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Encouraging PPE Use

People skip protective gear for reasons that make sense to them: it is hot, it does not fit, it is not at hand, or the job seems quick. Solving those reasons works better than scolding.

Why do people skip PPE?

Common reasons are discomfort, heat, poor fit, forgetting, cost, and a belief that nothing will happen. Some workers fear looking weak or slow in front of others.

Ask people what gets in the way. Their answers tell you what to fix.

For some people the barrier is cost or access, particularly for seasonal workers who bring their own gear. Providing items removes that obstacle. Past experience also matters. Someone who has worked for years without an injury may feel that gear is unnecessary, so share stories of near misses, without blame. Fear of blame can also keep people from admitting that gear does not work for them, so make asking for help feel normal.

How does leadership help?

When owners, managers, and experienced workers wear PPE, others follow. When leaders skip it, a rule on paper counts for little.

State clearly what is expected and why. Link it to the specific hazard in simple terms.

A short written policy that says what is expected on each job helps, and so does a chance for workers to ask questions. Recognize that habits take time to change, and keep encouraging after the first week.

• Wear it yourself.
• Explain the hazard in plain words.
• Be consistent.

How do I make PPE easy to use?

Keep gear clean, in good repair, in the right sizes, and stored where each task begins. Offer choices where the job allows, such as lighter styles.

If something is uncomfortable, look for another option instead of dismissing the complaint.

Replace worn items quickly. A cracked pair of goggles or a torn glove tells workers the gear is not valued. Let workers try several models and choose, within what the job requires. Comfort increases use. Keep a small stock of spares, such as extra gloves, ear plugs, and safety glasses, near the door so that forgetting is never the reason someone goes without.

How do I talk about it without blame?

Ask questions instead of accusing. 'What would make this easier to wear?' goes further than a warning. Praise good habits when you see them.

Make it normal to speak up if someone sees a coworker without gear.

If you must correct someone, do it privately and calmly, and ask what would help them comply. Invite workers to remind each other, and thank them when they do. Short, regular conversations during work, such as a quick check before starting a job, do more than a long meeting once a year.

What about incentives and rules?

Rules matter, and so do reminders and routines. Ask OSHA and your state about requirements that apply to your operation.

Avoid rewards that encourage hiding injuries or near misses.

Keep rewards small and group-based, such as a shared lunch for a season with no lost-time injuries, only if reporting stays honest. Check OSHA and your state for what you must provide and enforce. Remember that fear of getting in trouble can discourage people from reporting injuries, so keep any program supportive and honest. Reminders work best when they come with a clear explanation.

What about family members and young workers?

Teens may resist gear for social reasons. Involve them in choosing items that fit and look acceptable. Confirm youth work rules with the U.S. Department of Labor.

Explain risks calmly without frightening them.

Pair a young worker with a respected older worker who wears gear consistently, and let them choose fit and style together. Remind families that young workers may be limited in the tasks they may perform.

How do I keep it going, and what if someone still refuses?

Review gear and habits each season. Replace worn items and respond to feedback. Share near misses without blame.

Use safety days and extension resources.

Look at injury and near-miss reports each season to see where gear use needs attention. Celebrate improvement, and share what works with neighbors and your extension office. Start by listening. A person who refuses may have a reason you can solve, such as a skin reaction, poor fit, or a past bad experience. Offer another model or a trial period, and follow up. If the refusal continues for a job that requires gear, explain calmly that the task cannot go ahead without it, and check with OSHA and your state about your responsibilities as an employer or supervisor. Keep the tone respectful and focused on safety, not on winning.

Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Farm Safety Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.