If you want to see the new rule in its entirety, you can click on the link in the first post on this subject.

In summary, the new (and final) rule doesn’t create new requirements for what PPE employers must provide.  It does require employers to pay for almost all PPE covered by OSHA regs.  There are, however, exceptions for some PPE, such as safety-toe footwear, prescription safety eyewear, everyday clothing, weather-related gear, and logging boots.  Also, if an employee loses or intentional damages PPE, the employer doesn’t have to pay for the replacement.

The good news is that the enforcement deadline for the new rule is six months from the date of the rule’s publication, November 15, 2007.  The purpose of this delay is to give employers time to change PPE payment policies and, if need be, collective bargaining agreements.