
In every workplace, safety should always come first. Having the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) and tools is critical to doing the job safely and effectively. However, there may come a time when you’re asked to perform a task without the proper equipment. Knowing what steps to take in this situation is essential for your safety and that of those around you. Here’s a guide to handling these moments responsibly.
1. Assess the Task’s Hazards Before You Start
Before you start a task, take a moment to evaluate its risks. Consider whether the job involves chemicals, high temperatures, sharp objects, or heavy machinery. Each of these hazards may require specific types of PPE or tools to ensure safety. Understanding the hazards will allow you to make informed decisions about the appropriate steps to take. It is better to stop and plan and prepare a few minutes before a job than to possibly waste several hours responding to a serious incident because you did not have the right equipment.
2. Do Not Proceed Without Proper Equipment
It can be tempting to try and “make do” with what you have, especially if you feel pressure to complete the task quickly. However, working without the correct equipment can lead to serious injury or worse. PPE is specifically designed to protect you from the risks associated with each job, so working without it is simply not worth the risk. Do not start the task until you have what you need!
3. Communicate with Your Supervisor
Informing your supervisor or manager of the equipment shortfall is crucial. Explain why you feel the equipment or tools provided are inadequate for the job at hand. This discussion should focus on the specific hazards and how the lack of equipment could impact not only your safety but also the productivity and well-being of the team.
4. Document Your Concerns
If you’ve raised concerns with your supervisor and still feel pressured to work without the correct PPE, document the interaction. Note the date, time, the person you spoke with, and the specifics of the task. Documenting your concerns shows that you took responsible action to prioritize safety and can serve as evidence if an incident were to occur.
5. Be Aware of Your Rights
Workers have the right to a safe workplace, which includes the right to refuse work that is unsafe. Know the specific safety policies and procedures of your organization, as well as any local labor laws that protect workers from being put in hazardous situations. Many regions have laws that make it illegal for employers to retaliate against workers who refuse unsafe work.
6. Work Together to Improve Safety Standards
Finally, use this situation as a springboard for continuous improvement. Consider speaking up in safety meetings, joining the safety committee, or even participating in equipment and PPE reviews. By contributing to a safer workplace, you help prevent similar situations for yourself and your colleagues in the future.
In Summary
When asked to perform a task without the right PPE or tools, remember: stop, assess, communicate, document, and know your rights. Safety should never be compromised, and taking the correct steps protects you, your coworkers, and your workplace as a whole.

Register for Upcoming Trainings
Stay informed and enhance your workplace strategies with our variety of training sessions, designed to provide valuable knowledge and real-world solutions. Whether you’re looking to improve your workers’ compensation processes, brush up on payroll practices, or explore new resources, we have something for you!
Virtual Round Tables on Workers’ Compensation
Gain insights and share ideas in our quarterly virtual round tables. Each session features a short presentation followed by an open discussion. Submit your questions in advance to ensure a customized experience.
- February 4, 9:30 a.m. – Return to Work Strategies
- Perfect for monthly safety meetings. All sessions are recorded.
- Register Now
Webinar: Accurate Payroll Reporting
Learn how to ensure your estimated premium is accurate with tips on payroll inclusions/exclusions, calculating overtime, and more.
- March 18, 9:30 a.m. – Via Zoom
- Register Now
LEARN Webinars
Focused sessions to build your expertise:
- February 11 – Basics
- February 13 – Advanced
- February 19 – What’s New
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Just Around the Corner – OSHA Reporting

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recordkeeping deadline is fast approaching. OSHA requires employers with 11 or more employees to track and report work-related injuries and illnesses annually, from February 1 to April 30. To comply, employers need to complete and maintain three key forms.
1. OSHA 300 Form
- Purpose: Log of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses.
- Details: Record every work-related death, injury, or illness meeting OSHA recordkeeping requirements.
2. OSHA 300A Form
- Purpose: Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses.
- Requirements:
- Must be posted by February 1 and remain posted through April 30.
- Displayed in areas where other workplace notices are customarily placed.
- Certified and signed by a company executive to ensure accuracy.
- Note: Even if no injuries or illnesses occurred during the year, the 300A form must still be posted with zeros in all fields.
3. OSHA 301 Form
- Purpose: Injury and Illness Incident Report.
- Details: This form is completed for each recordable injury or illness.
Simplify Your Recordkeeping with IMWCA Tools
IMWCA provides resources to streamline your OSHA recordkeeping process:
- Company Nurse: Your first call for workplace injuries automatically generates a First Report of Injury, fulfilling the OSHA 301 Form requirement.
- RTWNow and Tracker Tool: Our user-friendly online platform simplifies the completion of OSHA forms. With some input from the employer, this tool makes recordkeeping a breeze.
To learn more about RTWNow and the Tracker Tool, contact: Lisa England
at 515-350-3362 or lisaengland@iowaleague.org. Make sure your organization is ready for the deadline and compliant with OSHA requirements!

Mark your calendar for IMWCA University, April 23-24 in Johnston. Training and networking designed for local government employees will include topics on safety programs, human resources, round table discussions and more.