Campaign Update - Fit2Fit and Registered Safety Supplier Scheme

In excess of 40 people have now been accredited through the BSIF Fit2Fit scheme since its launch at the end of last year. As the first scheme of its type, generated by a close co-operation between the HSE and the BSIF, Fit2Fit provides a simple route for fit-testers of respiratory protection to demonstrate their competence as set out within HSE document 282/28 (the HSE's guidance on RPE fit testing).

Lots of support has been voiced for the scheme, which also benefits end users by making it easier to find a competent fit test service provider who has been independently assessed and can operate to the required standard required. Using a 'competent' RPE Fit Tester is a requirement of the law and it is essential that you are sure your tester can undertake this life saving task effectively.

The BSIF's campaign to eliminate counterfeit and illegal PPE took a positive step forward for the New Year when details of the companies that have already signed up to the Registered Safety Supplier Scheme were published.

This campaign is a two stage process of which the first is to identify companies that have made a commitment to only trade in products which comply with the PPE and other safety product regulations [having made physical checks on the authenticity of the CE marks with their suppliers] and to seek to avoid counterfeit products within their product offerings.

To be certain that safety products are genuine, without making extensive personal checks, obtain supplies from a Registered Safety Suppliers - just look for the shield.

The next stage of the campaign will be to ramp-up the BSIF's pursuit of products in the market that do not satisfy these requirements and engage with the public authorities to ensure that "unsafe" products are progressively taken out of the UK market.