The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have shared new regulations surrounding Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in the workplace.

The new rules – which come into force from 6 April 2022 – build on legislation first passed in 1992 and extend the responsibilities of employers to so called “limb” workers.

The original regulations provide a duty on every employer in Great Britain to ensure that suitable PPE is provided to employees who may be exposed to risks to their health or safety while at work. The update extends these responsibilities to contractors and others.

The pandemic has ensured that PPE has been at the forefront of the public’s mind, but in this instance it also includes more traditional equipment necessary to undertake work safely such as goggles, boots and other protective clothing. Companies that fall foul of these rules can receive verbal and written enforcement notices from HSE inspectors, and in the most serious cases face prosecution.

Commenting on the changes, EIC's Director of Culture, Skills and HR Claire Clifford said: “Don’t fall foul of the changes to rules on 6 April! The new requirements mean there is now a statutory duty to ensure all workers including contractors have the right PPE to work safety for you. With the change only a few weeks away, we’d recommend a review of practices and process to ensure your company is on top of the rule changes.”

Find out more on the changes at the HSE website.