You can rely on personal protective equipment and machine safety devices to protect you from incidental contact with dangerous equipment.

Relying solely on personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety devices for protection from dangerous equipment is inadequate because these measures are generally considered to be the last line of defense in a comprehensive safety program. While PPE can offer significant protection against incidental contact, and safety devices are designed to prevent accidents, they should not replace fundamental safety practices and hazard control measures.

The best approach is to minimize exposure to hazards through engineering controls, administrative controls, and safe work practices. PPE and safety devices must be part of a broader safety strategy that includes training, proper maintenance of equipment, and following established safety protocols. Incidental contact with dangerous equipment can still result in injury if proper safety measures are not in place and if reliance on PPE or safety devices leads to complacency. Thus, recognizing that these tools are essential but insufficient on their own supports the understanding that safety must be holistic and proactive rather than reactive.