A guide to BS 30417: The new inclusivity standard for PPE

PPE is essential for keeping workers safe from hazards in the workplace.

Protective clothing, safety shoes, gloves, goggles, and helmets all play a vital role. 

But PPE is typically made to fit the average male worker. There’s no accommodation for women, those with different body types, or religious clothing. 

This is a safety issue.

PPE that doesn’t fit properly is uncomfortable, restricts movement, and ultimately fails to protect. 

Earlier PPE regulations didn’t outline any standards for providing inclusive PPE. Without clear guidance, providing PPE that suits all workers is challenging.

BS 30417 addresses this gap. It sets new inclusivity standards to ensure that all workers receive PPE that keeps them safe. 

Here’s what you need to know about incorporating BS 30417 guidance into your procurement strategy.

Common Inclusivity Problems When Providing PPE

To provide inclusive PPE for every member of your workforce, you first need to understand the challenges:

ONE SIZE DOES NOT FIT ALL

Standard PPE sizing presents safety risks for women, different faiths, and different body types. 

These safety risks include:

• Safety boots that are too big can lead to more trips and falls.
• Workwear trousers that are too long or too tight around the hips.
• Loose hand protection that prevents safe handling of tools and machinery.
• Safety helmets that do not allow religious headwear to be worn underneath.

REMEMBER: When PPE doesn’t fit, and makes work more clumsy and difficult, employees often remove it. This defeats its purpose.

PPE REGULATION 2022 (PPER 2022)

PPER 2022 requires employers to provide adequate PPE.

However, while it sets minimum safety standards, it does not specify inclusivity. Following these rules alone may leave some workers at risk from poorly fitting PPE.

PROCUREMENT DIFFICULTIES

Many PPE suppliers don’t supply inclusive ranges, and buying smaller sizes or generic products rarely solves safety or comfort issues.

PPE must be designed to suit different body types and physical needs.

How BS 30417 Addresses These Issues

BS 30417 is a guidance standard that helps employers provide inclusive PPE for all staff. 

It builds on previous PPE regulations to ensure that all genders, body types, and religious needs are accounted for. 

HThe standard covers:

• Creating a cross-site inclusive PPE policy 
• Getting feedback on PPE from those who use it
• Designing an inclusive PPE procurement process
• Training employees on adjusting PPE to fit them comfortably

Importantly, BS 30417 highlights that cost should not outweigh the need for inclusive safety. The focus is on protecting all workers effectively.

Tips for Creating an Inclusive PPE Policy

1. IDENTIFY RISK AREAS IN YOUR CURRENT PPE

Review existing PPE to spot risks for different users. Conduct risk assessments to uncover safety issues specific to female employees or those with religious clothing requirements.

EXAMPLE: Check your hi-vis vests for potential sizing issues around the chest, which could obscure reflective tape visibility.

2. TEST PPE WITH EVERY MEMBER OF YOUR WORKFORCE

Any new PPE products you’re considering should go through a trial period.

Employees should test items and provide feedback on sizing, comfort, and usability.

3. PROVIDE PPE TRAINING

All employees should be trained in using the PPE provided to them.

Include guidance on adjusting items for comfort while maintaining safety. Workers naturally adjust poorly fitting PPE; training ensures they do it safely.

4. CREATE A NEW PROCUREMENT POLICY

Procurement teams should follow a policy focused on inclusivity.

This should include:

• Prioritising inclusive suppliers
• Using wearer feedback to inform inclusive purchasing decisions
• A review of your PPE to prevent overstocking on non-inclusive items

5. REVIEW PPE PROCESSES REGULARLY 

PPE needs evolve.

Policies should reflect current workforce requirements, including:

• New employees with diverse clothing needs
• Team members with changing physical requirements, such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, or disability

Regular reviews ensure your PPE provision remains effective and inclusive.

Work with an Inclusive PPE Supplier

At SMI, we provide inclusive PPE ranges that help keep employees safe, cut procurement costs, and reduce stock waste

Our ladies’ ranges, including safety footwear, workwear, and hi-vis, are designed for women in the workplace.

Partnering with an inclusive PPE supplier demonstrates your commitment to safety and diversity. It benefits your team and ensures your business remains health and safety compliant.

Want to know more? Have a chat with our team! 

FAQs

What are the HSE guidelines on PPE?

The HSE guidelines make it much easier for employers to understand legal PPE regulations. 

These include:

• How to choose the right PPE
• When and where to use PPE
• Conducting risk assessments
• How to store and maintain PPE

What are the 5 standard types of PPE?

There’s a wide range of PPE available, but the most common types fit into these 5 categories:

• Fall protection
• Head protection
• Hearing protection
• Eye & face protection
• Respiratory protection

Are employers legally required to provide PPE?

Absolutely. If a risk to health and safety has been identified, employers must provide suitably protective PPE to all employees. 

This PPE should be provided for free and be replaced when no longer protective.