Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Practice Test

What is one reason for the mandatory provision of RPE by employers?

1. To cut costs

2. To comply with health and safety regulations

3. To meet employee requests

4. To improve company image

The correct answer is: To comply with health and safety regulations

The mandatory provision of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) by employers is primarily to comply with health and safety regulations. These regulations are designed to protect workers from inhaling hazardous substances that could lead to serious health issues, such as respiratory diseases or even acute poisoning. The law typically requires that employers assess the risks in the workplace and provide appropriate protective equipment when necessary, ensuring that workers have the means to safeguard their health while performing their jobs. Compliance not only demonstrates a commitment to employee safety but also protects the company legally and supports a culture of health and safety on site. In contrast, while cutting costs, meeting employee requests, or improving company image may be considerations for employers, they do not encompass the primary legal obligation to ensure worker safety as mandated by health and safety regulations. Providing RPE as part of these regulations is fundamentally about protecting workers rather than any of the other reasons.