BSIF raises alert over substandard PPE

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) warns that not all PPE (personal protective equipment) provides adequate protection for wearers.

They ask PPE buyers to be watchful and not purchase substandard equipment. 

The BISF recommends buying from members of their register of safety supplies whose products are tested annually. In 387 recent product tests with members of the register, 14% did not reach acceptable standards. In a test of 127 products from non-members, 85% failed safety tests. Many of these substandard PPE items are still available to buy in the UK. 

Examples of why products that failed BSIF tests from last year include safety trainers that failed the midsole penetration test, safety harnesses sold without instructions and cut-resistant gloves that failed cut tests.  

Members of the BSIF supplier register have an obligation to address and rectify issues when products they want to sell fail safety tests. 

The chief executive of the BSIF, Alan Murray said:

“Our latest findings are very concerning and reinforce the importance of only using a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier when procuring PPE and safety equipment. The reality is that selling PPE and safety equipment comes with complex responsibilities.”

Alan Murray says that there is no law preventing any business from supplying PPE. With many suppliers selling inadequate PPE, buyers need assurance that they are purchasing PPE that provides good protection. He advises that those responsible for buying safety equipment and PPE should find a trusted, reliable and competent supplier that is a BSIF-registered safety supplier.