Protective Equipment in the Trades: What is Mandatory and What is Recommended?
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Protective Equipment in the Trades: What is Mandatory?
Last updated: August 3, 2026
Risks are part of everyday work in the trades. Whether wood dust, metal chips, noise or chemicals – anyone working without protective equipment risks serious injury. This guide shows which PPE is legally required in the trades and what is additionally recommended.
Legal Basis: PPE in the Trades
- Occupational Health and Safety Act (ArbSchG) – the basis for all protective measures at work
- PPE Use Regulation (PSA-BV) – governs the provision and use of PPE
- PPE Regulation 2016/425/EU – European standard for manufacturing and certification
- DGUV regulations – trade association rules specific to each trade
The Most Important Protective Equipment at a Glance
1. Eye Protection
Chips, dust and splashes endanger the eyes in almost every trade activity. CE-certified safety goggles to EN 166 are mandatory for:
- Grinding, milling, drilling and sawing
- Working with chemicals or caustic agents
- Painting and spraying
- Welding and cutting
2. Respiratory Protection
Dust, fumes and aerosols can damage the airways over the long term. Requirements vary depending on the hazard:
- FFP2 mask – for wood dust, fine dust, general dust work
- FFP3 mask – for carcinogenic dust (e.g. hardwood dust, asbestos)
- Type IIR surgical mask – for hygienic work areas and light dust exposure
3. Hearing Protection
Hearing protection is mandatory when noise exposure exceeds 85 dB(A) – particularly for carpenters, joiners, metalworkers and screed layers.
4. Hand Protection
Protective gloves guard against cuts, chemicals and heat. Different types are required depending on the task.
5. Foot Protection
Safety shoes (S1, S2 or S3) are mandatory on construction sites and in many trade businesses – with steel toe caps and slip-resistant soles.
Which Safety Goggles for Which Trade?
| Trade / Activity | Recommended Goggles | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Carpenter / joiner | Classic safety goggles | EN 166 |
| Painter / decorator | Full-vision goggles | EN 166 |
| Metalworker | Classic safety goggles | EN 166 |
| Roofer (outdoor) | Tinted safety goggles | EN 166 + EN 172 |
| Tiler | Classic safety goggles | EN 166 |
| Electrician | Classic safety goggles | EN 166 |
Common Mistakes When Handling PPE
- Not wearing PPE, or wearing it rarely – even brief activities can lead to injury
- Wrong PPE for the task – not every pair of safety goggles is suitable for every hazard
- Continuing to use damaged PPE – scratched lenses significantly reduce protection
- Not checking certification – only CE-marked PPE offers reliable protection
Frequently Asked Questions About Protective Equipment in the Trades
What protective equipment is legally required in the trades?
Depending on the task, eye protection (CE-certified safety goggles to EN 166), respiratory protection (FFP2 or FFP3 mask), hearing protection above 85 dB(A), hand protection and foot protection (S1-S3 safety shoes) are required. This is based on the Occupational Health and Safety Act, the PPE Use Regulation and DGUV regulations.
At what noise level is hearing protection mandatory?
Hearing protection is mandatory when noise exposure exceeds 85 dB(A). This particularly affects carpenters, joiners, metalworkers and screed layers.
Which safety goggles are suitable for which trade?
Carpenters, metalworkers, tilers and electricians need classic safety goggles to EN 166. Painters and decorators should wear full-vision goggles to EN 166. Roofers and other outdoor trades benefit from tinted safety goggles to EN 166 and EN 172.
Which respiratory mask do I need for wood dust?
An FFP2 mask is generally sufficient for wood dust and general dust work. For carcinogenic dust such as hardwood dust or asbestos, an FFP3 mask is required.
Conclusion
Protective equipment in the trades is not a tiresome obligation – it protects health and the ability to work. Anyone who relies on high-quality, CE-certified PPE is legally on the safe side and protects themselves against occupational illness in the long term.
Our safety goggles and respiratory masks from Kela Schutzartikel are CE-certified, Made in Germany and suitable for professional use in the trades.
