BS 30417: A Major Step Forward for Inclusive PPE and Workplace Safety.

 

Some of you may remember my earlier post about women in male-dominated roles and the ongoing issue of ill-fitting PPE — a real safety and equality concern for many across industries. 
 
I’m really pleased to share that the Provision of Inclusive Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guide – BS 30417 has now been published.

This new British Standard provides practical, evidence-based guidance for employers across all sectors, aiming to tackle the longstanding issue of PPE traditionally designed around the male physique. 
 
BSI research found that 46% of British women have been supplied with ill-fitting or inappropriate PPE — something that can compromise both safety and comfort at work. The guidance also supports inclusion for people with disabilities, religious dress considerations, and diverse body types. 
 
The introduction of BS 30417 is a significant step towards ensuring PPE is inclusive, effective, and suitable for everyone, helping reduce workplace risks and improve compliance. The standard enables employers to evaluate suppliers and develop inclusive procurement specifications. 
 
A big step forward for health, safety, and inclusion in the workplace! 

 

Women in Male-Dominated Roles. 

 

Company Responsibility, Diversity, and Inclusion 

When discussing company responsibility and sustainability, it is essential to consider not only environmental concerns, which have received increasing attention, but also the ethical and moral obligations of an organisation.

Diversity in terms of race, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, socio-economic backgrounds etc. brings the benefit of a wide range of perspectives, thoughts and ideas which can be representative of the organisation’s customer base.  In the most successful organisations these differences are recognised and celebrated through the development of fair policies and practices, resulting in employees feeling valued, respected and empowered. 

Diversity in My Work Context 

In my consulting role, I observe how diversity and inclusion play out in client organisations. Key examples include gender, foreign workers, younger and older workers, expectant and new mothers, and disabled employees. 

The construction industry has seen a rise in foreign or immigrant workers with limited English, creating challenges in ensuring safety information is properly communicated. Tools such as bilingual staff and visual aids help, but cannot guarantee understanding. 

Age differences can also create difficulties. Older employees may become frustrated with younger workers who appear reckless, while younger employees may resist traditional practices. Encouraging mentoring and providing thorough training helps bridge this gap and promotes teamwork, which is crucial in high-risk environments. 

Download our article here to find out more about Women in Male Dominated Roles

 

Managing Health and Safety in Construction: A Constant Balancing Act

 

Managing health and safety in construction is a constant balancing act between regulation, human behaviour, cost, and operational realities. It requires strong leadership, a proactive safety culture, clear communication, and continuous monitoring. 

Health and safety isn’t just about individual risks—it spans organisational, regulatory, and operational challenges.

Download our article here to find out more about managing Health and Safety in Construction.

 

Approved GQA NVQ Training Centre

 

We are now a GQA NVQ Approved Training Centre and can give you access to NVQ qualifications in Construction and Site Management. These nationally recognised qualifications offer you career progression and industry expertise.

Our new GQA NVQ courses are offered at our Training Centre based in Keighley.

To book your place email us at vj@johngreentc.co.uk or call us on 01535 608592

 

Working with Crown Management Systems to help companies achieve ISO Accreditation and to meet UKAS requirements.

We are pleased to be working with Crown Management Systems to help companies ensure ISO Accreditation is achieved and UKAS requirements are met.

Crown Management have over 30 years’ experience in helping companies both large and small to achieve ISO standards/Industry specific standards and CE/UKCA marking for Constructional Steelwork.

Like us, they offer a constructive, user friendly and bespoke approach to delivering their services and exceed client expectations.

Find out more here.

CSCS Green Card

 

We now offer the Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment training course and can deliver the final assessment direct to you using our market-leading examination system. Completing this course and exam enables you to apply for your CSCS Green card (Construction Skills Certification Scheme card.) Most construction companies will not allow workers on-site who do not have a CSCS card.

Find out more here.