A key element of workplace safety is respiratory protection, especially in sectors where employees are exposed to hazardous airborne particles. Wearing the right respiratory protection equipment (RPE) is essential to preventing major respiratory illnesses associated with everything from dust in construction to hazardous substances in manufacturing. The most significant regulations, classifications, and applications of respiratory […]
Safety footwear is essential for preventing workplace foot injuries and complying with UK regulations. Understanding the legal obligations, safety ratings, and industry-specific applications helps companies to provide the right level of safety to their employees. This guide covers all you need to know about selecting, using, and maintaining safety footwear. Introduction to Safety Footwear Safety footwear […]
EN ISO 20471 is the UK and EU standard for high visibility clothing used in high-risk environments. It sets out requirements for fluorescent colours, reflective strips, and the surface area that must be visible. There are three protection classes based on risk level: Class 1 (lowest), Class 2 (moderate), and Class 3 (highest). All garments […]
In the realm of workplace health & safety, protecting workers’ hands from cuts and lacerations is paramount. Cut resistant gloves stand as a frontline defence, offering vital protection to those working with sharp objects or in hazardous environments. Understanding the nuances of cut resistant glove ratings and levels, safety specifications, standards, and testing procedures associated […]
In many different industries, hi vis clothing is an essential part of personal protection equipment (PPE). Whether you work on a building site, in logistics, or in engineering, high visibility clothing makes you more visible in every situation and protects you from risks like moving vehicles and heavy machinery in poor light. In this article, […]
Overalls and coveralls provide protection, comfort, and utility in a wide range of industries. Whether you’re working on a construction site, in a factory or workshop, or working outside in adverse weather, choosing the right overalls or coveralls can make a big difference in safety and productivity. This article will cover everything you need to know, including […]
Personal Protective Equipment generally goes by the acronym: PPE. It is the equipment that protects its users from health or safety risks. Most specifically, risks you would find in the workplace. The Ultimate Guide to PPE includes an explanation of all relevant PPE regulations, best practice advice for health and safety officers or those charged […]
In a noisy work environment, having the correct PPE to protect your hearing is essential. There are several consequences if you do not have the right equipment: Tinnitus, Acoustic Trauma, Temporary Hearing Loss, Industrial/Occupational Deafness, even Complete Hearing Loss How do you choose the right hearing protection PPE for your particular industry? Types of Hearing […]
Date: 6th March 2019
There are several types of gloves available to purchase for a reason. You should avoid making the mistake of assuming that any type of glove can be used for any type of work you undertake, as this can bring its own set of dangers. That's why gloves are rated into three separate categories and all […]
Here is everything you need to know about dust mask ratings – the same safety standards are used for respirator ratings and the specifications of face masks. After reading, you should know the different dust mask protection levels and the rating system used in respiratory PPE before you choose a dust mask for work. You […]
As of January 2017, Build UK, who represents some of the UK’s biggest contractors and trade associations, has mandated hard hat colour codes. Excepting Network Rail workers, whose sites only permit white and blue safety helmets, all other construction sites – new and existing – will be expected to change their helmet colours according to […]
Style and colour may be your first thoughts when choosing new safety boots or shoes, but you should be more concerned about the Safety ratings of your chosen footwear. The fit, suitability for your job and the protection standards (aka: Safety Boot Ratings) should be at the forefront of your mind. This is a guide […]
How long does PPE last? Well, it may not be as long as you think – there is a recommended lifetime for every piece of safety equipment but it is determined under assumption of best practice and ideal conditions. Ideally, work boots would last 6-12 months on the job; hard hats and ear defenders should […]
Last year we reported on the findings of a BSIF report looking into un-registered retailers selling PPE. Today, the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has released the results of its latest independent tests (2025), and the findings are nothing short of alarming. In their comprehensive assessment of personal protective equipment (PPE) procured from non-registered suppliers […]
Worker safety is essential in industries where there are hazardous airborne particles, chemicals, or gases. Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is crucial for protecting workers from respiratory diseases and long-term health issues. In the United Kingdom, various rules provide clear principles that ensure that workers are adequately protected. This guide gives a full review of the […]
Maintaining proper respiratory protection is essential to the health and safety of workers in environments where hazardous substances are present. A PPE compliance audit ensures that the right respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is being used, that it’s effectively maintained, and that your business is compliant with UK regulations. This guide walks you through the steps […]
Choosing the appropriate Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) for your sector is vital for protecting workers from harmful dusts, gases, and fumes. Different industries pose unique risks, and understanding what kind of protection is required is key. In this article, we’ll explain how to choose appropriate respiratory equipment for different jobs, to make sure your workforce remains safe and […]
Ensuring that your lungs are properly protected at work is critical, especially if you work in an industry where airborne hazards are widespread. Dusts, fumes, gases, and vapours can all have major health consequences if inhaled over time. This is why Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) is so essential in many workplaces. In this guide, we’ll cover […]
The safety footwear requirements were considerably updated in 2022, most notably in the EN ISO 20345:2022 and EN ISO 20347:2022 standards. These changes reflect major advances in ensuring worker safety across a variety of sectors. Understanding these developments is critical for employers, organisations, and individuals responsible for workplace safety to maintain compliance and protect employees’ […]
If you are deciding between different types of safety boots or shoes, you might be choosing between composite and steel toe cap options. Here are the differences explained in one short post and some advice on which type is right for you, your budget and your job role. The Difference Between Composite And Steel Toe […]
Safety footwear is crucial for protecting workers from a variety of hazards at work. Whether you work in construction, healthcare, or food processing, wearing proper footwear can significantly reduce your risk of injury. This article covers the various kinds of safety footwear, their materials, and uses across industries, along with a brief history of safety […]
Safety footwear is crucial for protecting workers from injuries at work, particularly in high-risk industries such as construction, engineering, and manufacturing. In the UK, strict safety standards exist to ensure footwear meets specific criteria for protection. This article covers the key standards and safety ratings that determine whether footwear is safe to wear in the workplace and […]
Each year, thousands of work-related foot injuries could be avoided with adequate safety equipment. The appropriate protective footwear is essential for anybody working in construction, engineering, logistics, or food service. In this article, we’ll look at the most widespread workplace foot injuries, how protective clothing reduces these risks, and why complying to safety regulations is […]
A PPE compliance audit for safety footwear is a must to ensure that all safety shoes, boots, trainers, and other protective footwear on site comply with the relevant regulations and meet workplace safety standards. Because safety footwear is such a crucial part of personal protective equipment (PPE), carrying out regular audits helps uncover potential issues before they […]
To protect workers from risk at work, it is essential to train them on how to properly use personal protective equipment (PPE). Proper PPE use can reduce the risk of injury, prevent accidents, and ensure compliance to safety and health legislation. Here’s how to train your employees effectively: 1. Start with a Risk Assessment Before […]
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is essential for protecting workers from risks in a variety of sectors. From construction to healthcare, choosing the correct PPE is vital for avoiding hazards, complying with regulations, and ensuring worker safety. Different sectors present unique challenges, and it’s essential the PPE you choose is suited to the particular risks in each […]
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is crucial for maintaining the health and safety of workers in all kinds of industries. Whether you work in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, or any other industry that deals with hazardous materials or conditions, performing regular PPE compliance audits is essential for making certain your staff is completely protected and that the […]
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) management might seem to be a low priority for small businesses, but it is essential for worker safety. Understanding your PPE responsibilities is crucial whether you are a sole trader, have less than ten employees, or run a business with up to 50 employees. In construction, engineering workshops, and similar industries, common […]
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for protecting workers from potential hazards at work. PPE has the potential to stop diseases, injuries, and even deaths when used properly. HSE reported that in the year 2022/23 there were a staggering 561,000 non-fatal injuries in the UK workplace. This article looks at case studies from a variety […]
Protecting workers from job-related hazards requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). But PPE is only useful if it is kept and stored correctly. Maintaining the intended level of protection and prolonging the life of PPE require regular inspections, cleaning, and proper storage procedures. We’ll go over best practices for PPE storage and maintenance in […]
Choosing the right supplier for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is crucial for ensuring worker safety, complying with regulations, and successfully managing costs. Whether you’re a small or large organisation, your supplier has a responsibility to ensure that your personal protective equipment is compliant, reliable, and cost-effective. It’s tempting to go for the cheap option you […]
A recent survey found that nearly one in four construction workers in the UK may be exposed to asbestos, which places them at a higher risk of contracting terminal illnesses later in life, despite the fact that asbestos has been banned since 1999. The survey’s findings plus the fact that there are potentially half a […]
A hi vis vest is among the most widely used items of personal protective equipment (PPE) in a variety of industries, including construction, engineering, and logistics. Their lightweight design and versatility make them ideal for improving visibility and ensuring worker safety in a number of environments. Hi vis vests, ranging from standard to executive styles, are essential […]
Wearing the right clothing can make a significant difference in both comfort and safety when working in warm environments. Hi vis t-shirts and polo shirts are a great choice for workers who need to stay cool while remaining visible on the job. Whether in construction, logistics, or engineering, these lightweight garments keep workers visible and […]
In many industries, such as construction, engineering, and logistics, staying visible and protected is a top priority. However, workers don’t always need full jackets, especially in moderate climates or when working indoors. This is where hi vis bodywarmers and gilets come in. These garments provide lightweight protection and warmth without the bulk of a full […]
Visibility is essential when it comes to keeping workers safe. Hi vis hoodies provide the ideal balance of comfort, warmth, and safety, making them an essential part of modern workwear in a variety of sectors. Not only does a hi vis hoodie keep the wearer visible in environments with poor lighting, but they offer an […]
The right class of hi vis clothing needs to be selected by employers to ensure worker safety in hazardous environments. Hi vis clothing falls into three classes within the EN ISO 20471 standard based on the level of visibility they offer, which depends on the amount of fluorescent fabric and reflective tape on the garment. […]
High visibility (Hi Vis) coveralls are a key element of personal protective equipment (PPE) in many industries where workers are exposed to low-light or high-risk environments. Whilst still performing the role of basic coveralls, they make workers more visible to others, reducing the likelihood of accidents such as vehicle strike. This article discusses the significance […]
As we approach the 50th anniversary of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA) on 31st July 2024, it is a good time to reflect on the profound impact this landmark legislation has had on the UK workforce. Introduced at a time when workplace safety was far from guaranteed, the HSWA has transformed […]
Eye safety is paramount for jobs where materials, dusts, fluids or gases could be ejected into the air. Over 90% of cases of eye injuries reported could have been prevented with protective glasses. Over 2,000 people suffer each year with an eye injury. If your workplace has deemed that protective goggles or safety glasses are […]
The invention of Anti-vibration gloves were a gift from the PPE Gods for workers who use automatic equipment such as pneumatic tools, rivet guns, jackhammers, etc. As more and more tools became powered, there were more and more vibration injuries reported in the workplace. Many brands offer different protection for the person who is wearing […]
The frequency of replacing your hi vis clothing is not determined by a period of time, but how it is used and cared for. It doesn’t have a shelf-life as such unless it falls under an old hi vis clothing standard. You’ve taken the time to research and find the right type of hi vis […]
Head injuries are often serious and all too often life threatening. It is important, when working in hazardous industries, you and your employees are protected with some form of head protection such as a Hard Hat or a Bump Cap. Hard Hats are very different pieces of PPE from Bump Caps and they both perform […]
Date: 8th February 2024
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has issued a cautionary alert to industry and tradesmen following the extensive failure of personal protective equipment (PPE) from non-member entities in their safety assessments. In a comprehensive evaluation of safety performance, the BSIF tested 123 products acquired from non-member sources between December 2022 and December 2023. Tests were […]
The week 5th Feb – 11th Feb, 2022 marks Tinnitus Week in the UK. Most of us have left a nightclub or concert with a dull ringing in our ears that usually disappears before the hangover. Or maybe you’ve had a particularly loud day at work with hammers banging and grinders grinding and you notice […]
Personal Protective Equipment is designed to be a last resort when all other safety measures have been put in place. All PPE provides some level of protection, and some is required by law whilst others just provide additional protection. So what PPE do you need to work on a construction site safely? There are many […]
Construction workers, landscapers, forestry workers, warehouse operatives, engineers and even road-workers need different types of gloves due to the safety elements featured in each one. This is especially important for rig workers as the work onboard requires a number of areas to be covered. It is possible that rigger gloves are not the best option […]
Safety boots are a necessity for ensuring your feet are as protected as possible while you carry out your work duties. There are a number of options on the market but it is important you buy work safety boots that are comfortable and suit the roles you carry out. Perhaps steel toe capped boots are […]
Rigger boots are an attractive option for those who work on a construction site. They are a slip-on safety boot between a lace-up and a wellington. Compared to traditional work boots they have a looser fit and their added waterproofing makes them an appealing choice. However, are riggers safety boots banned from being worn on […]
In this article you will learn: Different types of ppe signage and symbols; Why safety symbols were developed; What safety symbols are; PPE symbols and their meanings; The different colours of safety symbols; How to know what PPE to wear in specific workplaces. Symbols are quite literally everywhere. It’s universally recognised that man and woman […]
