My employer has given me protective clothing for a job. Do I have to wear it?

Yes. Your employer can tell you to wear safety equipment (such as gloves, visor, or boots) and if you don't, they are entitled to take disciplinary action, including excluding you from the workplace.

You are required by the Health and Safety at Work Act to:

• Take reasonable care for your own health and safety and that of others who may be affected by what you do or do not do
• Co-operate with your employer on health and safety
• Correctly use work items provided by your employer, including personal protective equipment, in accordance with training or instructions
• Not interfere with or misuse anything provided for your health and safety or welfare.

Protective equipment or clothing must be used when you are in a risk-intense environment and need to be protected. Of course any protective gear has to fit, and be appropriate for the situation. It shouldn't cause you pain or serious discomfort. If it does, you should negotiate alternative equipment or arrangements. Don't be put off. Sometimes employers can, out of caution, interpret health and safety rules too rigidly.

And of course you shouldn't be required to pay for protective equipment or clothing that you need. However, if your employer buys the gear they are entitled to keep it when you leave.

There is more information on this issue on the web at the Health and Safety Executive's website.

You should also consider raising the issue with your union health and safety rep, if you have one.