May 2024
The British Safety Industry Federation is the major independent voice for the UK safety industry – recognised as a Competent Authority by the Health and Safety Executive and the principal association for the Personal Protective Equipment Regulation. BSIF certified suppliers exemplify a commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and compliance.
Purchase Confidently from BSIF Certified Suppliers
If a product cannot perform to its specifications and claimed standards, users will be unknowingly exposed to dangers. Buying PPE from a trusted, certified source ensures that the products are fully compliant. The BSIF highlights the importance of compliance and the risk of non-certified products through their Registered Safety Supplier Scheme (RSSS).
BSIF-registered suppliers have gone through rigorous auditing and certification procedures which ensure that their products are 100% compliant*, giving you peace of mind when selecting them as your chosen PPE supplier. The BSIF publishes certified suppliers on their website and maintains routine auditing to ensure their members maintain appropriate requirements. Regular audits and continuous improvement are crucial elements for maintaining high standards of PPE.
Assured by Independent Audits
The annual tests required for members ensure their products consistently meet regulatory standards and performance requirements. These not only help identify and rectify any potential issues promptly but also foster a culture of continuous improvement among suppliers. By adhering to these auditing processes, BSIF members demonstrate a commitment to delivering reliable, high-quality safety equipment. Regular audits ensure that the PPE you rely on is not only compliant at the time of purchase but remains effective throughout its use.
Being a member of the BSIF holds companies responsible to standards claimed and ensures strict procedures are in place if a product needs to be recalled. This enables buyers to source products from suppliers with confidence, backed by genuine claims and a scheme with a proven track record.
Alongside audits, BSIF members are also committed to qualifying staff with the Safe Supply Course. This is a publicly recognised qualification which develops the expertise and knowledge of customer-facing staff so they can provide reliable, specialist advice.
Visit our page on BSIF member obligations here to learn more about what PWS’ BSIF membership means for our customers.
How to Purchase from BSIF Certified Suppliers
To ensure you’re buying from suppliers which are compliant, competent, and trustworthy, look for the BSIF shield and follow this three step process:
1. Check – the supplier is BSIF registered.
2. Select – appropriate, certified, and compliant products.
3. Protect – your workforce and your business.
Companies displaying the shield have pledged a binding declaration and bear the necessary UKCA and/or CE markings. Visit the BSIF website for a full list of BSIF certified suppliers and further information on the RSSS membership process.
An Employers Responsibility to Buy Compliant PPE
Under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations (PPER), employers are required to provide PPE if hazards are apparent. The PPE provided must be ‘appropriate for the risks involved, the conditions at the place where exposure to the risk may occur, and the period for which it is worn’.
Employers need to make sure workers supplied with PPE free of charge and that the suitable PPE is:
- provided
- compatible
- maintained
- correctly stored
- used properly
In 2022, these regulations were updated. The PPER broadened to include individuals working casually or irregularly. This wider scope means workers outside of the traditional definitions of an employee can fall under your responsibility to provide PPE. For full guidance, please visit the HSE website.
*When testing the standard claims of products from a pool of Registered Safety Suppliers, 91% passed. The 33 which failed quickly rectified issues identified.
Learn more about how PWS assures quality throughout our services here.
