Toolbox Talk Template: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Whether you’re working at height, handling chemicals, or exposed to unpredictable environments, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is often the last line of defence protecting window cleaners from serious harm.

To support our members in maintaining high health and safety standards, the Window Cleaners Association (WCA) has released a downloadable PPE Toolbox Talk — based on the latest HSE PPE at Work Regulations 2022.

✅ What This Resource Covers

This simple, editable 3-page PDF template is designed to help you deliver legally sound toolbox talks to your team, and includes:

A clear explanation of what PPE is and why it matters
Employer and employee responsibilities under UK law
A breakdown of different PPE types and their limitations
Practical window cleaning-specific examples (e.g. gloves for chemical safety, eye protection, anti-slip footwear, etc.)
A ready-to-use briefing sign-off sheet
Editable spaces for your company name, logo, and address

⚠️ Why PPE Is Crucial in Window Cleaning

While many hazards in our industry can be controlled by using the right systems and equipment, there are some situations — like chemical splash risk, high pressure spray, noise, or falling objects — where PPE becomes essential.

Examples of relevant PPE for window cleaners include:

Protective gloves for chemical handling
Safety glasses or face shields for spraying chemicals or scraping
High-visibility clothing on public or shared access sites
Anti-slip, waterproof footwear
Harnesses when working in certain rope access or MEWP scenarios

This toolbox talk helps you reinforce why PPE is essential and not optional.

📋 Legal Reminder: What Employers Must Do

Under the PPE at Work (Amendment) Regulations 2022, employers must:

Provide PPE free of charge to all workers (including limb (b) workers)
Ensure it is compatible, suitable, CE-marked (or UKCA marked) and well maintained
Provide training on proper use and care
Replace any damaged or missing PPE promptly
Include PPE in all relevant risk assessments

Employees are legally required to use PPE properly, report damage, and follow instructions.

⚠️ WCA Member Disclaimer

WCA Liability Disclaimer

This document is provided as a template for informational use only. It does not replace a workplace-specific risk assessment, COSHH assessment, or formal training.

Employers remain legally responsible for ensuring that PPE is appropriate, maintained, and used in line with current UK HSE PPE regulations.

The WCA accepts no liability for injury, enforcement action, or damage resulting from the use or misuse of this document.

📚 HSE Sources

For the latest guidance on PPE, we recommend all members review:

🔽 Download the Template