CIOB and BSI are to explore options for enabling buyers of PPE to more consistently provide PPE that fits all wearers.
In July, CIOB’s new president Sandi Rhys Jones launched the #PPEthatfits campaign, to drive awareness around the lack of inclusive PPE in the market.
Many personal anecdotes indicate that PPE does not take account of gender, religious or ethnic considerations – which Rhys Jones is anxious to address.
“At the Chartered Institute of Building, we are determined to make a difference in this area,” she said.
“These are people’s issues,” Rhys Jones added. “It’s particularly important for women, but there are men [who are important to this change] as well. We don’t want to be exclusive, we want to be inclusive.”
“That’s why it is important we examine the standards and guidance for PPE manufacturers and buyers in this vital area, with a view to improving on what is currently available where needed. There are already manufacturers producing inclusive PPE and we want to highlight these suppliers to PPE buyers in construction and other relevant industries.”
Progress on the issue
Stephanie Eynon, head of standards-makers engagement and inclusion at BSI, added: “We are happy that CIOB has invited us to work with them on this campaign. Our experts from relevant organisations have already started to examine the current standards for PPE and how they can play a role in driving progress on this issue. We know the challenge impacts many industries and all around the world, not just in the UK and we have the opportunity to change that, benefiting individuals, organisations and society.”
CIOB, in partnership with CM and CIOB People, is using the #PPEthatfits campaign to highlight the issue of inadequate PPE provision across the industry, as well as highlighting positive examples of inclusive and adaptive PPE.
