Regulations, Rules and Standards

29 CFR 1910.132:

General requirements says that all PPE has to meet these minimum requirements: Provide adequate protection against the particular hazards for which they are designed. Be of safe design and construction for the work to be performed. Be reasonably comfortable when worn under the designated condition.

1910.132(a): 

Protective equipment, including personal protective equipment for eyes, face, head, and extremities, protective clothing, respiratory devices, and protective shields and barriers, shall be provided, used, and maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition wherever it is necessary by reason of hazards of processes or environment, chemical hazards, radiological hazards, or mechanical irritants encountered in a manner capable of causing injury or impairment in the function of any part of the body through absorption, inhalation or physical contact.