Many workplace accidents with severe consequences occur not due to the absence of PPE, but due to the use of degraded equipment, equipment past its expiration date, or lack of proper maintenance.

Factors affecting equipment service life

  • UV and Weather Degradation: Plastic helmets and polyester harness webbing lose elasticity and retention capacity when continuously exposed to sunlight and humidity.
  • Chemical Filter Saturation: Respiratory protective filters (EN 14387) have a retention capacity limited by exposure time and the concentration of organic/inorganic vapors in the air.
  • Mechanical Glove Wear: Loss of grip and coating thickness of nitrile or polyurethane after heavy use.

JCR recommends implementing a formal periodic audit plan and provides the PPE Service Life application to facilitate monitoring the equipment lifecycle within your organization.