There's a lot of confusion on Kiwi worksites about who's responsible for safety gear — especially who pays for boots, hi-vis and hard hats. Here's what the law actually says, in plain English. (This is general guidance, not legal advice — check WorkSafe NZ for the detail.)
Whose job is PPE — the employer's or the worker's?
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, the primary duty sits with the PCBU — the "person conducting a business or undertaking", i.e. the business itself. Where PPE is needed to keep a worker safe, the PCBU must provide it, make sure it's suitable for the hazard and the person, and maintain it in good working order. Workers have duties too, but supplying the gear isn't one of them.
Does PPE have to be free?
In practice, yes. WorkSafe NZ's position is that required PPE should be provided at no cost to the worker. A business can't meet its safety duty by pushing the cost of essential safety gear onto its staff. Some employers offer a boot allowance or let workers choose their own boots by agreement — that's fine, as long as the footwear is suitable and the business ensures it. Browse safety boots →
What PPE might a NZ workplace need?
| Hazard | Typical PPE |
|---|---|
| Falling objects / head | Safety helmets |
| Being seen / traffic | Hi-vis clothing |
| Foot injury | Safety boots |
| Eye injury | Safety eyewear |
| Noise | Hearing protection |
| Hands | Gloves |
Browse the full PPE range to kit out a team.
PPE is the last line of defence
One thing the law is firm on: PPE comes last. Businesses must first try to eliminate a hazard, then reduce it with things like isolation, guarding or better systems of work — and use PPE to control whatever risk is left. PPE protects the individual, but it doesn't remove the hazard, so it's never a substitute for making the job itself safer.
Keep PPE working: inspect and replace it
Providing PPE is only step one — the business must keep it in good order, and worn gear must be replaced. For how long each type of PPE lasts and when to swap it out, see our PPE inspection & replacement guide.
Frequently asked questions
Does my employer have to provide PPE in New Zealand?
Yes. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, the business (the PCBU) must provide any PPE a worker needs to do their job safely, and keep it in good working order — it's not optional.
Who pays for PPE at work?
The PCBU. WorkSafe NZ guidance is clear that the business should provide required PPE at no cost to the worker. If a worker chooses to supply their own suitable PPE by agreement, the business must still make sure it's appropriate and maintained.
Can my employer make me buy my own work boots?
Generally no — if safety footwear is required PPE for the role, the business is responsible for providing it. Some workplaces offer a boot allowance or subsidy by agreement, but the legal duty to ensure suitable PPE sits with the PCBU, not the worker.
What are workers' responsibilities for PPE?
Workers must use the PPE they're given properly, follow training and instructions, look after it, and report any damage or loss so it can be repaired or replaced.
Is PPE the first line of defence against workplace hazards?
No — PPE is the last line of defence. The law expects businesses to first try to eliminate or reduce a hazard (for example by isolation or engineering controls), and use PPE to manage the risk that remains.
Kiwi Workgear are workwear and safety specialists based in Masterton, supplying tradies, farmers and forestry crews across New Zealand since 2009. Free NZ shipping on orders over $250.
General information only, not legal advice — see WorkSafe New Zealand for current guidance.
