HAIX firefighting boot introduces waterproof EXTRAGUARD protection

by Breaking NewsPPEProducts

New firefighting boot uses EXTRAGUARD upper and CROSSTECH lining

HAIX has announced the launch of the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG, a firefighting boot featuring a new upper material designed to enhance protection and comfort.

According to HAIX, the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG is the first fire boot in the world to use GORE-TEX CROSSTECH EXTRAGUARD, a multi-layer textile designed to resist moisture and chemical exposure.

The company stated that the new material helps the boots remain lightweight and dry in wet or prolonged operations, while offering additional defence against blood, viruses and commonly used chemicals.

Lightweight upper designed to improve post-deployment drying

The EXTRAGUARD upper is made from a three-layer composite and is lighter than conventional leather, according to HAIX.

The manufacturer said the new material absorbs minimal moisture and dries faster after field use.

It explained that this can support firefighter safety and hygiene, particularly in flood response or extended suppression efforts where boots typically remain wet for long periods.

Boot meets F2A fire protection standard and PPE hygiene requirements

HAIX said the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG is certified to DIN EN15090:2012 and meets the F2A category for protective footwear.

The boot includes fibre-reinforced toe caps, an anti-perforation layer and a slip-resistant, heat-resistant sole.

The company added that the materials used in the boot can be cleaned under running water without the need for special care products, unlike traditional leather boots.

High visibility features and RFID compatibility included

To support equipment tracking, the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG includes a pocket designed for RFID chip insertion.

HAIX reported that the boot design also incorporates a yellow instep protector, which shields the laces and allows for easy cleaning, along with reflective elements to improve visibility in low-light or smoke-filled conditions.

Simon Ash, who is a representative of the company, said: “We’re proud to introduce the world’s first fire boot made with the groundbreaking Extraguard material.

“We’re proud to introduce the world’s first fire boot made with the groundbreaking Extraguard material.

“Not only is it lighter than anything currently on the market, but its fully waterproof construction enhances performance in the toughest conditions.

“Building on the success of our popular FIRE EAGLE range, this new boot is designed to give firefighters the confidence, comfort, and protection they need to carry out their work safely and effectively.”

HAIX firefighting boot introduces waterproof EXTRAGUARD protection: Summary

HAIX has launched the FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG fire boot.

The boot includes GORE-TEX CROSSTECH EXTRAGUARD upper material.

HAIX stated the EXTRAGUARD fabric is lighter than leather and resists chemical and moisture absorption.

The boot includes a waterproof and breathable CROSSTECH lining.

It is certified to DIN EN15090:2012 and meets the F2A protective footwear standard.

The boot includes a toe cap, anti-perforation protection and a heat-resistant sole.

Cleaning can be done under running water without special leather care.

RFID compatibility is supported via an integrated chip pocket.

High-visibility inserts and a smooth yellow instep protector are included.

The FIRE EAGLE 2.0 EXG is now available online and via specialist retailers.

Prosol UK fire blanket passes new EV fire safety standard

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Fire Cloak passes DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 test in UK

Prosol UK has reported that its Fire Cloak EV fire limitation blanket has passed all requirements of the DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 testing framework.

The company said the DIN standard was published in Germany in November 2024 and is the first regulated specification focused on fire blankets for electric vehicles.

According to Prosol UK, the certification confirms that Fire Cloak has met detailed requirements for loop strap design, flame resistance, strength testing, and thermal resistance up to 1,000°C.

The company stated that it has advocated for the creation of such a standard and welcomed the chance to test its product against the defined benchmarks.

DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 standard requirements

Prosol UK explained that the DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 introduces strict criteria for the design, performance and usability of fire blankets intended for EV incidents.

According to the company, requirements include clearly marked loop straps, mechanical stability testing, centreline identification, and performance validation at high temperatures.

The standard also requires fire blankets to be PFAS-free, include batch tracking and be usable on wet or dry vehicles by no more than two people within 30 seconds.

It stated that certification must include documented and visual evidence of all test outcomes and expert opinions confirming product suitability for EV use.

Fire Cloak tested in multiple fire resistance scenarios

The company noted that it had already conducted various third-party fire resistance tests prior to the DIN standard’s release.

Prosol UK listed several tests in which the Fire Cloak passed, including BS 476 Parts 6 and 7 (achieving Class 0), ASTM D6413, NFPA 701, and FMVSS 302.

It added that the Fire Cloak withstood 1,000°C for 90 minutes during an indicative furnace test based on BS476 Part 22 and achieved A2, s1, d0 under EN ISO 13501-1:2018.

Standard aims to improve safety in EV fire situations

According to Prosol UK, the purpose of DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 is to provide assurance to responders, technicians and the public when dealing with lithium-ion battery incidents.

The company said that standardised testing helps build trust in product performance and improves the quality of emergency tools available on the market.

It also stated that it will continue to work with safety experts and regulators to share knowledge and improve safety outcomes in EV-related fire incidents.

Fire blanket passes DIN SPEC 91489 testing for EV fire safety: Summary

Prosol UK announced its Fire Cloak EV fire blanket has passed DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11.

The DIN standard is the first regulated test for EV fire blankets.

It includes strict requirements for strap placement, flame resistance, strength, and usability.

Fire Cloak met all criteria, including thermal resistance up to 1,000°C.

Tests include EN ISO 13501-1, FMVSS 302, and BS476 Part 22.

Prosol UK conducted additional third-party testing prior to certification.

DIN approval requires physical testing and documentation of all results.

The company stated it supports efforts to improve safety in lithium-ion battery fires.

DIN SPEC 91489:2024-11 was developed in Germany and released in November 2024.

Prosol UK confirmed it will continue engaging with regulators and industry experts.

Mayplas Thermafire A2 Soffit achieves A2 fire classification

by Featured NewsPassiveProducts

New soffit product meets UK fire safety standard

Mayplas has announced that its recently launched Thermafire A2 Soffit has achieved an A2-s1,d0 Reaction to Fire classification under BS EN 13501-1.

The company stated that the slab, designed to provide both thermal and acoustic insulation, is suitable for use within the soffit at the party wall junction and other areas of construction.

According to Mayplas, the product was introduced in March 2025 and has now been confirmed to meet the A2 classification for limited combustibility.

Insulation performance supports UK building regulations

The company said the Thermafire A2 Soffit is available in various densities and in both 100mm and 150mm thicknesses.

It added that these options allow flexibility in meeting thermal performance requirements set out in Approved Document L.

Mayplas noted that the product is compatible with both masonry and timber frame constructions.

Acoustic properties and installation features

Mayplas reported that the product also addresses sound transmission in line with Approved Document E.

According to the company, standard 600mm x 600mm slabs can be cut on site to fit soffit voids.

It explained that the soffit can be secured to timber trusses or masonry blocks using the correct fixings, which Mayplas is able to supply.

Fire performance and market application

Michael Hunter, Technical Director at Mayplas, said the classification supports wider use in construction: “Achieving an A2-s1, d0 Reaction to Fire classification for our Thermafire soffit product is proving very useful.

“The test results open up new applications which we look forward to exploring with our housebuilder customers and with the construction industry more broadly.”

Mayplas stated that the foil facing of the product acts as a vapour barrier and prevents fibre migration.

The company confirmed the product is suitable for timber-based substrates and can be used with or without a cavity.

Mayplas Thermafire A2 Soffit achieves A2 fire classification: Summary

Mayplas has launched the Thermafire A2 Soffit.

The product was released in March 2025.

The company has confirmed that it has achieved A2-s1,d0 classification under BS EN 13501-1.

Mayplas stated the soffit provides thermal and acoustic insulation at party wall junctions.

It is available in multiple densities and in thicknesses of 100mm and 150mm.

The company said the product complies with Approved Documents L and E.

Slabs can be cut to size on site to fit soffit voids.

The product is foil faced to create a vapour barrier and stop fibre migration.

It can be used with masonry and timber frame builds.

Mayplas is based in Bury, Greater Manchester.

It is a member of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection and the Structural Timber Association.

PFAS Alternatives Act reintroduced to support safer fire fighter gear

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionHealth and SafetyPPESafety

Lawmakers move to fund development of PFAS-free turnout gear

A bipartisan group in the United States Congress has reintroduced the PFAS Alternatives Act, legislation aimed at eliminating toxic chemicals from fire fighter protective clothing.

According to the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), the bill was brought forward by Representatives Debbie Dingell and Sam Graves, and seeks to authorise $25 million for research into protective gear that does not contain per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

The IAFF said the bill would support the development of fire fighting gear that includes features such as visual alerts when cleaning is needed and adaptations to suit different body types.

IAFF highlights health concerns linked to PFAS exposure

The IAFF stated that exposure to PFAS in turnout gear is contributing to increased rates of cancer among fire fighters, citing that fire fighters are more than 14 percent more likely to die from certain cancers than the wider population.

IAFF General President Edward Kelly said: “The science is clear. Exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals is driving alarming rates of cancer in the fire service.”

He added: “The PFAS Alternatives Act is critical legislation that will help introduce next-generation, PFAS-free gear to better protect fire fighters and ensure we have a voice in developing the very products we rely on for safety.”

He continued: “The IAFF is grateful to Rep. Dingell and Rep. Graves for championing this legislation.”

Political backing for occupational safety reform

The IAFF reported that alongside Representatives Dingell and Graves, the bill has the support of lawmakers including Representatives Glenn Ivy, Brian Fitzpatrick, Dina Titus, Tom Kean Jr., Suzanne Bonamici, and Glenn “GT” Thompson.

Dingell said: “Fire fighters’ jobs are already dangerous enough without worrying about the long-term health risks of being exposed to dangerous PFAS in their turnout gear.”

She added: “The PFAS Alternatives Act will remove this unnecessary occupational hazard and help protect fire fighters as they work every day to protect us.”

Graves added: “America’s fire fighters charge into danger to save the lives of others. This bipartisan legislation will help develop the next-generation of firefighting gear to keep them safe.”

Federal support would extend beyond local efforts

The IAFF noted that while some U.S. states and cities have already moved to phase out PFAS in turnout gear, federal support is needed to scale research and ensure widespread availability of alternatives.

It explained that the PFAS Alternatives Act would provide funding through the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH) to back collaboration between scientists and fire fighters on gear development.

According to the IAFF, the gear would be designed to be safer, more adaptable, and to include new safety indicators.

PFAS Alternatives Act reintroduced to support safer fire fighter gear: Summary

A bipartisan group in the U.S. House has reintroduced the PFAS Alternatives Act.

The legislation is supported by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).

The bill was introduced by Representatives Debbie Dingell and Sam Graves.

It proposes $25 million in funding through the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH).

The funding would support development of turnout gear free from PFAS chemicals.

The IAFF stated that PFAS exposure is contributing to increased cancer rates in the fire service.

Turnout gear has historically included PFAS due to its heat-resistant properties.

The IAFF said the new gear would include cleaning indicators and gender-based fit adjustments.

The bill has also received support from Representatives Ivy, Fitzpatrick, Titus, Kean Jr., Bonamici and Thompson.

Some cities and states have already taken action on PFAS but federal backing is seen as necessary for broader change.

Fireaway Inc’s UltraSense fire detection and suppression solution launches in United States

by Featured NewsFire DetectionFire SuppressionProducts

Fireaway introduces integrated detection with Stat-X system at US trade shows

Fireaway Inc. has announced the launch of UltraSense sensors, a new detection solution designed to work alongside its Stat-X aerosol fire suppression system.

According to the company, the UltraSense product line will be introduced at CLEANPOWER 2025 in Phoenix and demonstrated again during NFPA 2025 in Las Vegas.

The UltraSense sensors are designed to detect early-stage thermal and environmental changes.

Fireaway stated that integrating these sensors with the Stat-X system provides a combined response for faster and more accurate mitigation of fire hazards.

The product is intended for sectors including energy storage, transport, manufacturing and infrastructure.

UltraSense system to support hazard monitoring across US industries

The manufacturer explained that UltraSense enables earlier identification of potential hazards, helping reduce delays in fire suppression.

The company noted that combining detection and suppression within one framework allows a more proactive response, especially in mission-critical environments.

Fireaway reported that the system is suitable for use in high-risk areas where rapid incident response is essential.

The UltraSense launch coincides with Fireaway’s 20th year in operation.

Fireaway CEO highlights anniversary and product integration

Lance Harry, P.E., president and CEO of Fireaway Inc., said: “UltraSense sensors represent the next evolution of critical asset protection and fire safety.

“By combining intelligent detection with our proven Stat-X aerosol fire suppression, we’re delivering a smarter, faster, and more comprehensive solution to protect high-value assets and operations.

“Launching UltraSense during our 20th anniversary highlights our continued focus on innovation, reliability, and meeting the real-world needs of our customers.”

Stat-X technology forms foundation for UltraSense integration

Fireaway stated that its Stat-X product range is already in use globally, known for its environmentally safe aerosol-based fire suppression.

The company added that pairing the UltraSense sensors with Stat-X brings additional intelligence to existing setups.

According to Fireaway, this dual approach can help reduce risk in settings with limited access or where immediate suppression is required.

The manufacturer confirmed that live demonstrations of the new system will take place at upcoming trade events.

Stat-X fire detection and suppression solution launches in United States: Summary

Fireaway Inc. has launched UltraSense sensors to complement its Stat-X suppression system.

The UltraSense line will be showcased at CLEANPOWER 2025 in Phoenix and NFPA 2025 in Las Vegas.

The system detects early-stage thermal and environmental changes.

It is designed for use in sectors such as energy storage and critical infrastructure.

Fireaway marked the release during its 20th anniversary year.

The company said combining UltraSense and Stat-X improves detection and suppression speed.

Lance Harry, P.E., described the new system as a smarter and more complete solution.

Stat-X systems are known for their environmentally responsible aerosol fire suppression.

Fireaway stated that UltraSense adds intelligence and shortens response time.

Live demonstrations will be held at Fireaway’s CLEANPOWER and NFPA 2025 booths.

Class A2 fire rated vapour control system launched by Glidevale Protect

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsPassiveProductsSafety

Internal air and vapour control product targets UK high-rise market

Glidevale Protect has launched a Class A2 fire rated internal air and vapour control layer for use in internal walls, ceilings, and floors.

According to Glidevale Protect, the new Protect FrameFoil FR membrane and complementary Protect FR Foil sealing tape are designed to be used alongside its existing FrameSafe FR external breather membranes.

The company stated that the new system provides a fire rated, airtight, and thermally efficient solution for both residential and commercial buildings, especially those over 11 metres in height and covered by the Building Safety Act in the United Kingdom.

Designed for use across construction types

Glidevale Protect explained that the Protect FrameFoil FR system is suitable for internal application in steel, masonry, and timber-framed buildings.

It added that the system has been independently fire tested both as a free-hanging membrane and in application over A1 and A2 substrates, achieving a Class A2-s1, d0 reaction to fire rating.

According to the company, this rating exceeds the requirements of Building Regulations Approved Document B in England and Technical Guidance Document B in Ireland.

Contributes to thermal performance and airtightness

The company stated that Protect FrameFoil FR features a woven glass fibre construction with an aluminium foil surface.

Glidevale Protect reported that the membrane delivers an aged thermal resistance (R-value) of 0.64 m²K/W when used facing into a still air cavity.

It said this helps enhance thermal efficiency and overall building energy performance.

Product aimed at compliance and offsite efficiency

Glidevale Protect highlighted that the system is intended for use across traditional and offsite construction methods.

John Mellor, Head of Marketing at Glidevale Protect, said: “FrameFoil FR is another exciting addition to our fire rated solution offering, designed to meet the increasing demands of regulatory compliance and building performance as well as helping to deliver airtightness, vapour control and thermal efficiency.”

He continued: “Combined with our Class A2 fire rated external wall membranes, we can provide specifiers, contractors, and developers with a fully independently fire tested wall membrane system solution.”

Mellor added: “This can be installed across all development heights, helping to build healthy solutions with fire rated materials that can provide added reassurance for specification.”

Class A2 fire rated vapour control system launched by Glidevale Protect: Summary

Glidevale Protect has launched a new Class A2 fire rated internal air and vapour control layer called Protect FrameFoil FR.

The product is designed for internal walls, ceilings, and floors in multi-occupancy buildings.

It is intended for use in steel, masonry, and timber-framed structures.

Glidevale Protect has also introduced Protect FR Foil tape to seal membrane laps.

The system has achieved a Class A2-s1, d0 fire rating.

Fire tests were conducted with both free-hanging membranes and fixed system applications.

The company stated that this rating exceeds UK and Irish building regulation requirements.

The system includes a woven glass fibre structure and an aluminium foil surface.

It delivers an aged thermal resistance of 0.64 m²K/W.

It is designed to support airtightness and improve energy efficiency.

Glidevale Protect developed the solution for both offsite and traditional construction.

The product is aimed at supporting compliance with the Building Safety Act in the UK.

It is targeted for use in projects over 11 metres in height.

The product is part of a wider system including external wall membranes.

Glidevale Protect said it allows full wall membrane system specification with fire rated components.

Alertex IP Bridges enable linked lockdown monitoring across UK school sites

by Featured NewsProductsSafety

Expanded device linking improves school-wide system coverage

Luminite has reported that Alertex IP Bridges can now be linked across a site, enabling remote monitoring and control of an unlimited number of lockdown devices on a school network.

The manufacturer stated that the update was introduced in response to requests from larger educational estates.

Each bridge connects Alertex devices to the local network.

The system identifies which units have been triggered, supports site-wide or individual testing, and reports battery status and signal strength.

The update to the IP Bridge software allows multiple bridges to be joined together without location restrictions.

According to Luminite, this enables trusts to monitor devices and activations across multiple sites, as long as the locations share the same network.

Centralised control and communication functions

Luminite explained that the system uses a master-slave configuration.

The master IP Bridge acts as the control point, with slave bridges relaying data and responding to instructions.

Each bridge works on a designated UHF frequency, which can be adjusted using a BLE terminal app to avoid interference.

Each slave bridge has a fixed IP address and a unique Device ID.

Luminite noted that these are connected through the master unit’s web interface, where individual zones can be named and configured.

The master interface allows full oversight of all devices in the network.

Site-wide alerts and performance tracking

The Alertex system allows text and email alerts to be sent to designated personnel.

This supports timely response to lockdown activations and provides updates on device status.

Low battery levels, weak signal strength, and unit-specific activations can all be reported automatically through the system.

The company stated that this capability is designed to help estates manage multiple buildings or geographically spread campuses.

By linking bridges and integrating alerts, schools can track the performance of all Alertex devices from a single dashboard.

Flexible application for educational trusts

Luminite reported that the software changes are aimed at making the system more applicable for multi-site trusts.

As long as schools are part of the same local network, they can share data from the IP Bridges without being physically connected.

This arrangement enables a single site to monitor lockdown activity or device health for other schools in the trust.

The system continues to operate independently if no slave bridges are installed, but additional zones can be added at any time.

Luminite confirmed that each device continues to operate on secure UHF frequencies to ensure stable communication.

Alertex IP Bridges enable linked lockdown monitoring across UK school sites: Summary

Luminite has reported that Alertex IP Bridges can now be linked across a local network.

The system enables remote monitoring of lockdown devices across large school estates.

It supports an unlimited number of devices when connected via linked bridges.

Bridges can now operate across multiple sites within a trust if they share a network.

Each bridge is assigned a static local IP and a unique Device ID.

A master-slave setup allows centralised control of all connected devices.

The master unit can operate independently for smaller systems.

Frequency settings are managed using a BLE terminal app.

The interface supports naming and zoning of connected devices.

Battery and signal strength status is reported via the bridge.

Text and email notifications can be sent to staff members.

Alerts show which specific device has been activated.

All devices communicate via UHF to prevent interference.

The system dashboard is accessed through the master unit.

The update responds to feedback from larger school estates.

It is currently in use across the United Kingdom.

C-TEC CAST fire alarm systems now covered by extended warranty

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Warranty introduced across full range of CAST-powered systems

C-TEC has confirmed that all CAST-powered life safety products manufactured from 1 May 2025 will now be covered by a 5-year warranty.

According to the company, the extended warranty includes the XFP and ZFP CAST addressable fire systems, the EVAC-ALERT BS 8629 evacuation alert system, the HUSH-PRO BS 5839-6 Grade C residential fire alarm systems and the CAST-PRO combined detection and alarm devices.

The manufacturer stated that this decision reflects confidence in its design, production and testing processes, all of which take place in-house in the UK.

Manufacturing process and quality assurance behind decision

C-TEC’s Manufacturing Director Peter Butterworth said: “We are incredibly proud of our manufacturing capabilities and our continued investment in cutting-edge technology and third-party certification.”

Butterworth added: “The decision to offer a 5-year warranty on our CAST-powered systems stems from the confidence we have in our manufacturing process quality and employee expertise.”

He said: “Every single one of our products is designed, manufactured and tested here at C-TEC to give us complete control over our processes and give our customers the confidence that our systems will work seamlessly in any situation.”

Warranty applies from 1 May 2025 for all CAST products

C-TEC stated that the extended warranty is effective only for CAST products manufactured after 1 May 2025.

The company explained that CAST (C-TEC Addressable System Technology) is its proprietary life safety protocol, designed to support quick installation, maintenance and operation.

C-TEC noted that all its key product lines are powered by CAST, including both commercial fire detection and residential alarm systems.

Sales director cites benefit for domestic and international users

Charlotte Manley, Sales Director at C-TEC, said: “Our CAST-powered life safety systems are proving to be a huge success not just in the UK but overseas too.”

Manley added: “The addition of a 5-year warranty across the entire range, combined with the EN54-13 system certification we have had on our XFP and ZFP CAST fire systems for some time, will hopefully provide the reassurance everyone in the supply chain needs that our systems are the right choice for multiple applications.”

She said: “Whatever the situation, CAST can help and I would urge anyone with an upcoming original project to get in touch as we have some very special project pricing available for first time CAST purchasers.”

C-TEC CAST fire alarm systems now covered by extended warranty: Summary

C-TEC has introduced a 5-year warranty on all CAST-powered fire safety systems.

The warranty applies to products manufactured after 1 May 2025.

Covered systems include the XFP and ZFP CAST addressable fire alarms.

Other eligible products include the EVAC-ALERT evacuation system and HUSH-PRO residential systems.

The CAST-PRO detection and alarm range is also covered.

C-TEC said the warranty reflects its in-house design and manufacturing standards.

Peter Butterworth said the company’s control over production supports this move.

Charlotte Manley said the warranty, alongside existing certification, supports product reliability.

CAST systems are used in UK and international projects.

The company encouraged potential buyers to contact their account managers for more details.

African women’s PPE study receives NEBOSH funding

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetyPPEResearchSafety

NEBOSH funds research into protective equipment for African women

NEBOSH has reported that it is funding a year-long study by the Society of Women in Safety, Health and Environment – Africa (SOWSHE-A) to examine the risks associated with personal protective equipment (PPE) used by African women.

The project will focus on how ill-fitting PPE, designed primarily for men, may increase the risk of injury for women across various work settings in Africa.

The research will include data gathering, demonstrations, simulations and community campaigns to raise awareness about anthropometric differences and their impact on safety.

Research will address risks linked to poorly fitted PPE

NEBOSH explained that PPE is considered the last defence against occupational hazards, and if it does not fit correctly, it can endanger the user.

The organisation stated that issues such as oversized clothing causing entanglement, loose footwear increasing the likelihood of slips, and poorly fitted headwear failing to provide adequate protection, are among the concerns that the project aims to address.

The study is expected to provide insights into the health and safety needs of African women and promote more inclusive PPE design.

Project aims to improve data on PPE for diverse users

NEBOSH Social Development Manager Mariyah Mandhu said: “There is limited international data related to women’s protective equipment, and even less so for women from different ethnic backgrounds.

“Our funding will enable the health and safety and wider business communities to understand the challenges and barriers of current PPE, with a longer-term view of creating inclusive PPE design and production practices.

“Ultimately, this will improve the safety and health of these women in the workplace.”

Mandhu stated that the partnership with SOWSHE-A aligns with NEBOSH’s goals of addressing diversity gaps in health and safety research.

SOWSHE-A highlights safety and gender equity goals

SOWSHE-A Founder Funmi Adegbola said: “We are thrilled to have NEBOSH’s support in advancing this important initiative.

“Their commitment to workplace safety and health aligns perfectly with our goal of ensuring that African women are equipped with the right PPE to protect their well-being.

“This collaboration is not only vital for improving the safety of women workers, but it also strengthens the movement for greater gender equity in the workplace.”

Adegbola added that the initiative will contribute to building awareness around inclusive workplace practices.

African women’s PPE study receives NEBOSH funding: Summary

NEBOSH is funding a year-long research project led by the Society of Women in Safety, Health and Environment – Africa (SOWSHE-A).

The research focuses on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by African women.

NEBOSH stated that ill-fitting PPE can increase the risk of harm in the workplace.

SOWSHE-A will conduct research, public demonstrations, simulations and campaigns during the project.

NEBOSH Social Development Manager Mariyah Mandhu said there is limited international data on women’s PPE.

Mandhu stated that the project aims to support more inclusive PPE design and production.

SOWSHE-A Founder Funmi Adegbola said the initiative aligns with goals for safety and gender equity.

The project is based in Africa and targets black African women in particular.

PPE awareness campaign launched in UK to highlight life-saving workplace protection

by Featured NewsPPESafety

BSIF launches PPE Saves campaign to promote safe and informed equipment use

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has launched a new national campaign titled PPE Saves, aiming to highlight the safety-critical role of personal protective equipment (PPE) in workplaces.

The BSIF said the campaign encourages employers to make informed decisions about PPE selection, certification and use, with the support and involvement of their workforce.

According to the federation, PPE is often underestimated despite being a final and essential line of defence when other safety controls cannot eliminate risk.

PPE highlighted as critical to workplace injury prevention

The BSIF stated that millions of workers in the UK rely on PPE each day for protection from common workplace hazards.

The federation noted that when equipment is well-designed, properly certified, and fitted correctly, it can prevent injury, minimise harm and support long-term health.

The organisation pointed to examples where PPE has a direct safety function, including the use of high-visibility clothing around vehicles, respiratory equipment for asbestos exposure, and helmets to reduce head injury severity.

Research supports role of PPE in reducing harm

The PPE Saves campaign references several research findings to demonstrate the impact of protective equipment in reducing injury and improving outcomes.

The British Medical Journal found that correct non-slip footwear reduced workplace falls by 49 percent.

Data from Manchester Royal Eye Hospital stated that 90 percent of eye injuries could be prevented with the correct protection.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) reported that over 1 million people in England and Wales visit A&E for head injuries annually, with proper helmets capable of lowering the impact.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) noted that noise-induced hearing loss is entirely preventable with well-fitted protection and that hand injuries represent 25 percent of non-fatal incidents at work, many of which can be avoided with correct gloves.

BSIF CEO calls for action on product quality and proper specification

BSIF Chief Executive Officer Alan Murray said: “PPE is vital for protecting lives across Britain every single day. But not all PPE performs well, and that’s a serious problem.”

Alan Murray added: “PPE Saves is a campaign dedicated to making sure workers have access to suitable and reliable PPE because investing in quality products isn’t just about safety, it shows you value your people.”

Alan Murray said: “There’s a wide range of innovative, comfortable, and sustainable PPE on the UK market. Yet poor-quality products are still in widespread use, compromising worker comfort and putting lives at risk. That’s why we’re raising awareness of what good PPE looks like, where to find it, and how to make sure it performs.”

The campaign includes a call for personal experiences from workers, employers and safety professionals to share real-life stories of PPE use using the hashtag #PPESaves.

PPE awareness campaign launched in UK to highlight life-saving workplace protection: Summary

The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has launched a national campaign called PPE Saves.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the role personal protective equipment plays in workplace safety.

BSIF stated that PPE is essential when risks cannot be fully eliminated through other safety controls.

The federation said the campaign encourages responsible PPE selection with workforce involvement.

Examples of PPE benefits include preventing falls, eye injuries, asbestos exposure, and hearing loss.

Research cited includes data from BMJ, Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, NICE and HSE.

Alan Murray, BSIF CEO, said the campaign seeks to address the problem of low-performing PPE products.

He said that responsible sourcing and quality specification are essential to ensure protection.

The campaign invites stakeholders to share their PPE experiences using the hashtag #PPESaves.