Depending on the job you're doing, personal protection equipment is either specified or a matter of common sense.

Hands: The National Safety Council reports that severe lacerations to the hand have been seen because a worker was not wearing gloves. Away from the workplace, it's up to you to determine when gloves are needed for a task. Have them ready before you start to carry boards or anything that is unusually shaped or could be sharp.

Eyes: Safety glasses protect your eyes when there is a possibility of flying particles or caustic liquid. They are specified for certain work on the job. At home, tasks as diverse as woodworking and weed eating require eye protection.

Feet: OSHA guidelines say safety shoes must be sturdy and have impact-resistant toes, instep protection and heat-resistant soles. Away from the job, skip the tennis shoes when carrying furniture or stacking heavy materials in a storage area. Hard-toed shoes are best.

Head: Use a hard hat in areas where one is required. That means anywhere something could fall from above or when you are doing residential construction.

Hearing protection: You know where it's needed at work. Away from the job, wear earplugs when you use loud equipment, run the lawn mower, or go to the stock car races.