When we talk about personal protective equipment (PPE), we are talking about a worker’s last line of defence. If it fails, the worker is no longer protected from the hazards they face. This is why we say that all workers having PPE that fits their bodies isn’t just a matter of respect, it can quite literally be a matter of life and death.
By Melanie Bartlett and Lynsey Mann, GMB Union on 12 May 2026
For years, workers across several industries have relied on PPE which was never designed to fit them properly, putting both their comfort and their safety at risk. The CIOB’s #PPEThatFits campaign and a new British Standard are now driving a long-overdue shift towards inclusive protective equipment.
By CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building) and #PPEThatFits campaign on 08 May 2026
Personal protective equipment (PPE) came to widespread public consciousness when it became the final line of defence for not only those in care and health services, but also those in retail, education and visiting your vulnerable nan.
By Kirsteen Sullivan MP on 05 May 2026
Equality and inclusion are often discussed in workplaces as matters of culture or values. In health and safety, they are matters of life and death, health and dignity.
By Mike Robinson FCA, British Safety Council on 05 May 2026
Employers need to adopt the latest and most effective noise risk evaluation and management measures, or face rapidly-rising compensation claims for noise-induced hearing loss at work.
By Peter Wilson, Industrial Noise and Vibration Centre (INVC) on 06 February 2026
Workers often fail to wear hearing protection in noisy environments, but there are some simple steps employers can take to boost wear rates – and prevent devastating hearing damage.
By Dr Dalia Tsimpida, University of Southampton on 02 February 2026
Employers often spend significant sums attempting to reduce noise levels from plant and machinery without first considering lower cost, but often more effective approaches, such as properly maintaining mechanical parts like guards, fans and compressed air systems.
By Gill Cussons, director and consultant, Noise & Vibration Solutions UK Ltd on 02 February 2026
Wearable technology powered by AI analysis is now regularly deployed to prevent safety problems like musculoskeletal injuries and collisions between forklifts and pedestrians, and future developments mean the technology looks set to make it easier to manage other safety challenges, like site evacuations.
By Graham Sharp, Stanley on 08 December 2025
Respiratory protective equipment (RPE) is a vital tool for protecting workers from hazardous substances that pose an immediate risk to life and the risk of serious and fatal diseases at a later stage. However, RPE will only provide an effective level of protection if it is carefully selected to match the respiratory hazard, type of work and the physical attributes of the wearers.
By Ian Kelsall, Draeger Safety UK on 09 September 2025
If tight-fitting respiratory facepieces are required to protect against inhalation of hazardous substances, wearers must undergo a fit test by a competent person. However, it’s essential employers understand the benefits and shortcomings of the available test methods.
By Paul Salisbury, Fire Safe International Ltd on 04 September 2025
