March/April 2024

Factory Floor
SUB-STANDARD PPE ITEMS 'WIDESPREAD' WARNS BSIF
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has issued a warning
to those overseeing personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety
product procurement, after its latest tests on non-member products
highlighted the widespread availability of sub-standard and even
dangerous items.
Between December 2022 and December 2023, the BSIF examined
123 non-member products, assessing advertised performance, marking
adequacy and compliance with standards. Shockingly, only 21% proved
fully compliant, leaving a staggering 79% falling short of testing criteria.
Worryingly, many of these sub-standard products are still available and in
use, posing serious risks to unsuspecting users.
Examples of products from non BSIF-registered members that failed testing
include a pair of safety boots which failed toe-cap compression tests; a pair
of safety spectacles which failed an impact resistance test; protective gloves
which failed abrasion testing, and a respiratory protective mask (FFP3),
purchased from a PPE distributor, which performed at only half the required
level during filter penetration tests against contaminants.
BSIF CEO, Alan Murray, said: “Our latest test results show that you don’t
have to look very far to find examples of inadequate and sub-standard 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.”
For a full list of Registered Safety Suppliers, visit:
www.registeredsafetysupplierscheme.co.uk
NEW QUIET SERIES AIR COMPRESSOR
Makita has added a new air compressor to its Quiet Series range.
Designed for use across a range of applications to enable efficient and consistent operation of tools,
the new, compact MAC210Q is the latest air compressor to be launched by the tool manufacturer, and
it is available in 110V or 240V options.
Makita says the new one-HP, two-gallon, oil-free electric MAC210Q including case and base, ‘carries
all the Makita hallmarks that users rely on’ – faster recovery time, lower noise, longer tool life, and
consistent performance.
With a noise level of just 60dB(A) and weighing just 44lbs, the MAC210Q is perfectly suited to indoor
use and easy to transport around. www.makitauk.com
'NO COMPROMISE ON PROTECTION OR COMFORT'
Carhartt says its Michigan Rugged Flex S1P Mid-cut Safety Boot (F700909) is designed for ‘hardworking
tradespeople who refuse to compromise on protection or comfort’.
With a sneaker-inspired design, Carhartt says the Michigan Safety Boot blends advanced safety and
smart design features with lightweight materials, setting a whole new standard in occupational safety in
dry environments.
This shoe has a strong fibreglass safety toe that meets the stringent EN ISO 20345:2012 S1P standards,
providing solid protection from 200 joules of weight and impact. As comfort is so important for long days at
work, the design includes a fully cushioned footbed with shock absorption to reduce fatigue, while the fit is
carefully engineered to give enough space for your feet to expand over time, ensuring lasting comfort.
www.carhartt.com
50 T F MARCH / APRIL 2024 CONNECTING THE WINDOW, DOOR & ROOF FABRICATION SUPPLY CHAIN