Employers must ensure they provide fully compliant PPE for their workforce otherwise they will fall foul of safety legislation.
However, some products available in the UK that claim to have CE approval are not tested or certified as claimed. These products can put users at risk and expose businesses and individuals to prosecution for failing to protect staff.
Market surveillance shows it can be difficult to recognise the difference between responsible suppliers and less responsible ones. The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF), which works closely with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and Trading Standards, was established in the early 1990s and represents the complete PPE supply chain.
The mantra of the BSIF is to support all those keeping people safe and healthy at work whilst re-affirming the message that health and safety is a force for good. The BSIF have a Registered Safety Supplier Scheme (RSSS) which is designed to improve standards by ensuring members adhere to relevant regulations.
It seeks to improve the quality of product and the capability of suppliers, keeping users and buyers up to date, while promoting the merits of using RSSS members to source PPE and safety products.
Companies displaying the scheme’s logo have signed a binding declaration that the safety equipment they offer meets the appropriate standards, complies with PPE regulations and is appropriately CE marked. Delta Plus works closely with the BSIF and is fully supportive of the RSSS and the drive to improve PPE standards.