When Should PPE Be Changed? A Guide to PPE Maintenance and Inspections

When was the last time you did a full check on your personal protective equipment—not just a glance, but a real PPE inspection? If you're like many workers, PPE becomes part of the routine: gloves go on, glasses come out of the hard hat, respirator gets tossed in the truck. But the truth is, PPE has a shelf life—and so does its effectiveness.

If your gear is outdated, worn out, or no longer suited to the hazards of your job, you could be putting yourself at risk. This guide will walk you through when to replace PPE, what to watch out for, and what new gear is worth considering.

PPE Isn’t Forever: When Should PPE Be Changed?

Even if your PPE looks okay on the surface, it may not be offering the protection it once did. Here's a breakdown of recommended replacement cycles for common gear—based on manufacturer guidelines and field best practices:

Gloves

• Daily-use gloves (cut-resistant, impact, coated): Replace every 1–4 weeks, depending on job intensity and visible wear.
  
  
• Signs it's time: Fraying at seams, thinning coating, loss of grip, holes or tears.
  
  

 Hard Hats

• Replace immediately if dropped or impacted—damage isn’t always visible.

• Inspect regularly for cracks, brittleness, fading, or other signs of wear.

• Check inside the shell for the stamped “date of manufacture.”

• Follow manufacturer-specific guidelines for service life and replacement.

Respirators & Filters

• Disposable N95 masks: One shift or until wet/damaged.
  
  
• Reusable respirators: Inspect monthly; replace every 6–12 months.
  
  
• Filters/cartridges: Most expire 6–12 months after opening.
  
  

Safety Glasses

• Replace when scratched, cracked, or when anti-fog/UV coatings degrade.
  
  
• Typically every 6–12 months for daily users.
  
  

 Pro Tip: PPE that doesn’t fit well is just as risky—if it’s loose, slipping, uncomfortable, it’s time to replace or refit.

New PPE Clothing Options Are Changing the Game

The world of PPE clothing has evolved significantly in recent years. There are now more options than ever—designed for real-world fit, improved comfort, and inclusive sizing for every worker on the team.

One of the biggest advancements? New women’s PPE clothing standards in construction and manufacturing. For years, many women had to make do with downsized men’s gear that didn’t fit properly. Today, top PPE brands offer purpose-built FR gear, high-vis vests, work pants, and outerwear designed with women’s proportions and movement in mind. Better fit means better coverage, fewer distractions, and greater confidence on the job.

Modern gear also includes:

• Moisture-wicking fabrics for hot conditions
  
  
• Layering systems for all-weather protection
  
  
• Enhanced mobility features like stretch panels and contoured cuts
  
  
• High-visibility options with segmented reflective striping

Choosing updated apparel isn’t just about comfort—it helps align your crew with today’s jobsite safety expectations and industry standards.

Why PPE Maintenance and Inspections Matters

Let’s be clear: outdated PPE isn’t just uncomfortable—it may not meet today’s performance or compliance standards. Regularly inspecting and replacing your PPE, ensuring your gear is current helps create a safer work environment and supports alignment with industry regulations.

Whether it’s updating gloves, upgrading to better-fitting eyewear or making sure your apparel meets ANSI or FR guidelines, staying on top of your PPE is a smart, proactive way to protect yourself and your team.

How Rodeno Sales Can Help with PPE Maintenance

At Rodeno Sales Solutions, we specialize in helping end-users like you stay protected with the right gear, at the right time. We partner with trusted manufacturers like PIP to offer:

• Tailored product recommendations based on your job role and environment
  
  
• On-site PPE assessments to evaluate fit, condition, and coverage gaps
  
  
• Updates on new PPE innovations, including women’s clothing and workwear
  
  
• Free demos and guidance on product selection and fit testing

Ready for a PPE Refresh?

Don’t wait for an incident to realize your gear isn’t doing its job. Start with a quick self-check:

1. When was your PPE last inspected or replaced?
   
   
2. Is your gear still matched to your current job hazards?
   
   
3. Are you wearing PPE that actually fits and feels right?

If you're unsure, we’re here to help. Whether you need a second opinion or a full site-wide assessment, our team has your back.

Schedule a PPE Site Walk – Our safety specialists will assess your current equipment, identify gaps, and recommend gear that’s tailored to your worksite.

Browse the PIP Product Catalog – Explore the latest gloves, safety glasses, respirators, and workwear from one of the industry's top PPE manufacturers.