Since the beginning of the pandemic there has been a global rise of non-compliant PPE, however this was already on the increase because of online marketplaces offering lower priced protective clothing.
As appealing as the lower price point is, it is highly likely that counterfeit items could be putting your health, and in some cases your life, at risk. This is where the BSIF comes in.
An example of this is the well documented scandal of the KN95/FFP2 mask where the BSIF worked tirelessly and helped a huge number of end users avoid those fakes/counterfeits.
Since reporting these fakes to the Market Surveillance Authorities, BSIF now work closely with the OPSS ‘Office for Product Safety and Standards’ helping to ensure the PPE guidance they issue to the UK is appropriate.
Here are five reasons why you should purchase PPE from members of the BSIF.
1. BSIF Members are annually audited to ensure PPE compliance and capability of the supplier
These audits are undertaken annually, BSIF take the item to an independent testing facility to indicatively test it against the products claims. Members are also audited in line with their responsibilities and obligations as required by the PPE Regulation 2016/425.
BSIF also monitor non-member products, as random tests are also undertaken after being sourced by secret shoppers.
If a business fails this audit, they work closely with them to bring them up to compliant standards prior to registration and certification.
BSIF members sign a binding declaration that they undertake to supply only safety equipment and/or related services that fully comply with the standards and regulations and claims made relating to those products and/or related services.
2. BSIF keep audit records on each member, this provides a robust due diligence system that can be produced on demand.
When you purchase PPE from a BSIF registered safety supplier member, you can rest assured that you are buying from PPE specialists, with all the information you need to make the right choice for your team.
CutPRO® high performance cut-resistant clothing has a 6-month workmanship guarantee, and withstands regular laundering; unlike other cut-resistant materials that can degrade when exposed to moisture.
The sales team will make sure that your team is kitted out with the cut protection they need according to their working environment.
3. Is PPE you buy the genuine article? Check if they are a Registered Safety Supplier with BSIF.
BSIF has reported hundreds of spurious PPE operators, If a company’s product has not been audited by the BSIF, you could be in danger, even if it appears to be a genuine product. Watch this product testing video (drop test) of an illegal copy of a branded safety helmet, and why you should not cut costs with substandard copies.
As you can see this fake helmet cracks open upon impact, despite claims that it matches the capabilities of the original.
It was fully marked and embossed and only spotted due to cracking of the shells. If your team comes into contact with similar copies, we advise you report immediately.
Products that are cheaper do not save you money in the long run as they need regular replacement, or quickly need to be upgraded to products which are fit for purpose and do not breach regulations.
4. BSIF - PPE experts from within the PPE industry.
The BSIF offer qualifications such as the ‘Safe Supply Accreditation Level 2’ which educate those selling PPE in the importance of product standards, CE certification & market legalities. Educating UK operators in the Safety/PPE marketplace.
5. You know you are buying your team PPE they can trust…
From a company committed to ethical trade and protecting their customers. The PPE Regulation 2016/425 is embedded into UK Law. The Regulation is applicable to all Economic Operators involved in the supply of PPE.
Do not accept anything less than PPE from a Registered Safety Supplier with the BSIF.
Read more about how cut levels are being established by cut resistance standards.
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