What if Employees refuse to wear the equipment provided?
You should at first ascertain the reason why – it could be that there are medical reasons and if so you may require this to be supported by medical evidence and/or a medical examination. In these circumstances investigate what alternatives may be available. If none are found then it may be that the employee can no longer perform the task as they cannot be adequately protected. If the reason for not wearing PPE is as a direct refusal then the issue may have to be handled through an appropriate disciplinary process. You cannot allow employees to put themselves and possibly others at risk. It is not acceptable for an employee to offer to sign a waiver to abrogate the employer from responsibility. The employer is still legally responsibility.
