If an employee provides their own protective devices, who is responsible for maintaining this equipment?

In a situation where an employee uses their own protective devices, the employer retains responsibility for ensuring that the equipment is properly maintained and in good working condition. This obligation arises from the employer's duty to provide a safe working environment, as stipulated by OSHA regulations and other safety standards that mandate employers to take all necessary precautions to protect their workers.

While employees may supply their own gear, the responsibility for maintenance lies with the employer because they must ensure that all safety equipment, regardless of its source, conforms to applicable health and safety standards. If the equipment fails to perform as intended, it could lead to accidents or injuries, which the employer would ultimately be liable for under workplace safety laws.

Hence, even when employees bring their own protective devices, the employer has a legal and ethical obligation to oversee the maintenance and verify that the equipment is safe for use.