A new British standard on inclusive PPE has been launched. But what exactly does this mean for PPE manufacturers and suppliers? I spoke with Natalie Wilson, technical consultant & procurement specialist in the field of workwear and uniforms. As chair of the committee that developed and finalized this standard, she knows better than anyone what the most important changes are. In this column, she explains how the workwear and PPE industry should prepare and what we can expect from similar standards in the future.
No “One Size Fits All”
The standard, published by BSI (British Standards Institution), provides formal guidance for the design, supply, and procurement of inclusive PPE. Its purpose is to inform buyers and end-users of PPE on how to communicate with their workforce to understand the various requirements that must be met. And this is long overdue, as PPE is still too often based on the idea that one size fits all.
The Standard will provide guidance and key considerations in the design, selection and provision of inclusive PPE and workwear.
“By combining feedback from end users with input from manufacturers, health and safety experts, standards bodies, and other specialists, we were able to gather a full spectrum of perspectives, ensuring we considered the challenges and needs of all stakeholders. Hearing directly about the problems faced across a wide range of sectors was essential to the development of this standard.
The British Standard has received support from several Members of Parliament and a rare Parliamentary launch of the standard is approved for November this year. This is expected to result in a review of associated legislation where amendments are required to update and clarify some of the more ambiguous terminologies relating to the provision of PPE, such as “adequate”provision. These reviews will be essential in ensuring implementation of the standard is non-negotiable for employers,” says Wilson.
Collaboration Is Key
Although the standard was created to serve end users, collaboration throughout the supply chain remains essential.
“Inclusive PPE means that there is no single solution for everyone. It may require offering a range of PPE items properly fitted for all users, ensuring equal levels of protection and ensuring comfort for all wearers. Designers and suppliers should therefore consult closely with their clients to understand future requirements and assess how their current offerings meet the needs of the workforce for whom they are designed. Conversely, suppliers of uniforms, workwear, and PPE can expect buyers to ask more questions about inclusivity going forward.”
Inclusive PPE on a Global Level
Wilson has also engaged with South African government departments that are implementing more inclusive practices and strategies to support female workers in traditionally male-dominated sectors. She now serves as European Coordinator for JTC/23 Working Group 6 on Inclusive PPE.
“The European Commission has identified 76 individual PPE standards that pose a high risk of injury or health issues due to the lack of inclusive considerations. These standards will be prioritised for review .In the long term, this will affect the development and revision of technical product standards and testing methods as part of a European review of inclusivity within current standards.
The positive impact of this standard begins with equal access to properly fitting PPE for a diverse workforce.It will help attract and retain talent, support people returning to work after long-term absence, and ultimately enable more people to work safely across all sectors. I am incredibly proud of the work carried out from concept to launch, and I look forward to seeing how the standard will be implemented in practice over the coming months.”
Natalie Wilson is Founder & Managing Director of award-winning technical consultancy business, Workwear Solutions International Ltd, and is a NAUMD Board member.
