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Arco backs MP Emma Hardy's call for PPE inclusivity

19 March 2024

Arco has given its support to MP Emma Hardy as she urged Government ministers to ensure inclusivity in workplace PPE.

In the House of Commons last week, the MP for Hull West & Hessle tabled the Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Protected Characteristics) Bill, which would put the onus on employers to ensure PPE provided to people with certain protected characteristics is suitable for their needs.

As part of Arco's public affairs work, which aims to influence the national health and safety agenda, we supported Ms Hardy in bringing the issue to Parliament.

Arco fully supports the drive for more inclusivity in PPE. Our core purpose is to help keep people safe at work, and this means all people. Ill-fitting PPE is not just uncomfortable, it can also be unsafe.

Addressing the House of Commons, Ms Hardy said: "momentum for change is building" and referred to Arco's support for the campaign.

Emma Hardy said:

"Arco, based in my constituency of Hull West & Hessle, a leading UK provider of health and safety products and PPE, recognises the need for change and is fully supportive of the campaign to improve inclusivity in PPE."

Mims Davies, the Minister for Disabled People, Health and Work, said the Government "entirely supports the assertion that personal protective equipment issued to workers should be inclusive and meet individual needs".

Read the full transcript of the debate at Inclusive PPE - UK Parliament and learn more about the Chartered Institute of Building's PPE that Fits campaign.

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