It is easy to assume that if products look like PPE and safety equipment and are marketed as such, they will provide the protection that's needed. However, mounting evidence shows that this is not always the case, and the use of ineffective products that put people at risk of injury, or worse, is on the rise. 

The simple solution is to ensure that your supplier is a member of the BSIF's Registered Safety Supplier Scheme (RSSS).

Last year, the BSIF tested over 160 products from non-RSSS member suppliers, assessing their advertised performance, labelling accuracy, and compliance with relevant standards. Alarmingly, only 10% (16 products) met full compliance requirements, while an overwhelming 90% (138 products) failed to meet the necessary criteria.

The PPE Regulations stipulates that all economic Operators involved in the supply of PPE have clear legal responsibilities and obligations. All BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers are independently audited to confirm compliance with the regulation and scheme’s requirements. Remember, by using a Registered Safety Supplier you can be sure you will only be supplied with genuine, appropriately approved product and you will receive sound advice without any attempt to mislead you. 

The Registered Safety Supplier Scheme is key to preventing non-compliant, fake and/or illegal product from being sold within the UK. There is little market surveillance conducted by government authorities and consequently the risk of non-compliant product being sold has increased. The BSIF through the RSSS have taken the lead in combatting the issues and the RSSS is the quality assurance initiative needed within the PPE supply sector.

Therefore, if you are a business or organisation in the UK that is buying PPE and safety equipment, the BSIF urges you to: 

1. CHECK your supplier is BSIF Registered. BSIF audited suppliers are compliant, competent and trustworthy.
2. SELECT appropriate, certified and approved products. Registered Safety Suppliers can support the product selection process through their competence, capability and knowledge.
3. PROTECT your people, your most precious asset, and help your business to thrive.

A Registered Safety Supplier Scheme member…

• Formally declares and commits to selling only Certified PPE and safety products that perform to claims made
• Submits their products to random independent scheme testing
• Commits to having their customer facing staff educated and accredited in the Safe Supply Course
• Maintains a company Quality Policy
• As a Federation member trades honestly and ethically

So whilst you’re looking at your PPE and safety product procurement options include the Registered Safety Supplier Scheme shield in your requirements, if a company displays this it means they take safety seriously, the products they sell meet with the PPE Regulations and they have knowledgeable staff who can advise you credibly on the products you require.

"Remember, anyone can sell safety, but you wouldn't buy safety from just anyone. Always specify the shield.”

For a full list of Registered Safety Suppliers, visit: www.registeredsafetysupplierscheme.co.uk

For more information, stop by the BSIF stand at HSM Live Scotland, or visit www.bsif.co.uk

PROPERLY SPECIFIED, well fitting, quality PPE which is capable of providing the necessary protection for a wearer is essential in a safety management process. PPE, we know, saves lives, it plays a critical role in safeguarding workers and it should always be carefully sourced and specified because hazards so very often cannot be eliminated through other measures. So, in simple terms, our message to the industry is consider the risks your workers face very carefully and give equal consideration to the selection of PPE, sourcing from capable and competent suppliers. 

Lives depend on PPE!

Work and workplaces can be very demanding and high performing PPE, that is adequate for the hazard and suitable for the wearer, does more than just protect – it enables people to work safely and comfortably. Beyond passive protection good PPE improves comfort, confidence, morale and productivity. Taking care over PPE selection and involving the workforce in decisions shows them that you care for their needs and that will pay dividends, time and time again.

The point of PPE is that it protects when risks still exist. Remember PPE saves heads, eyes, faces, our hearing, our lungs our hands, feet and bodies. PPE when sourced carefully keeps people well, and able to perform at their best.

The pandemic highlighted the vast amount of poor and dangerous PPE that is available in the market. This situation, however, is something that has been known to BSIF for many years and it has been our mission to get bad product out of the supply chain. We, as the trade bode for the safety industry, continue to spend fortunes on market surveillance through the Registered Safety Supplier Scheme, when that of course should be done by the regulators. 

PPE is a highly regulated product category, why? The answer is simple, lives can literally depend on it. its’ sale is controlled under Personal Protective Equipment Regulation 2016/425 as incorporated into UK law. Is it a good, fit-for-purpose regulation? It is, absolutely. Is it properly enforced by regulators? It is not, absolutely not!

Why not? That is a good question seeing as the products are safety critical and lives depend on it. The answer to why not is multi-layered. The dual regulators are the HSE and Trading Standards, HSE for PPE used at work and Trading Standards for when PPE is offered for sale. PPE has to be offered for sale before it can ever be used at work so something of a confusing start. Then we know the challenge of resources within the public services, where there really isn’t much around. The picture is further complicated by the fact that all Trading Standards services are provided by the hundreds of local authorities and councils. Each local authority has their own individual challenges and consequently different priorities, with no national approach to product safety. So, while resource at Trading Standards is undoubtedly an issue, reform of the structure is also vital.

However, with all that said perhaps the greatest obstacle to lack of enforcement of PPE safety in recent years has been the explosion of product sold through online market-places (OMPs) and the barely believable fact that there was no legal framework on which regulatory responsibilities and obligations could be enforced. OMPs are essentially platforms where third party sellers are hosted by well known names such as Amazon, TEMU, Shein and other digital shops like Facebook and TikTok who could not previously be held responsible as “sellers” in law. This situation is in the process of changing and we are at least now on the right road, with a legal framework which of course we will in the future need enforced. On July 21 2025 the Product Regulation and Metrology Bill received Royal Assent and has become an Act of Parliament. Credit where it is due, the civil servants within the Department for Business and Trade have done a fantastic job of navigating this through the parliamentary process. The Act itself has a limited number of expressed priorities but of course front and centre is the power to enforce responsibilities on OMPs. Policy leads at the Department for Business and Trade are currently working up proposals for ministerial approval on the application of powers through secondary legislation. BSIF are already engaged in the process and will be participating in all the relevant consultations in the coming weeks and months. So, while the Act being passed is a milestone there is still work to be done and as I said earlier enforcement needs to happen. We will continue our market surveillance and reporting of unsafe, dangerous and non-compliant PPE to the authorities but for now at least one significant barrier to lack of enforcement has been removed. 

The scale of the problem is really quite enormous and is putting unsuspecting wearers at risk. Work done through the BSIF’s Registered Safety Supplier Scheme in 2024 tested 96 different items of PPE assessed against performance and regulatory requirements and only 10% passed. A full 90% failed in one or more key area with certain product categories showing a 100% failure rate. These categories included head protection, fall protection and products to protect the face and eyes. All of these are areas where the consequences of product failure could be fatal. In many cases despite reporting, these products continued to be on sale, exposing workers to unacceptable risk.

On the other hand, with products sourced from suppliers monitored and assessed under the Registered Safety Supplier Scheme there was a 12% failure rate out of 297 items of PPE. While any failure represents a risk, corrective action was immediately applied and wearers safety assured. 

So, while the legal framework may be moving with more powers of enforcement we continue to call on specifiers and those purchasing PPE to do so from established competent and capable suppliers who display the Registered Safety Supplier Shield. It is vitally important that when it comes to acquiring PPE you Check the supplier is BSIF registered, Select suitable and adequate quality PPE that you know will perform when it matters and you are then able to Protect your work force, those that have to wear the PPE. To find a BSIF registered supplier near you simply visit Suppliers - RSSS

Making good decisions when selecting PPE is vital – remember “PPE Saves Lives”.

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

THE HEALTH and Safety Executive (HSE) held their AGM at the end of July and having attended the meeting I find myself now reflecting on the way that HSE appears to have evolved in recent years and what that may mean to occupational safety in this country.

The HSE is an internationally respected regulator and through informing and educating the market on risks and their management, has in the past, been seen not just as policing occupational safety and health but also as an awareness generator and a supportive and guiding force for good. The economic climate and the situation around declining resources provided to the HSE have been much discussed and it does feel like that has been the backdrop to the orientation of HSE progressively adjusting their activities. 

A regulator is responsible for laying out ‘what’ has to be done and enforcing their rules and regulations. However, HSE have over the years in addition to awareness activities, also been of significant assistance in providing guidance on ‘how’ things should be done. Now it appears, to me at least, that HSE are very much moving away from the ‘how’ and concentrating on the ‘what’ has to be done and its’ enforcement. That, I think, is just the reality that we now face.

Historically, HSE would produce Regulation, often supported by Approved Codes of Practice (ACoPs) and sometimes Guidance to help duty holders comply, but it feels like a long time since we have had updated or refreshed AcoPs or Guidance. That perhaps is not surprising in that many of the issues go back a long time, are well understood and there is little new or novel that HSE could bring, beyond perhaps continuing awareness and of course more assertive enforcement!

However, although many issues are long standing and should be well understood it does not change the fact that HSE’ published data on Health and Safety at work have been static over the last decade illustrating that safety messages are not getting through – just a couple of examples….. in 2023/24 there were half a million workers suffering from work-related muscular skeletal disorders (MSD) ten years ago the figure was the same – the number of non-fatal injuries sustained by workers in 2024 was .6 million and yes you guessed it, ten years ago it was the same!

Somehow things need to improve and if HSE are not being proactive on the traditional risks and hazards what mechanisms can step into that void and make a difference. BSIF and other bodies such as IOSH and BOHS continue to support duty holders and the market, but I believe the structure of local/regional safety groups, sharing good practice and learning from the experiences of others will become of increasing importance in the years to come, especially in getting messages to SME’s and micro businesses.

Two shining examples of this type of collaboration come to mind. We have Safety Groups UK the umbrella organisation for many regional safety groups who meet regularly in their own areas and run safety related events to share information, concerns and solutions.

We also have the Working Well Together group, originally constituted by HSE to support SME safety in construction.

Both Safety Groups and the Working Well Together Groups are run by volunteers for the greater good of occupational safety in their regions or sectors. These groups are and will become an even more important part of the Occupational Safety and Health ecosystem and I would ask all the HSM readers to have a look at the two website links and become involved wherever you can. These groups have in the past enjoyed some level of back-up from the HSE but no longer, yet they  provide a valuable network to promote occupational safety and health and deserve as much support as they can get.  

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

Fall protection equipment plays a crucial role in safeguarding workers from the risks associated with working at height, which remains one of the leading causes of workplace fatalities and injuries in the UK. The use of proper fall protection systems, combined with rigorous training and adherence to safety standards, is essential in mitigating these dangers.

The introduction of the new British Standard, BS 8681, marks a significant step forward in this area. Officially titled "BS 8681 - Personal fall protection equipment – Anchor systems – Specification for provider competence", this Standard sets out clear guidelines for the industry, emphasising competence and safety across all aspects of fall protection systems. By focusing on the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience required at every stage of fall protection—from design to installation, inspection, and training – BS 8681 aims to enhance safety and reduce the high number of accidents and fatalities associated with working at height.

A complement to BS 7883

BS 8681 has been designed to work in tandem with the existing BS 7883 standard, which focuses on the technical aspects of designing, installing, and inspecting personal fall protection anchor systems. While BS 7883 addresses the hardware and structural integrity of these systems, BS 8681 broadens the focus to include the competence of all professionals involved.

This new Standard emphasises that every person in the "safety chain"—from system designers to installers, inspectors, and trainers—must have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to ensure that fall protection systems are safe and effective.

Competence and responsibility

One of the key objectives of BS 8681 is to raise the competence levels across the industry. The Standard aims to ensure that those involved in the design, installation, and inspection of fall protection systems are thoroughly qualified. 

For instance, System Designers, whose role was first introduced in BS 7883, must ensure that the systems they design are not only compliant with safety standards but also fit for purpose throughout their operational life. This includes considering factors such as safe construction, use, rescue, and inspection.

BSIF HSG member Elizabeth Rickard of Spring Structural Ltd comments: "BS 8681 is a promising step forward in addressing industry challenges, particularly in the realm of personal fall protection systems. Generally, it takes two years to train a System Designer to simply provide the pertinent information. 

"Given my experience in training system designers over that two-year period, BS 8681 could significantly streamline onboarding by offering a clearer framework for competence. It also has the potential to improve collaboration with other stakeholders by establishing shared expectations. Furthermore, by ensuring that upstream information is more reliable and standardised, it can help reduce both rework and risk throughout the design and implementation process."

BSIF HSG member Harvey Dun of Time Consulting adds: "BS 8681 is a good start to assist in setting the benchmark of competency for people involved in the fall protection industry. 

Dun explains: "The Standard provides the purchasers of products and services, often referred to as the duty holder, with guidance check lists to confirm the provider they engage is suitably competent. These checklists may be adopted by Safety Schemes in procurement (SSIP) when assessing those providers operating in the fall protection industry."

Manufacturing and testing

Manufacturers also play a crucial role under BS 8681. The Standard provides clear guidelines on the necessary steps to ensure that anchor devices and other components meet stringent safety requirements. This involves rigorous testing, certification, and documentation to guarantee that these products can withstand the demands of real-world use in high-risk environments.

Training and qualifications

Training and competency are central themes in BS 8681. The Standard supports the development of qualifications, such as the Level 3 apprenticeship and NVQ Level 3 for permanent fall arrest technicians, which is part of a broader effort to professionalise the industry. This initiative, driven by BSIF HSG, aims to close the skills gap and ensure that all workers in the fall protection industry are equipped with the necessary knowledge and experience to perform their roles effectively.

BSIF HSG member, John Hynes of Autumnal Services Ltd, comments: "Formal, sector-specific qualifications, such as the NVQ Level-3 for installers, should raise the quality of installers and inspectors.  And the introduction of BS8681 will make it clear to Duty Holders and others that there are minimum acceptable competency levels."

Inspection and auditing

BS 8681 emphasises the importance of thorough inspection and auditing processes to maintain the integrity of fall protection systems. Inspectors must be highly skilled and knowledgeable, capable of identifying potential hazards that could compromise safety. Regular audits, both internal and external, are recommended to ensure ongoing compliance with the Standard, thereby ensuring that systems remain safe throughout their operational life.

A positive impact on the industry

The introduction of BS 8681 is expected to have a profoundly positive impact on the fall protection industry. By setting higher standards for competence and safety, it aims to drive a cultural shift towards greater accountability and professionalism. Duty holders can now have greater confidence that they are working with competent professionals who can deliver safe, compliant, and effective fall protection systems. 

BSIF HSG member Ben Haughton of Ocean Technical Safety Services Ltd comments: "The fall protection industry is entering a new era; with the publication of BS 8681and the support of BSIF, professional competency standards within the industry are going to be raised and in turn, greatly improve worker safety."

Hynes adds: "There will be a period where these new expectations and requirements are a challenge to our sector, but in the long term, they are completely reasonable and readily achievable, and they should lead to a significant improvement in the quality of design, installation and record keeping we see for fall protection systems."

Dun concludes: "My message to the companies and people who procure installation, inspection and consultancy services is to use BS8681 as part of the tools available in their due diligence process of selecting competent contractors."

To view the BSIF's overview of BS 7883, designed to help the understanding of best practice for those designing, installing, maintaining and inspecting anchor devices and systems, visit: www.bsif-heightsafetygroup.org

The BSIF (HSG) has produced a webinar that brings together industry experts to discuss the requirements of providers within the industry. The webinar is available via the following link:- BS 8681:2024 Personal fall protection equipment – BSIF HSG Webinar – BSIF Height Safety Group.

For more information: https://www.bsif-heightsafetygroup.org/

This standard ensures that professionals designing, installing, and inspecting fall protection systems meet the highest safety standards, thereby reducing risks and improving workplace safety.

The importance of BS8681:2024

BS8681:2024 is a comprehensive guide to best practices in fall protection, encompassing areas such as:

• Equipment selection and installation – Ensuring the proper use of fall protection systems to prevent accidents.
• Training and competency requirements – Defining the necessary skills and qualifications for individuals working within the field.
• Inspection and maintenance protocols – Establishing clear guidelines for the routine assessment of equipment integrity.

By implementing this standard, the industry has started on the journey to raise the level of professionalism, competence and accountability, ensuring that all fall protection systems adhere to stringent safety regulations.

Collaboration: Driving progress in fall protection training

The introduction of BS8681:2024 has been supported through a strategic partnership lead by BSIF who have ensured that extensive collaboration with organisations such as 8point8 Training, Kee Safety, Hydrajaws, SFS and other key industry personnel. These organisations have combined their expertise to develop industry leading training programs that meet industry requirements, and competency frameworks with the new standard, ensuring a seamless transition for organisations adopting BS8681:2024.

Key contributions of collaborating organisations

• BSIF (British Safety Industry Federation) – acting as the trade association for PPE and Safety Products in the UK, aims to uphold safety standards and encourage compliance among fall protection professionals.
• 8point8 Training – Providing specialised training programs tailored to the latest standards, ensuring industry professionals have access to expert-led education that align to both apprenticeship and commercial training opportunities.
• Smart Awards – In collaboration with industry Smart Awards acting as the Awarding Organisation for industry has developing both the NVQ and apprenticeship end-point assessments to align with current industry needs.
• Kee Safety – Offering innovative safety solutions that complement the new standard, helping companies design safer working environments.
• Hydrajaws – Contributing through advanced testing methods for fall protection anchor systems, ensuring equipment meets required safety benchmarks.
• SFS - Supporting the fall protection industry with safety systems and fixing solutions for working-at-height applications.

Their collective efforts are ensuring that work-at-height professionals receive the necessary training, tools, and industry knowledge to meet BS8681:2024 requirements and maintain a safer working environment. SFS, HydraJaws and Kee Safety have had a huge part to play in supporting 8point8 Training with the roll out of the training to the wider industry. 

Jonathan Seymour of SFS Group Fastening Technology Ltd explained: “Via our membership of the BSiF Height Safety Group, SFS was delighted to have the opportunity to support 8point8 Training Ltd with their delivery of the Level 3 Fall Protection Technician Apprenticeship and the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Accessing and Rigging.

This included training of key 8point8 Training personnel, sample SFS fall protection systems for the newly created Fall Protection Training area in Doncaster and, with the kind permission of their roofing OEM partners, the repurposing and supply of test roofing materials, such as metal decks and cladding sheets, to which apprentices are able to practice installation of roof top mounted fall protection systems”.

Graham Willmott, Kee Safety - risk management & standards director explained: “The opportunity to partner with 8Point8 and supply fall protection product, training and resources to facilitate 8Point8 to deliver the Level 3 Fall Protection Technician Apprenticeship and the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Accessing and Rigging, provides Kee Group and the industry with an opportunity to train fall protection installers & inspectors to the highest standards and achieve a professional qualification.”

Key 8point8 staff attended bespoke Kee Safety training sessions run by Simon Oates, Kee Safety fall protection training manager, to ensure the correct installation of our latest product, and this included our inspection App for recording inspection data. This ensures the apprentices can put into practice the required installation techniques to ensure product compliance and safety.”

Adrain Morgan of Hydrajaws commented: “Hydrajaws were thrilled to support 8point8 Training Ltd in the delivery of the Level 3 Fall Protection technician apprenticeship and the Level 3 NVQ Diploma in access and Rigging. It has been exciting to see the training facility take shape with the assistance of other supporting companies and this is a credit to David and his team.

Training was undertaken with key 8point8 staff to ensure the correct use of our latest equipment, and this included our App for recording test data. This ensures the apprentices can practice and learn present time techniques of testing.”

Celebrating milestones in fall protection training

In addition to the new standard and collaborative efforts, the industry is celebrating major accomplishments in fall protection training courses that have been developed to ensure site competence.

First completers in Level 3 NVQ in Access and Rigging - Fall Protection

The first two individuals employed by a major Group employer have successfully completed the Level 3 NVQ in Access and Rigging - Fall Protection, accredited by Smart Awards. This regulated qualification is critical for ensuring that professionals have the necessary skills to safely perform access and rigging tasks, further strengthening the industry’s workforce. 

Level 3 Fall Protection Technician Apprenticeship: A new era

The first learners are now reaching completion of the Level 3 Fall Protection Technician apprenticeship, signalling a new era of specialiaed fall protection expertise. This apprenticeship equips individuals with:

• Comprehensive training – Covering installation methods, anchor testing, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols.
• Hands-on experience – Providing practical assessments to ensure competency in real-world applications.
• Industry recognition – Establishing apprentices as qualified professionals in a rapidly evolving field.

Kee Safety one of the largest employers in the fall protection Industry have started to see the benefits of the apprenticeship programme with individuals now starting to complete their apprenticeships and enter their final assessments. Graham Willmott, Kee Safety - risk management and standards director explained: “Our Group recognises the importance of training and development of our fall protection technicians and inspectors. As soon as the apprenticeship program was available, we committed to the program and enrolled our delegates.”

David Ravensdale, head of training at 8point8 Training said: “These qualifications are raising the industry’s standards, ensuring that current and future professionals are fully equipped to handle the complexities of installing and maintaining fall protection systems.” 

The road ahead: Advancing fall protection

With BS8681:2024 now implemented, alongside industry collaboration and major training milestones, the fall protection sector is undergoing a transformative shift. These advancements emphasise worker safety, competency development, and adherence to best practices—critical factors in ensuring long-term success. 

Alan Murray of BSIF explained: “As more professionals achieve advanced qualifications, the industry will continue to evolve, innovate, and strengthen safety standards, creating a highly skilled workforce capable of delivering excellence in fall protection.”

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE Equipment (PPE) is sometimes 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.

Every day, millions of workers rely on PPE not just for protection but for peace of mind. When it’s well-designed, fit for purpose, correctly certified, and correctly fitted, PPE supports comfort, confidence, and a stronger safety culture.

The PPE Saves campaign urges organisations to take great care and involve their employees when selecting these safety critical products.

PPE Saves Lives!

PPE is far more than just a precaution—in some cases lives depend on it. While it's often difficult to prove when PPE has directly saved a life, there are consistently high levels of serious workplace accidents where the right protective equipment could have made a critical difference.

For example, incidents involving moving vehicles remain one of the leading causes of workplace deaths. Wearing high-visibility clothing can help workers stay seen and safe and reduce such incidents. Another serious hazard is asbestos exposure, which the WHO identifies as the top cause of work-related deaths globally. Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is crucial in protecting workers from inhaling these deadly fibres. 

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.

In a study of occupational use, the correct non-slip footwear reduced falls by 49% (BMJ).

• 90% of eye injuries could have been prevented by wearing the correct eye protection (Manchester Royal Eye Hospital).
• Over 1 million people attend A&E in England and Wales with a head injury annually (NICE). Many incidents could be prevented or their severity reduced with the right safety helmets.
• Noise-induced hearing loss is 100% preventable with properly fitted hearing protection (HSE).
• Hand injuries account for 25% of all non-fatal injuries in workplaces (HSE), yet these can be prevented with the right hand protection.

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, well-designed, fit for purpose, correctly certified, and correctly fitted, 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. 

Commenting on the launch of PPE Saves, BSIF CEO Alan Murray says: “PPE is vital for protecting lives across Britain every single day. But not all PPE performs well, and that’s a serious problem.

“PPE Saves is a campaign dedicated to making sure workers have access to suitable and reliable PPE because investing in quality products isn’t just about safety, it shows you value your people.

“There’s a wide range of innovative, comfortable, and sustainable PPE on the UK market. Yet poor-quality products are still in widespread use, compromising worker comfort and putting lives at risk. That’s why we’re raising awareness of what good PPE looks like, where to find it, and how to make sure it performs.” 

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

For support in specifying PPE, find out more about the BSIF’s Sourcing Safety course as well as the Duty Holder Membership Scheme, which includes access to a PPE Helpline, visit: bsif.co.uk/join-bsif/

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, prevented an injury, or improved your working conditions? Join the conversation and help raise awareness by sharing your story using #PPESaves.

Find out more about the campaign at BSIF's seminar at HSM Live Coventry, or visit www.bsif.com

ON THE 8 April 2025 BSIF launched the PPE Saves Campaign during the Health and Safety Event at the NEC, urging organisations to take greater care when selecting these safety-critical products and to involve the people who use them in every step of the process.

Why did we take this step? The answer is simple! Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is such a common sight that its’ importance can sometimes underestimated or undervalued, but when you think about it, it can mean the difference between life and death, safety and serious injury, long-term health and irreversible harm. While other safety controls are essential, PPE remains a vital line of defence when risks cannot be eliminated. We felt that it was time for a strong reminder of the vital role that PPE plays ensuring safety, health and the contribution that it can make to wearer’s feelings of wellbeing.

I have had the privilege to serve the BSIF membership for over 11 years and in that time we and the membership have made best endeavours to ensure that non-compliant and dangerous PPE is removed from the market and that workforces are provided with PPE that performs as it should so that it can save when called upon to do so. Let’s remember that every day, millions of workers rely on PPE not just for protection but for peace of mind. When it's well-designed, fit for purpose, appropriately certified, and correctly specified against the hazard and properly fitted, PPE supports comfort, confidence, a stronger safety culture and better outcomes for both the wearer and the business..

PPE Saves Lives!

PPE is far more than just a precaution, in some cases lives depend on it. While it's often difficult to prove when PPE has directly saved a life, there are consistently high levels of serious workplace accidents where the right protective equipment could have made a critical difference. 

For instance, incidents involving moving vehicles remain one of the leading causes of workplace deaths. Wearing the correct high-visibility clothing and other protective equipment can help workers stay seen and safe and reduce such incidents. Another serious hazard is asbestos exposure, which the WHO identifies as the top cause of work-related deaths globally. Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is crucial in protecting workers from inhaling these deadly fibres. In addition to asbestos and other breathable toxins the threat from Silica is becoming ever more recognised. . /,

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:

• Footwear: In a study of occupational use, the correct non-slip footwear reduced falls by 49% (BMJ).
• Eye protection: 90% of eye injuries could have been prevented by wearing the correct eye protection (Manchester Royal Eye Hospital).
• Head protection: Over 1 million people attend A&E in England and Wales with a head injury annually (NICE). While these figures include domestic injuries it is clear that many incidents could be prevented or their severity reduced with the right safety helmets and head protection.
• Hearing protection: Noise-induced hearing loss is 100% preventable with properly fitted hearing protection (HSE).
• Hand protection: Hand injuries account for 25% of all non-fatal injuries in workplaces (HSE), yet these can be prevented with the correct hand protection.

All of the above statistics refer to protection from direct harm but we should also reflect on the fact that PPE is worn over long shifts and must be comfortable for the wearer during that time 

The long-term impact of preventable injuries

We rarely consider how life-changing an injury can be until it happens. Beyond the pain of the injury itself, treatment and time off work, even minor injuries can have lasting consequences, while severe ones can alter everything. Let's consider some of the consequences of injuries that could have been prevented with proper PPE: 

Head Protection: Head and brain injuries can result in memory loss, cognitive difficulties, or permanent disabilities. Properly rated correctly worn helmets can mean the difference between walking away from an accident or facing lifelong consequences. 

Hearing Protection: Noise-induced hearing loss is permanent and progressive, often leading to social isolation and cognitive decline. Well performing correctly used hearing protection prevents irreversible damage. 

Eye Protection: A single eye injury can result in partial or total blindness. Protective eyewear protects against chemical splashes, flying debris. Correctly fitted eyewear prevents ingress damage and properly thought out selection of lenses will prevent damage from hazardous light exposure.

Foot Protection: Injuries such as fractures, burns, or punctures can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues. Non-slip, impact-resistant footwear reduces workplace falls and injuries. Comfort is vital across all PPE but perhaps most obvious in footwear (and protective clothing) as these items are often worn continuously through long work-shifts. Comfort and fit is vital for the wearer.

Respiratory Protection: Inhaling hazardous substances can lead to chronic lung diseases, impacting long-term health. Good fit for purpose respiratory protection, correctly fitted, minimises these risks. 

Hand and Skin Protection: Severe burns, chemical exposure, and deep lacerations can cause permanent damage, affecting daily activities and work performance. The right gloves and protective clothing safeguard against these hazards but again these must be well fitted, comfortable and must not impair the wearer in their duties.

Proper fall protection builds trust and reduces risk. Whether we are talking about permanent fall protection systems or PPE worn while working at height, The correct equipment properly specified and installed protects and reduces physical and mental strain, letting workers move confidently and work productively at height. 

When PPE performs, people can thrive Properly specified, well-fitting, 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. To achieve this, it's vital to involve the workforce in PPE selection, because those who wear it know best what works and what doesn’t.

So, through the PPE Saves Campaign BSIF are urging duty holders to look beyond the basics and specify PPE that can make a difference to wearer protection through specifying in conjunction with wearers PPE that is right for the hazard and suitable for their workforces.

Alan Murray is CEO of BSIF. For more information on PPE Saves please go to PPE Saves Campaign – BSIF

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We would like to congratulate all of the Commended, Highly Commended and Winners across our four categories:

Product Innovation Award PPE

Winner: Hunter Apparel Solutions – Flexguard

Highly Commended – Elten Safety Shoes – Lakers XXT BTG Boot

Highly Commended – Ansell UK Ltd – AlphaTec® 53-003

Commended – Univet SRL – 5X2 OTG eyewear

Commended – 3M – Peltor PIC-100

Product Innovation Award Safety Products (Non PPE)

Winner: Chemstore – ionGuard

Commended: Seton – EasyExtend Max Retractable Barrier

Commended: Eave – Eaveolution

Customer Service Award Winners

Guardsman Safety Solutions – Winner

The Caley Group – Winner

Lee Brothers – Highly Commended

Eave – Highly Commended

Zero Gravity Safety – Commended

Leo Workwear – Commended

Safety Solution Award

Winner – Hunter Apparel Solutions – Deconology

Highly Commended – EAVE – EAVEOLUTION

Highly Commended – Sundstrom SR – Sundstrom Safety Academy RPE Training

Commended – Staysafe PPE – PPE Laundry and Recycling

Commended – Total Safety UK – Two Tiered Monitoring

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

To facilitate this, BSIF have launched a free membership pilot. The Pilot seeks to deliver a structure by which BSIF can engage, embrace and support duty holders and safety professionals/ compliance managers in all things in PPE/Safety products.

There is no cost for Pilot membership, during the Pilot we will forge a form of membership that works for you, the BSIF and the wider safety industry within the UK.

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) is the Trade Association for the safety industry and acts as a leading voice for the sector. Set up in 1994 the Federation has some 400 members representing the complete supply chain including manufacturers, importers and distributors of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety products, through to test houses, certification bodies and specialist safety service providers.

The following give a brief overview of the Pilot membership benefits.

PPE Helpline

The BSIF Members PPE Helpline has been set up to reduce the complexities of PPE & Safety Products and to become the ’Go To’ for information not always easily obtainable in the market place.

The BSIF PPE Helpline is administered by PPE & Safety experts ready to assist with any questions relating to a variety of areas including product queries, standards information and help in understanding compliance of different products.

The pandemic shone a light on the need for people to be able to access free non commercially biased information. BSIF’s new helpline will cover areas such as:

• PPE Regulation 2016/425 
• Respiratory face fit testing 
• PPE EN standards 
• Product/documentation compliance checking 
• Height Safety 
• Non-compliance reporting 
• Membership enquiries/help

ACCESS TO BSIF MAILINGS

BSIF communicate information that keeps you ahead of the curve. Our mailers arrive into your inbox and cover:

• Government updates

• European PPE/Safety Information

• Standard changes

• BSIF member events

• Industry opportunities

BSIF INDUSTRY CAMPAIGNS

BSIF have produced campaigns to raise awareness of H&S issues. They highlight what can happen when personal safety is not taken into account. BSIF want to engage with Pilot members to develop new campaigns and posters to help people avoid hazards that can affect their life now and in the future.

BSIF SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS (SIG’s)

BSIF have a structure of PPE/ Safety product SIGs focusing on all relevant issues within the sector. Working directly with Pilot members we will be introducing a new user group to collaborate and support the existing. The user group will receive pertinent information from the SIG’s and feedback valuable opinion and industry experience.

BSIF QUALIFICATIONS

BSIF Pilot membership gives access to industry courses & qualifications at discounted rates. For example a new publicly recognised qualification for specifiers/buyers of PPE/Safety products. This qualification will help provide the tools needed to procure compliant & safe product. It includes:

• Legal requirements

• Standardization processes (EN/ISO

standards) for PPE/Safety Products

• Market Surveillance

• Safety In the Workplace

• PPE EN standards information

BSIF EVENTS

BSIF will run Pilot member events designed to inform, educate and network. Giving the opportunity to meet with BSIF Economic Operator members from within the supply chain and other HSEQ members & Duty Holder (Pilot) members.

BSi COMMITTEES:

BSIF are a nominating body for BSI. We can refer our members directly into BSI PH/Horizontal committees. These committees plug into CEN/ CENELEC/ISO working groups. If you want to get more involved in technical standards in PPE you can do so through a BSIF – Bsi referral.

If the BSIF Pilot Scheme sounds of interest to you please contact us by email to [email protected]