PPE/General/TBT-PPE-013

CE Marking and PPE Standards

Personal Protective Equipment › General › CE Marking and PPE Standards

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All PPE sold in the UK must carry a CE mark or UKCA mark confirming it meets essential safety requirements.
The CE mark shows the PPE has been tested and certified to the relevant European harmonised standard.
The UKCA mark is the UK equivalent following Brexit, though CE-marked PPE remains valid during the transition.
PPE is categorised into three groups: Category I (simple), Category II (intermediate), and Category III (complex/life-critical).
Category III PPE including harnesses, RPE, and chemical suits must be independently tested by a notified body.
Each item of PPE comes with manufacturer instructions covering use, limitations, storage, and replacement criteria.
EN standards define performance levels — for example, EN 388 rates glove resistance to cut, abrasion, and puncture.
Using non-certified PPE on a construction site is a breach of the Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 2022.
Employers must provide PPE that is appropriate, correctly sized, and compatible with other items worn.
PPE standards are updated periodically — buyers should confirm the latest applicable standard version.

Assured protection	CE and UKCA marks confirm PPE has been independently tested to protect against the specific hazards it claims to address.
Legal requirement	The PPE Regulations 2022 require employers to provide certified PPE that meets current standards.
Correct selection	Understanding PPE standards and performance ratings ensures the right level of protection is selected for each hazard.

Don't

Check all PPE carries a valid CE or UKCA mark before issuing it to workers
Read the manufacturer instructions to understand the PPE limitations and use conditions
Select PPE rated to the correct standard and performance level for the hazard present
Ensure Category III PPE such as harnesses and RPE has a notified body certificate
Provide PPE that fits correctly and is compatible with other items the worker wears
Replace PPE that is damaged, expired, or no longer meets the certified standard
Keep records of PPE issue, inspection, and replacement for each worker
Train workers on the correct use, storage, and care of their certified PPE
Source PPE from reputable suppliers who can provide certification documentation
Check that PPE standards referenced on certificates are current and not withdrawn

DON'T use PPE that does not carry a valid CE or UKCA mark
DON'T purchase PPE from unverified sources that may supply counterfeit products
DON'T ignore the manufacturer's instructions for use, care, and replacement
DON'T assume all gloves or helmets are equal — check the EN standard and rating
DON'T modify PPE in any way that may compromise its certified performance
DON'T continue using PPE beyond its recommended service life or expiry date
DON'T mix PPE components from different manufacturers without checking compatibility
DON'T issue one-size-fits-all PPE — correct fit is essential for protection
DON'T store PPE in conditions that could degrade the materials such as direct sunlight
DON'T accept PPE without documentation — ask for the declaration of conformity

See also: PPE Awareness and Responsibilities | Correct PPE for the Task

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