Working in the utility or oil and gas sector means facing some of the most dangerous environments out there. Every shift brings exposure to serious hazards: fire, high voltage, chemicals, and unpredictable weather. That’s why having the right PPE isn’t just a recommendation, it’s a necessity. We’ve built our legacy at NASCO Industries by outfitting workers who can’t afford to take shortcuts with their safety. This checklist is designed to help you stay compliant, stay safe, and stay focused on the job.

What is a PPE checklist?

A PPE checklist is a structured way to make sure workers have the right safety gear before starting a task. It supports compliance with OSHA and industry requirements and helps reduce workplace injuries. For field crews and safety supervisors, it serves as a routine tool to reinforce good habits, eliminate guesswork, and ensure no critical piece of protection is forgotten. A well-used checklist keeps teams alert and prepared, especially in fast-paced environments where hazards change quickly.

PPE needs in the utility and oil and gas industries

Workers in utilities and the energy sector deal with different types of risks. That’s why each industry calls for its combination of PPE. 

Here’s what you need to know.:

Utility workers: Utility crews face live electrical wires, extreme weather, and high-altitude tasks. To reduce risk, they wear arc-rated face protection, flame-resistant clothing, electrical-rated gloves, and insulated tools. In wet environments, lineman flame-resistant rain gear becomes essential. It protects against both moisture and fire hazards while offering comfort and flexibility on the job. Linemen often work under pressure during storms and outages, so having dependable rain gear is critical to staying safe while restoring power.

Oil and gas workers: In oil fields, refineries, and gas plants, workers operate near pressurized systems and flammable materials. Flame-resistant outerwear, chemical-resistant gloves, and safety goggles are just the beginning. Workers also need fire-retardant rain gear when working in rain, near spills, or in outdoor units exposed to unpredictable weather. Our industrial raincoats are designed to handle these exact conditions, combining fire resistance with protection against wind, rain, and chemical splash.

What PPE is required for a gas plant?

Gas plants demand full-body protection to handle heat, fire, and airborne risks. The minimum required PPE typically includes hard hats, flame-resistant coveralls or jackets, protective gloves, respiratory gear, and safety goggles. For outdoor work or exposure to wet processing areas, fire-retardant rain gear is often required as well. It shields workers from moisture while still meeting strict safety standards for fire resistance.

What PPE is needed for gas handling?

Gas handling comes with unique dangers like toxic fumes, burns, and high-pressure leaks. PPE must be worn correctly and consistently. Common gear includes flame-resistant clothing, chemical-resistant gloves, face shields, and respiratory masks. Workers may also need FR-rated rain gear if they’re operating in the open or working in unpredictable weather. Each item on the list plays a specific role in minimizing the chance of injury or long-term health issues.

PPE compliance checklist: utility and oil and gas crews

Here is a quick-reference checklist that outlines essential gear based on job type:
General PPE for all workers:

  • Hard hat
  • Safety glasses or goggles
  • Flame-resistant clothing
  • Fire retardant rain gear
  • Respiratory protection (if required)
  • Chemical-resistant gloves
  • Steel-toe or metatarsal boots
  • Hearing protection

For linemen:

  • Lineman flame-resistant rain gear
  • Arc-rated rubber gloves
  • Fall protection harness
  • Insulated hand tools

For oil and gas workers:

  • Anti-static FR coveralls or outerwear
  • Chemical splash protection
  • Confined space safety monitors
  • Portable gas detectors

This list is not just for compliance. It’s about making sure every person on site has the protection they need for their specific tasks and environments.

Selecting the right FR rain gear for your team

Standard rainwear won’t protect workers in high-risk environments. It may keep them dry, but it won’t stand up to flame, chemical exposure, or arc flash. That’s why every piece of rainwear we manufacture at NASCO meets or exceeds NFPA and ASTM standards. Our fire retardant rain gear and linemen gear are designed to handle the demands of harsh field conditions while keeping wearers dry, visible, and protected. Our industrial raincoats combine safety, comfort, and long-lasting durability to support teams that work long hours in the field.

We make all our gear in the USA, because we believe safety should never be outsourced. Every product we deliver is tested for the kind of performance real workers need—from storm repairs and gas line inspections to chemical handling and beyond.

Protecting people and staying compliant

Regulations exist for a reason. Lives are on the line every day. Having a solid PPE checklist, backed by gear that meets the highest safety standards, gives teams the confidence to do the work right.

At NASCO, we make gear for the people who keep America running. When safety can’t be optional, neither can the right protection. Don’t settle for gear that only does half the job. Discover our full line of fire-retardant rain gear and linemen gear, engineered to protect, built to last, and ready for whatever the day brings.