Workshop wellbeing 49 www.aftermarketonline.net FEBRUARY 2025 The BSIF is urging buyers and wearers of PPE to review their stock and replace old and damaged items, after a member survey showed outdated and poorly maintained PPE is in use across UK workplaces. The survey of BSIF members, made up of manufacturers and distributors of PPE who frequently visit workplaces across the UK, highlighted the prevalence of substandard products in use in Britain’s workplaces. BSIF said the findings emphasise the urgent need for employers and workers to prioritise PPE evaluation and renewal as they prepare for the year ahead. The survey highlights a worrying trend in the state of PPE and safety equipment across industries, BSIF said. Examples include: O Hi-Vis not so visible — many workers are using high-visibility clothing that is so dirty or worn that it no longer meets safety standards or functions as intended; O Damaged helmets — safety helmets with severe wear and tear are said to be a common sight in UK workplaces; O Ripped clothing — poorly maintained and ripped clothing are in regular use; O Defunct respiratory protection — members frequently came across examples of disposable respiratory protection that should have been replaced but was still in use. Other insights from the survey included respondents noting that buyers often prioritise cost over fit and performance, leading to the use of non-compliant products that compromise safety. Misuse and poor fit is another concern. Issues including workers wearing PPE incorrectly — such as helmets dangling loosely or gloves not being secured properly — pose significant risks to their effectiveness. Commenting on the findings of the survey, BSIF chief executive officer Alan Murray, said: “It’s not enough for PPE to simply meet basic standards — it must be maintained and fit for purpose at all times to ensure worker safety. “As one of the survey respondents highlighted the misconception that ‘any PPE is good enough’ is a dangerous mindset that leads to preventable injuries.” As 2025 gets underway, BSIF is calling on organisations to resolve to thoroughly review and refresh their PPE stock. Employers and safety professionals are urged to ensure their equipment is compliant, well-maintained, and fit for purpose. Only source PPE from responsible suppliers such as BSIF registered safety suppliers, who are committed to selling only certified PPE and safety products that perform to claims made. The BSIF will soon release its latest findings around non-compliant PPE and safety equipment and the federation will also be turning up the focus on the essential role of PPE in 2025 with its PPE Saves Lives campaign, which is to be launched in the spring. 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 PPE and safety products, through to test houses, certification bodies and specialist safety service providers. The federation also works closely with the Health and Safety Executive and Trading Standards, with which it has a primary authority partnership. BSIF is also the UK’s leading association for the PPE Regulation 2016/425 and provides guidance for PPE compliance, working closely with regulators. Visit www.bsif.co.uk for more information on how to improve PPE safety standards in your workshop. Staying safe and working smart Out with the old, in with the new… the British Safety Industry Federation is urging all businesses, including the automotive sector, to review personal protective equipment stock for the year ahead
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