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Safety & compliance

PPE selector

Tick the hazards a task involves and get a recommended list of personal protective equipment — a prompt for your risk assessment, on top of general site PPE.

Hazards present
Tick every hazard the task involves.
Recommended PPE
2 items
General site PPE always applies. Tick the task’s hazards to add specific protection.
  • Hi-vis clothing
  • Steel-cap safety boots

PPE is the last line of defence. First eliminate the hazard or use higher-order controls (substitution, engineering, administrative) — PPE is used for the risk that remains.

traqR keeps your SWMS, PPE requirements and site records against each job so the right gear is specified before work starts.

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How it works

1

Identify the hazards

Work through the task and tick every hazard it exposes workers to — heights, noise, dust, chemicals, electrical and the rest.

2

Match the protection

Each hazard calls for specific PPE. The tool combines them into a single recommended list, on top of general site PPE.

3

Control first, then PPE

Remember PPE sits at the bottom of the hierarchy of controls — use it for residual risk after you’ve eliminated or reduced the hazard as far as practicable.

Frequently asked questions

How do I choose the right PPE?

Start from the hazards. Identify what the task exposes workers to — falling objects, noise, airborne dust, chemicals, flying particles, electricity, UV and so on — and select PPE rated for each. This tool maps common construction hazards to the protective equipment they typically require.

Why is PPE the last resort?

The hierarchy of controls ranks ways to manage risk from most to least effective: eliminate, substitute, isolate/engineer, administrative controls, then PPE. PPE only protects the individual wearing it and only if it’s worn correctly, so it’s used for the risk left after higher-order controls — not as the first or only measure.

Is PPE legally required?

Where PPE is the control relied on, WHS law requires the business to provide it, ensure it’s suitable, maintained and worn, and to train workers in its use — at no cost to the worker. The specific requirements come from the risk assessment and relevant codes of practice.

Does this cover respiratory protection selection?

Only at a general level. Respirator selection (filter type, fit testing, and protection factor) depends on the specific substance and exposure and must follow the safety data sheet and AS/NZS 1715/1716. Treat the respirator suggestions here as a prompt, not a specification.

This selector is a general prompt, not a substitute for a task-specific risk assessment. PPE selection must follow the hierarchy of controls, the relevant safety data sheets and Australian Standards (e.g. AS/NZS 1715/1716 for respiratory), and your WHS obligations. Confirm requirements with a competent person.

Specify the gear before work starts

traqR keeps SWMS, PPE requirements and site records against each job. Try it free for 14 days.

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