1 week ago Ian Crellin

Shocking 90% of PPE from non-registered providers fails tests.

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has issued an urgent warning to those responsible for procuring personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety products following the results of its latest independent tests. These findings once again reveal the alarming prevalence of substandard—and potentially hazardous—products circulating in the market.

Between December 2023 and December 2024, the BSIF tested 161 products from non-member suppliers, assessing their advertised performance, labelling accuracy, and compliance with relevant standards. Alarmingly, only 10% (16 products) met full compliance requirements, while an overwhelming 90% (138 products) failed to meet the necessary criteria with seven test results still pending.

Particularly troubling was the finding that in some categories, including head protection, eye & face protection and fall protection, every non-member product tested (100%) failed the assessments. Even more concerning is the fact that many of these substandard products are still available for purchase, placing unsuspecting users at significant risk.