Final PPE Tips That Make a Difference

91. No PPE? Don’t do the task.
92. Fit testing is not optional.
93. Store PPE properly—respect your tools.
94. Know the expiry date of your PPE.
95. Training is your PPE for the brain.
96. Audits aren’t punishments—they’re prevention tools.
97. PPE should be discussed in every safety meeting.
98. A missing glove is a hazard—report it.
99. Don’t wait to report worn-out PPE.
100. The best PPE is the one you always remember to wear.

Why These PPE Reminders Matter

These PPE reminders that could save a life aren’t just tips—they’re the foundation of safe behavior. Every industry has risks, and PPE is a frontline tool to reduce the severity and frequency of injuries. Whether it’s a steel-toe boot, a respirator, or a helmet, what you wear today can make sure you return home safely tomorrow.

For more insights and Canadian workplace safety resources, check out CCOHS, WorkSafeBC, or OHSE.ca.

And don’t forget—your coworkers are watching. Let’s make PPE use the norm, not the exception.