CEO's desk - March 25

I’M EXCITED to share that the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) will be introducing ‘PPE Saves’ at the Health & Safety Event 2025, a brand-new campaign highlighting the critical role of high-quality PPE in protecting people at work.

BSIF membership, as a lot of people now know, comprises companies dedicated to excellence in PPE production and supply, consistently exceeding minimum standards - many of whom feature regularly within this publication. 

The PPE Saves campaign aims to emphasise the critical role it plays in saving lives and ensuring safety while emphasising the value of investing in high-performing quality PPE – as is available from many of our members.

Why PPE Saves matters

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can sometimes be undervalued, yet it can mean the difference between life and death, safety and injury, long-term health and preventable harm. While other safety controls are essential, PPE remains a vital line of defence when risks cannot be eliminated.

Millions rely on PPE daily for protection, comfort, and well-being. Properly designed and fitted PPE enhances morale, promotes a culture of safety, and helps businesses maintain a healthy, engaged workforce. The PPE Saves campaign stresses the importance of investing in certified, fit for purpose quality PPE that meets safety standards and delivers real performance.

The statistics speak for themselves: PPE Saves Lives

PPE is not just a precaution—lives depend on it. Workplace safety statistics show its impact:

•   Falls from height caused 36% of workplace fatalities in 2023/24 (HSE). Proper fall protection can help prevent these tragedies.

•   Moving vehicle incidents remain a leading cause of workplace deaths (HSE). High-visibility clothing mitigates these risks.

•   Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of work-related deaths worldwide (WHO). Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is essential protection.

Despite these figures, PPE quality varies significantly. PPE Saves aims to change this by advocating for high-performance protective equipment.

Every part of the body matters

PPE not only saves lives but also saves heads, eyes, faces, hearing, lungs, hands, bodies, and feet. From head to toe, it prevents injuries, reduces severity, and improves recovery outcomes.

We rarely consider how life-changing an injury can be—until it happens. Even minor injuries can have lasting consequences, while severe ones can alter everything.

When PPE performs, people thrive

Properly specified, well-fitting, and high-quality PPE not only enhances safety but also allows workers to carry out their jobs effectively and remain in the industries they enjoy for longer. Work can be demanding but the right PPE does more than just protect—it enables people to work safely and comfortably. Beyond protection, great PPE improves comfort, confidence, and morale and even staff retention. 

When sourced responsibly, specified, fitted, and suitable PPE contributes to a safer, more productive workforce. PPE isn’t just about compliance—it’s about keeping people well, engaged, and performing at their best. 

Find out more at the Health & Safety Event 2025 

Come and visit us on Stand: 3/P30 at the Health & Safety Event 2025 being held from the 8-10 April at NEC, Birmingham, to find out more about how to source PPE that not only saves lives but helps workers and businesses to thrive. The BSIF team will be on hand throughout the event and would be delighted to discuss this important new campaign. 

The BSIF represents trusted suppliers dedicated to delivering protective equipment that meets the highest safety standards. These suppliers provide certified PPE designed for protection, comfort, and performance. Many of them will be present at the Health & Safety Event 2025, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore their offerings firsthand. 

Share Your PPE Story

The PPE Saves campaign highlights real-life impact. We invite workers, employers, and safety professionals to share their experiences. Has PPE saved your life or that of a colleague, prevented an injury, or improved your working conditions?

Join the conversation and help raise awareness by sharing your story on social media using #PPESaves.

For PPE that protects lives and helps workers and businesses to thrive, visit: www.registeredsafetysupplierscheme.co.uk

Alan Murray is chief executive of BSIF. For more information, visit www.bsif.co.uk