(Because Nobody Wins When the Gloves Stay in the Toolbox)
Let’s be honest. PPE compliance isn’t always about knowledge—it’s about behaviour. Most workers know they should wear safety glasses, hearing protection, or high-vis gear. But actually doing it? That’s a different story.
You’ve probably seen it (or lived it):
And suddenly, a preventable injury is a near miss—or worse.
So here’s the big question: How do you improve PPE compliance without turning into a full-time nag?
If you’re running a business or managing a crew in Canada, PPE use isn’t optional. It’s the law. But it’s also a culture thing. Let’s unpack how you can boost buy-in, avoid blowouts, and keep everyone’s fingers, eyes, and futures intact.
Yes, PPE protects people. Yes, it’s legally required. But there’s more going on here.
When workers don’t wear PPE, it signals deeper issues:
That stuff spreads. One person not wearing hearing protection tells others it’s okay to ignore site rules. Before you know it, you’ve got a crew full of noncompliance and a job site full of risk.
Need a refresher on Canadian PPE requirements? Start with Alberta’s OH&S Code, Part 18 – Personal Protective Equipment:
https://www.alberta.ca/ohs-act-regulation-code
This might seem basic, but you'd be surprised how often people ignore it.
If workers are removing or avoiding PPE, ask why. Common reasons include:
You can’t fix PPE noncompliance until you fix PPE usability. That means:
Pro tip: let workers try on different options and give feedback before rolling out a new style of gloves or respirators.
At Calgary Safety Consultants, we help businesses assess PPE hazards, select the right equipment, and match it to real-world job demands. It’s not just about buying gear—it’s about getting it right.
https://calgarysafetyconsultants.ca/contact/
One-time PPE training during orientation is not enough.
You need ongoing, scenario-based PPE education that answers questions like:
Training also has to be relevant. If you're showing generic PowerPoints that don’t reflect your team’s actual tasks, people will tune out. Tailor training to each job role and environment.
Calgary Safety Consultants offers online and in-person PPE training that’s updated for Canadian OH&S standards—and built for workers, not regulators.
https://calgarysafetyconsultants.ca/training/
Here’s where PPE compliance really lives or dies: frontline leadership.
If supervisors ignore PPE, joke about it, or selectively enforce it, your compliance rate is going to tank. Workers follow behaviour, not policy.
Make it crystal clear that supervisors are accountable for:
And support them with tools like PPE checklists, pre-job briefs, and compliance scorecards. We can help you build those.
We also coach supervisors on how to have those “tough but fair” conversations that drive accountability without conflict.
If someone’s PPE doesn’t fit, fogs up constantly, or causes discomfort, they need a way to say something without feeling like a complainer.
Set up simple channels to report:
Even a clipboard on the wall or a quick daily safety huddle can surface the issues that lead to bigger ones.
Want to go a step further? Reward good PPE habits. Not with pizza parties or cash, but with real recognition—peer shout-outs, incident-free crew celebrations, or priority on new gear trials.
If you don’t inspect it, you don’t control it. It’s that simple.
Build PPE checks into:
Track noncompliance trends. Who’s skipping eye protection most often? What zones see the most PPE violations? Use that data to drive your next toolbox talk, your next training refresh, or your next supervisor coaching session.
We help Alberta companies build these systems without drowning in paperwork. Just ask us for a field-ready PPE audit checklist.
https://calgarysafetyconsultants.ca
Sometimes, people tune out safety messaging because it’s too generic. “Wear gloves or else” doesn’t cut it.
But when you talk about:
...that gets people thinking.
PPE isn’t just about avoiding rules—it’s about protecting your ability to work, earn, play with your kids, hear your friends, and live your life fully.
When Calgary Safety Consultants facilitates PPE workshops, we tie it to real people, real outcomes, and real stories. That’s what moves the needle.
“It’s just a quick job.”
So are most accidents.
“I’ve done this a hundred times.”
Great. That doesn’t change the risk.
“This gear slows me down.”
Injuries slow you down more. We’ll help you find better gear.
“Nobody else wears it.”
Leadership will be addressing that immediately.
According to the Alberta OHS Code and most other provincial regulations in Canada:
You can’t just “offer” PPE. You have to ensure it’s worn.
Read more here:
https://www.alberta.ca/ohs-act-regulation-code
Need help with compliance? We’ll walk you through your requirements based on your specific industry, crew size, and risk exposure.
We work with companies across Alberta to improve PPE compliance—not by preaching rules, but by building smart systems and practical habits.
Here’s what we offer:
We don’t sell gear—we sell buy-in. And we’ve helped teams move from “whatever” to “on it” with just a few small but powerful changes.
Get in touch here:
https://calgarysafetyconsultants.ca/contact/
The difference between a PPE program and a PPE culture is leadership. A program is rules, posters, and purchases. A culture is people watching out for each other, taking pride in protection, and calling each other in when things get lax.
You can build that culture. We can help you lead it.
If you’re ready to tighten up your PPE compliance, Calgary Safety Consultants is here to guide you! Contact Calgary Safety Consultants for your complimentary consult to explore tailored OH&S solutions that drive real results.
Start with a hazard assessment to identify risks, then match the PPE to the specific hazards. Ensure the gear is comfortable, fits well, and meets CSA (Canadian Standards Association) standards.
Common PPE includes hard hats, safety goggles, gloves, steel-toed boots, and ear protection, depending on the industry and job tasks.
Yes! Alberta OH&S regulations require employers to provide training on proper PPE use, including how to wear, maintain, and inspect it.
Non-compliance can lead to fines up to $500,000, legal actions, and reputational damage.
Non-compliance can lead to fines, legal consequences, and increased workplace risks.
It often comes down to a mix of poor training, inconsistent enforcement, and uncomfortable or ill-fitting gear. Culture plays a huge role—if leadership doesn’t set the tone, noncompliance spreads.
Calgary Safety Consultants is here to help you ensure compliance, enhance safety, and streamline your OH&S program. Don’t wait—fill out the form, and we’ll connect with you to discuss how we can support your business. Let’s get started!
Calgary Safety Consultants delivers game-changing COR Audits and OH&S consulting designed to keep your business safe, compliant, and accident-free. With 30+ years of expertise in high-risk industries like oil & gas, construction, and manufacturing, we understand the unique challenges you face. We offer tailored safety solutions that not only meet regulatory standards but also reduce operational risks and protect your workforce. From conducting thorough safety audits to implementing comprehensive safety management systems, we ensure your team is fully supported. Our hands-on, collaborative approach means we're with you every step of the way, helping you achieve a safer, more efficient workplace. Let us handle the heavy lifting so your team stays protected, and your business thrives!
