Can personal protective equipment (PPE) be modified?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed to provide specific safety and protection functions, and altering PPE can compromise its effectiveness. The correct response emphasizes the importance of adhering to manufacturer guidelines, which includes the labels and instructions provided with the equipment. If a label specifies certain conditions under which modifications are permissible, one must follow those directions closely to maintain safety standards.

When modifying PPE, understanding the implications on safety and compliance is crucial. In most cases, it is recommended to use PPE as intended without modification unless the manufacturer explicitly states that modifications are accepted. The intent is to ensure the PPE continues to offer the maximum level of protection intended by its design.