Beneath the surface

Health and Safety Matters's PPE survey once again elicited a strong response, offering insights from a wide array of professionals in various sectors. Most feedback came from the construction (23%) and manufacturing (22%) sectors, with a range of roles including health and safety managers (37%), officers (21%), and consultants (11%) contributing their views.

We asked a question to determine if respondents were users, purchasers, or specifiers of PPE, revealing that 24% are users, 19% specifiers, 10% purchasers, and 48% engaged in all these roles.

Respondents ranked 'performance to claimed standards' (165 points), 'functionality' (129 points), and 'comfort' (127 points) as top considerations when sourcing PPE, with 'image' (109 points) notably rising in priority. Cost factors like 'through life cost' (81 points) were less critical than performance, but still more significant than 'unit cost' (66 points). The survey also revealed a demand for PPE that caters to female-specific needs, emphasising that one size does not fit all.

Industry experts, such as Jonas Andersson from GORE-TEX, recognise a shift towards high-quality, long-lasting PPE that exceeds safety standards. This trend aligns with better safety for end-users, cost-effectiveness, and environmental benefits due to reduced replacement frequency.

Donald Gillespie from Unigloves commented that the respondents' emphasis on user experience was high on the list of priorities, noting the importance of functionality and comfort in PPE. He pointed out the crucial role of gloves in protecting against various hazards and the need for multiple performance features in PPE selection.

Survey results showed that quality products (204), capable staff (147), ethical concerns (142), and Registered Safety Supplier Scheme member (134) were top priorities for PPE suppliers. Alfonso Fernandez from MSA Safety and Gillespie both remarked on the preference for quality and informed support over price. Gillespie praised the value of BSIF membership for demonstrating safety and ethical standards.

Mark Dowling of Tower Supplies thought that RSSS should have ranked higher than fourth place, emphasising its comprehensive coverage of quality, training, and ethics. He suggested a need for more awareness of RSSS's value.

Main obstacles in sourcing PPE included availability, cost, and sizing, especially for women's PPE. Respondents voiced frustrations over limited options in female-specific PPE and the prevalence of fake PPE, suggesting reliance on RSSS members for reliable equipment.

For smoother procurement, respondents desired a broader range of PPE and better stock availability, along with improved communication from suppliers, although most were content with their current providers.

To understand PPE training practices, our survey asked if staff were trained in PPE use. Although some respondents indicated no training, this may not apply to their roles. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) emphasises the need for adequate PPE training. Common methods include induction sessions, refresher courses, and external trainers. For specific PPE like Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) and Fall Arrest Harnesses, specialised training is necessary.

Awareness of face-fit testing for RPE is growing, with 90% understanding its importance in 2024, up from 71% in 2023. Tracy Vernon of Shawcity Limited highlighted the successful outreach of the BSIF's 'Clean Air? Take Care!' campaign, stressing education on respiratory hazards and the necessity of face-fit testing.

Innovation in PPE was another focus, with RPE seen as the most advanced sector. David Head of Draeger Safety UK noted advancements in RPE, especially in fit and comfort post-COVID, with technologies like powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs) becoming more user-friendly. Developments in sustainable and female-specific PPE were also significant, as these meet diverse needs and support inclusivity in workplaces. For instance, Unigloves has innovated with biodegradable gloves and comfortable, sustainable industrial gloves.

In our survey we asked respondents what how they sourced information about PPE. Manufacturers/distributors were the top choice (35%), followed by industry magazines/websites (20%), and membership associations (14%). Oli Willson of GORE-TEX and Alfonso Fernandez highlighted the importance of clear communication and diverse educational resources from suppliers. Gillespie from Unigloves echoed this, noting their team's readiness to provide varied information to customers.

Regarding PPE standards and improvements, 38% of respondents saw room for enhancement in areas like arm protection, control of fake PPE, and more comfortable gear. The survey also revealed some confusion around the UKCA mark, with 24% unsure about its application in PPE, an issue compounded by recent government changes in marking rules, as noted by Nadia Haynes of RS Safety Solutions.

The survey's sustainability section revealed that 74% haven't seen green claims for PPE, and among the 26% who have, only 21% scrutinise these claims. Donald Gillespie of Unigloves highlighted their commitment to sustainable practices, while Ryan Plummer from RS Safety Solutions noted the challenge in verifying the environmental benefits of 'green' PPE claims.

Recycling old PPE is increasing, but more needs to be done to reduce landfill waste. Respondents were uncertain if sustainability would influence future PPE trends, but suggested using less plastic and packaging for longer-lasting products.

64% of respondents believed written instructions are necessary with PPE. Nik Rilatt of RS Safety Solutions proposed using QR codes on products or packaging to access digital instructions, reducing paper waste and maintaining safety.

Alan Murray, CEO of BSIF, appreciated the survey's insights for helping suppliers meet user needs, emphasising the importance of quality products and informed supplier choices. He observed a tendency towards digital alternatives for user instructions and the challenge of 'Greenwashing'. He also noted a lack of understanding about UKCA marking, urging the need for more training in PPE use to ensure safety.

The survey's comprehensive results offer a valuable perspective for both PPE users and suppliers, reflecting the current state of the industry and emerging trends. You can read the full article at www.hsmsearch.com/beneath-the-surface-PPE

Kelly Rose is editor of Health & Safety Matters magazine. For more information, visit www.hsmsearch.com