Industrial Safety Standards & Certifications
A practical reference guide to the key EN standards, PPE classifications and UK regulations that govern workplace safety. Use this to specify compliant products and demonstrate due diligence to the HSE.
Key EN Standards Explained
Click any standard to expand its protection classification levels.
EN ISO 20345
Safety Footwear
The European standard for safety footwear. Defines performance requirements including toecap protection (200J impact), slip resistance, and sole penetration resistance.
EN 166 / EN 172
Eye & Face Protection
EN 166 covers personal eye protection specifications. EN 172 governs sun glare filters for industrial use. Markings on lenses and frames indicate protection class, optical class and UV performance.
EN 20471
High-Visibility Clothing
Specifies requirements for high-visibility warning clothing for professional use. Background material and retroreflective material areas define the class level.
EN 388
Protective Gloves — Mechanical Risks
Defines protection levels against abrasion, cut, tear and puncture. The 2016 update added EN ISO 13997 (TDM) blade cut testing for higher-risk applications.
EN 14683 / EN 149
Respiratory Protection
EN 149 covers filtering facepiece respirators (FFP). Three classes define particle filtration efficiency. Essential for dusty environments, aggregate, pharmaceuticals and chemical handling.
ISO 4414 / PSSR 2000
Pneumatics & Pressure Systems
ISO 4414 provides safety requirements for pneumatic fluid power systems. The UK Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR 2000) require written schemes of examination for pressurised systems above threshold.
Safety Best Practices
Principles every safety manager should embed into their programme.
Risk Assessment First
Always conduct a formal risk assessment (RAMS) before selecting PPE or implementing safety controls. Hierarchy of controls: eliminate → substitute → engineer → administrate → PPE.
Verify Certification Marks
Look for the CE mark (or UKCA mark post-Brexit) alongside the EN standard number. BSiF registered suppliers provide additional assurance of genuine certified product.
Training & Fit Testing
PPE is only effective when worn correctly. Ensure workers are trained and respiratory equipment is fit-tested per INDG479. Record training in a competency register.
Inspection & Replacement
Establish a PPE inspection and replacement schedule. Safety footwear should be replaced every 6–12 months under heavy use. Helmets after any significant impact.
Compatibility Checks
When combining multiple PPE items (e.g. hard hat + ear defenders + face shield), verify they do not compromise each other's protection levels. Test combinations before deployment.
Documented Compliance
Maintain records of PPE issue, training, inspection dates and supplier declarations of conformity. This is essential for HSE audits and insurance purposes.
Key UK Regulations
The primary legislative framework your workplace safety programme must address.
Health & Safety at Work Act 1974
The primary UK legislation placing general duties on employers and employees.
PPE at Work Regulations 2022
Extended PPE duties to limb (b) workers and agency staff from April 2022.
Management of Health & Safety at Work Regulations 1999
Requires suitable risk assessments and appointment of competent persons.
COSHH Regulations 2002
Control of Substances Hazardous to Health — essential for chemical and dust environments.
Provision & Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)
Covers safety of machinery and work equipment including maintenance requirements.
Lifting Operations & Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)
Thorough examination requirements for all lifting equipment.
This guide is for reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a competent health and safety professional and refer to current HSE guidance for your specific industry.
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