What is the first step in setting up a work area?

• A. Wear proper PPE (traffic vests, hard hat).
• B. Inspect the surrounding neighborhood.
• C. Start with the largest equipment first.
• D. Call a supervisor to confirm.

Answer: (A)

Safety starts with you being protected. The first step in setting up a work area is to put on the proper PPE. A hard hat shields your head from falling objects, a high-visibility vest makes you easy to spot, and gloves and eye protection guard against common hazards you’ll encounter on the job. When you’re properly equipped, you can safely assess the site, establish boundaries, and proceed with the remaining setup tasks. Other steps like surveying the surroundings or checking in with a supervisor are important, but they come after you’ve donned the PPE and ensured you’re protected for the work ahead. Starting with the largest equipment first isn’t a safety-first approach, since you need personal protection in place before any setup or movement.