Companies ‘putting themselves at risk’ by not having diverse PPE available

The British Standards Institution’s new BS 30417 came into effect at the end of September, and aims to drive PPE accessibility away from a default ‘one size fits all’ approach.

It comes after recent research found that 46% of British women had been supplied with PPE or uniform that did not fit properly, creating potential safety risks and comfort issues when wearing it.

The new safety standard aims to help employers make sure they are being inclusive in their PPE offering for staff, taking into account gender, religion, disabilities and build to provide a variety of suitable sizes for all staff, rather than a single default offering.

Zoe Betts, a health and safety expert with Pinsent Masons, said “Beyond health and safety, this standard reflects growing expectations around equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.  PPE should, after all, be ‘personal’,” she said.

“Businesses that act now to review procurement policies and implement processes aligned with BS 30417 will not only reduce exposure to claims under the Equality Act and health and safety legislation but also demonstrate leadership in ESG and workforce wellbeing.”

“Early adoption turns compliance into a strategic advantage by enhancing brand reputation, supporting talent attraction and retention, and futureproofing against regulatory and societal shifts. By embedding these requirements proactively, companies position themselves as responsible employers and trusted partners in their sector.”

Campaigning groups across the construction industry in particular have been calling for greater diversity in PPE availability, with women’s PPE provision a mandatory requirement on sites signed up to the Considerate Contractors Scheme.

“The provision of inclusive protective equipment isn’t just a matter of compliance, it’s a matter of respect, dignity, and safety for every individual in the workforce,” said Anne Hayes, Director of Sectors and Standards Development with the BSI. “Ultimately, it is about ensuring workers are equipped to get on with their jobs.”