What is the primary function of ANSI?

The primary function of ANSI, which stands for the American National Standards Institute, is indeed to set manufacturing standards for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) among other aspects. ANSI develops consensus standards through a voluntary process, focusing on improving safety and performance across all sectors, including construction. By establishing these standards, ANSI plays a crucial role in ensuring that PPE meets minimum safety requirements, which helps protect workers from various hazards they may encounter on the job.

This foundational role in standardization allows manufacturers to create and sell PPE that complies with recognized safety standards, ensuring that workers are adequately protected. The development of these standards is collaborative, involving various stakeholders, including industry representatives, government agencies, and safety professionals, which highlights the importance of collective input in creating effective safety measures. Understanding ANSI's role in this process emphasizes the importance of standardized equipment as a crucial aspect of overall workplace safety.