The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has launched a national campaign called Bad Vibrations to raise awareness of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS).
UK regulators remove TikTok safety shoes over PPE breaches
UK recall highlights online safety shoe risks
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has reported that safety shoes sold via TikTok have been recalled following concerns over product safety and regulatory non-compliance.
According to the BSIF, the shoes were advertised as offering protection against impact and penetration but had not undergone conformity assessment and lacked CE or UKCA marking.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) confirmed that the footwear did not meet the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2016/425 or the Personal Protective Equipment (Enforcement) Regulations 2018.
The shoes were removed from TikTok after enforcement action by the OPSS, prompted by product safety consultant Lewis Collantine, who raised the alert.
Despite the recall, the BSIF said similar footwear remained available for purchase on other online marketplaces, including Temu.
TikTok-listed shoes failed required safety assessments
The product, listed under various promotional names on TikTok, was described as “anti-smash” and “anti-puncture” but failed to meet basic testing standards, the OPSS said.
The regulator stated: “The product presents a serious risk of injuries because although advertised as ‘anti-smash’ and ‘anti-puncture,’ there is no evidence it has undergone conformity assessment as PPE and it is not CE or UKCA marked.”
It added: “The product does not meet the requirements of the Regulation (EU) 2016/425 on Personal Protective Equipment or the Personal Protective Equipment (Enforcement) Regulations 2018.”
BSIF CEO Alan Murray said: “No surprises here. The BSIF has been aware of a burgeoning volume of substandard footwear available on platforms such as TikTok for some time, but we are pleased to see Trading Standards take action and we must applaud the work of Lewis Collantine, who has been instrumental in bringing this example to light.
“This is exactly why the new Product Safety and Metrology Bill needs to ensure there are real ramifications for online suppliers who fail to provide properly certified products.
“Employers and users deserve confidence that PPE described as protective genuinely meets standards and offers the protection it claims.”
Personal purchases and employer responsibility
The BSIF stated that many of the recalled products may have been purchased by individuals who were given PPE allowances but lacked knowledge of safety certification requirements.
Alan Murray added: “We suspect that many of these products are being bought personally by workers – including limb (b) workers who are not direct employees but for whom employers still have a legal duty to provide PPE under recent updates to the PPE Regulations.
“These individuals are often given a budget to buy their own PPE but may not fully understand the regulations or certification requirements surrounding safety products.
“The reality is that substandard PPE advertised as protective simply does not protect workers, and it can put lives at risk.”
BSIF surveillance reveals ongoing safety failures
BSIF market monitoring has found that substandard PPE remains widespread in the UK market.
Roy Wilders, BSIF Registered Safety Supplier Scheme Manager, said: “Year in, year out, the BSIF’s market surveillance shows there is an alarming volume of substandard PPE available to buy and in use in the UK.
“Our latest statistics show a shocking 90% failure rate for products we bought and tested from non-registered suppliers.
“This is in stark contrast to products from BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers, where almost 90% of products passed all the test criteria – and in the very few instances where discrepancies arose, they were immediately addressed and rectified.”
BSIF urges use of registered safety suppliers
The BSIF has reiterated the need for end users and employers to purchase PPE only from BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers to ensure compliance and safety.
The organisation said that these suppliers commit to providing properly tested, certified products in line with relevant PPE regulations.
It also noted that the Registered Safety Supplier Scheme aims to help employers and individuals identify suppliers who meet expected safety and quality standards.
Safety shoes recalled over PPE compliance failure: Summary
Safety shoes sold on TikTok have been recalled in the UK following regulatory concerns.
The BSIF attributed the recall to the work of Lewis Collantine and action by the OPSS.
The shoes were promoted as protective but lacked conformity assessment and certification.
The OPSS confirmed the shoes failed to meet EU and UK PPE regulations.
BSIF stated similar products remained for sale on other platforms such as Temu.
Alan Murray said substandard PPE could put lives at risk.
He noted some products are purchased by workers unaware of certification requirements.
Roy Wilders said BSIF surveillance found a 90% failure rate among non-registered suppliers.
Wilders said 90% of PPE from BSIF-registered suppliers passed test criteria.
The BSIF advised buyers to use BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers for compliant products.
BSIF CEO Alan Murray honoured with SHE Awards 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award
Award recognises decades of service to UK safety and health sector
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has reported that its Chief Executive Officer, Alan Murray, has been presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards 2025.
The award was given during a ceremony at the VOX Conference Centre in Birmingham attended by over 700 industry professionals.
According to BSIF, the award recognises Murray’s decades-long contribution to the UK’s safety and health sector and comes ahead of his planned retirement later in the year.
Murray will take up the position of Executive Chairman of BSIF following his departure as CEO.
Alan Murray’s leadership and career history
Murray joined BSIF in 2014 following a career in senior commercial roles in the safety and health sector.
He previously worked with Scott Safety and Kimberly-Clark, where he supported the development of workwear and protective clothing alongside existing paper-based products.
Earlier in his career, Murray held a leadership role at the London Rubber Company, helping develop hand protection products under the Durex and Marigold brands.
BSIF stated that Murray’s leadership had supported membership growth and increased influence for the organisation across the UK.
Murray’s contribution during the COVID-19 pandemic
BSIF noted Murray’s involvement in managing safety equipment supply standards during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under his leadership, the Federation supported the use of the Registered Safety Supplier Scheme to help ensure that personal protective equipment (PPE) supplied to workers met appropriate UK compliance requirements.
Murray also served as President of the European Safety Federation from 2019, completing two terms, and was named Honorary President of Safety Groups UK in 2024.
Industry response and future role
Chairman of BSIF, John Gill, commended Murray for his leadership and lasting impact on the organisation and the broader industry.
Gill said: “Alan has been instrumental in guiding BSIF to the influential position it holds today.
His unwavering commitment to safety, integrity, and standards has ensured our members not only thrive but serve the nation with products and services that truly protect lives.”
He added: “The Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting recognition of a career dedicated to making the UK one of the safest places to work in the world.”
BSIF stated that the Federation and its members welcomed Murray’s transition into the role of Executive Chairman and expressed appreciation for his continued guidance.
BSIF CEO Alan Murray honoured with SHE Awards 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award: Summary
Alan Murray, CEO of the British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF), has received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2025 Safety & Health Excellence (SHE) Awards.
The event was held at the VOX Conference Centre in Birmingham with over 700 attendees.
Murray is set to retire later this year and will become Executive Chairman of BSIF.
His career includes roles at Scott Safety, Kimberly-Clark, and London Rubber Company.
He joined BSIF in 2014.
During his tenure, BSIF implemented measures to ensure PPE compliance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Murray served two terms as President of the European Safety Federation and was appointed Honorary President of Safety Groups UK in 2024.
BSIF Chairman John Gill highlighted Murray’s role in expanding the Federation’s influence.
The organisation stated it looks forward to Murray’s continued involvement in his upcoming position.
BSIF appoints John Hooker as new CEO
Leadership transition at British Safety Industry Federation
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has announced that John Hooker will become its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in the summer of 2025.
He will succeed Alan Murray, who has led the organisation for 11 years.
Alan Murray said: “After 11 thoroughly enjoyable years at BSIF, I am delighted to pass the baton on to someone of John’s calibre, who will lead the Federation in its next important phases of development, serving the safety industry in the UK.”
John Hooker’s experience in safety and certification
John Hooker currently serves as the Chief Executive of SATRA Technology Centre Ltd, where he has played a key role in enhancing the organisation’s personal protective equipment (PPE) certification and testing capabilities.
Since joining SATRA in 2015 as Executive Director, he has overseen the development of its Century House test equipment manufacturing facility.
His career began in engineering before transitioning to operations and commercial general management.
He has held board positions in manufacturing and service companies across regulated industries, including the medical device and automotive sectors.
BSIF’s focus on workplace safety
The BSIF is the UK’s leading trade body for the safety and health industry, working with manufacturers, suppliers, and regulators to improve workplace safety.
The Federation supports businesses in ensuring compliance with safety standards and the supply of certified PPE and safety equipment.
John Hooker said: “I am very excited to be joining the BSIF and really looking forward to supporting the leading PPE and Safety Equipment businesses, as well as the broader market, in improving workplace safety and health across the UK.”
Next steps for BSIF under new leadership
John Hooker will officially take over as CEO in the summer of 2025.
His leadership is expected to guide BSIF’s ongoing efforts in promoting safety standards and supporting industry advancements.
Alan Murray’s departure marks the end of more than a decade leading the organisation.
BSIF has expressed confidence in Hooker’s ability to continue its mission of improving workplace safety across the UK.
BSIF appoints John Hooker as new CEO: Summary
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has announced that John Hooker will become its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in the summer of 2025, taking over from Alan Murray.
Hooker currently leads SATRA Technology Centre Ltd and has extensive experience in PPE certification, testing, and regulated industries.
BSIF supports workplace safety by working with manufacturers, suppliers, and regulators to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Hooker has expressed enthusiasm for his new role and aims to continue BSIF’s efforts in improving workplace safety across the UK.
BSIF report finds high failure rates in non-member PPE products
BSIF tests reveal high PPE failure rates
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has warned about the widespread presence of substandard personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety products following its latest independent testing.
Between December 2023 and December 2024, BSIF tested 161 PPE products from non-member suppliers.
Only 16 products (10%) met full compliance standards, while 138 (90%) failed.
Seven test results are still pending. Failures were recorded across all PPE categories.
In some cases—such as head protection, eye and face protection, and fall protection—every non-member product tested failed to meet regulatory standards.
High failure rates across multiple PPE categories
BSIF’s testing found concerning safety failures in several key product areas:
- Head protection: All six tested products failed, with deficiencies in penetration resistance and shock absorption.
- Eye and face protection & fall protection: All 13 tested products failed, failing to resist impacts and compromising user safety.
- Safety footwear: 31 out of 36 tested products (86%) failed, with issues including inadequate impact resistance and slip protection.
- Hearing protection: 28 out of 31 tested products (90%) had incorrect cushion and headband pressures, affecting noise reduction.
- Safety gloves: 21 out of 22 tested products (95%) failed to meet cut, abrasion, and puncture resistance claims.
- Hi-vis clothing: 11 out of 13 tested garments (85%) failed brightness and visibility standards.
- Respiratory protective equipment (RPE): 22 out of 25 tested products (88%) did not meet filtration requirements for hazardous dust and fumes.
BSIF member suppliers show better compliance rates
In contrast to the non-member results, BSIF found a significantly higher compliance rate among its Registered Safety Suppliers.
Out of 399 tests conducted on PPE from BSIF members, 322 products (86%) passed.
Of the 51 products that initially failed, all issues were addressed and corrected.
BSIF CEO Alan Murray said: “People are continually surprised by the sheer volume of PPE and safety products that fail to meet basic safety standards.
What’s even more shocking is that, despite vendors being informed of these deficiencies, such products often remain on the market, continuing to expose unsuspecting buyers and users to significant risks.”
BSIF urges buyers to verify supplier credentials
BSIF has advised PPE buyers and procurement teams to ensure that products meet regulatory standards by checking for the BSIF Shield.
The BSIF Registered Safety Supplier Scheme Manager, Roy Wilders, said: “When protective—and sometimes life-saving—equipment fails to meet standards, it’s not just a statistic; it’s a potential tragedy waiting to happen.”
Wilders added that the BSIF team actively monitors the market to identify and address substandard products, but buyers must also take responsibility by verifying suppliers before making purchases.
BSIF report finds high failure rates in non-member PPE products: Summary
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has reported that 90% of PPE products tested from non-member suppliers failed to meet compliance standards.
Testing between December 2023 and December 2024 covered 161 products, with 138 failing regulatory assessments.
Categories with 100% failure rates included head protection, eye and face protection, and fall protection.
In contrast, 86% of PPE from BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers passed compliance tests.
BSIF has urged buyers to check for the BSIF Shield to ensure they are purchasing safe and certified PPE.
BSIF highlights risks of non-compliant personal protective equipment in the UK
Alarming rate of non-compliance discovered
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has issued a stark warning regarding the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety products.
Their latest tests on products from non-member companies have uncovered a disturbing prevalence of substandard and potentially dangerous items.
During a year-long investigation from December 2022 to December 2023, the BSIF scrutinised 123 non-member products for advertised performance, marking adequacy, and compliance with standards.
Shockingly, a mere 21%—26 products—met full compliance criteria, leaving an overwhelming 79%, or 97 products, failing to meet the required testing standards.
Many of these deficient products are alarmingly still available for purchase and use, posing grave risks to users.
Examples of product failures highlight risks
Among the non-compliant products were a Flame Retardant Parka and a pair of safety boots purchased from an online retailer, both of which failed critical safety tests.
The parka’s outer layer was consumed by flames during flame spread testing due to inadequate protection, while the safety boots failed toe cap compression tests and were found to be over ten years old with outdated certification.
Additionally, a pair of safety spectacles from a high street retailer failed impact resistance tests, with lenses cracking or breaking upon impact.
Despite assurances to remove these products from sale, they remained available, further compounding the risk to consumers.
Similarly, three pairs of protective gloves and a Respiratory Protective Mask (FFP3) failed to meet their advertised performance levels and lacked the required documentation and correct markings, with sellers failing to act responsibly upon notification.
BSIF member products demonstrate high personal protective equipment compliance rates
Contrasting sharply with these findings, products supplied by BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers showed a significantly higher rate of compliance.
Of the 348 products tested from Registered Safety Suppliers within the same period, an impressive 91%—315 products—passed the tests on their first attempt.
For the remaining 9% that initially did not meet the standards, all issues were quickly identified and rectified, underscoring the commitment of BSIF members to selling certified PPE and conducting business with integrity and ethical standards.
Alan Murray, CEO of the BSIF, commented on the findings: “Our latest test results show that you don’t have to look very far to find examples of inadequate and substandard PPE and safety equipment for sale in the UK.
Shockingly, many unsuspecting users are relying on these compromised products for their safety.
Buyers and specifiers must urgently review their procurement processes and consider what assurances they have that the PPE and safety equipment they are being supplied with is fit for purpose.
Checking for the BSIF Registered Safety Supplier shield is the easiest way to ensure you only deal with compliant, competent, and trustworthy suppliers.
Remember, anyone can sell safety, but you shouldn’t buy safety from just anyone; always check for the shield.”
IFSJ Comment
The findings from the British Safety Industry Federation reveal a concerning landscape within the PPE market, where a significant proportion of products fail to meet safety standards.
This situation underscores the critical importance of due diligence in the procurement processes for safety equipment.
The BSIF’s efforts to illuminate these issues serve as a vital reminder for all stakeholders in the safety industry to prioritise compliance and reliability above all.
The stark contrast in compliance rates between non-member products and those supplied by Registered Safety Suppliers highlights the value of the BSIF Shield as a mark of credibility and assurance in the PPE marketplace.
It is essential for buyers and end-users to seek out this mark of quality to safeguard against the use of inadequate and dangerous products.