Standards Development

Scope

This British Standard provides guidance for the provision and procurement of inclusive Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) across various industries and sectors. It encompasses the selection, procurement process, training, maintenance, and emergency preparedness related to inclusive PPE. The standard aims to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of all individuals, including those with diverse needs and abilities, by promoting accessibility and inclusivity in PPE provision.

Key Components: Selection Criteria: Defines criteria for selecting inclusive PPE, considering factors such as user comfort, ergonomics, and compatibility with diverse user groups.

Procurement Process: Outlines procedures for identifying suitable PPE suppliers, developing specifications, and evaluating suppliers based on inclusivity criteria.

Training and Education: Specifies training requirements for PPE users to ensure proper usage, fit, and maintenance of inclusive PPE, with a focus on accommodating diverse needs. Maintenance and Replacement: Provides guidelines for inspecting, maintaining, and replacing inclusive PPE to ensure ongoing effectiveness and user safety.

Applicability: This standard is applicable to organizations and individuals involved in the procurement, provision, and use of PPE across various industries, including but not limited to healthcare, construction, manufacturing, and public services. It addresses the needs of diverse user groups, including people with disabilities, ensuring equitable access to safety equipment in the workplace.

Exclusions: This standard does not cover the design or manufacturing specifications of PPE, nor does it replace existing legal or regulatory requirements. It focuses solely on guidance for the provision and procurement of inclusive PPE to promote accessibility and safety in the workplace.

Compliance: Adherence to this standard could assist organizations in fulfilling their legal obligations regarding the provision of PPE to their employees and other stakeholders. Adherence with the guidance provided in this standard may demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in PPE provision and procurement processes.

Note: This standard is intended to complement existing British standards and regulations related to occupational health and safety, providing specific guidance on the inclusive provision and procurement of PPE.

It may be used in conjunction with other relevant standards and best practices to enhance workplace safety and inclusivity.

Purpose

Horizontal Topics for PPE. There is a definite gap in standardization for inclusivity with regards to PPE and this standard is the first step in building a solution to the problem.