What is the PPE Forum?

The PPE Forum at SHW Live London is a dedicated space for debate, discussion, and the exchange of ideas shaping the future of personal protective equipment. Bringing together industry experts, innovators, and thought leaders, the forum explores the evolving role of PPE in modern workplace safety. 

Attendees can expect technology showcases, expert-led sessions, and live demonstrations that highlight the latest developments across a range of key topics, including: 

  • Inclusive PPE – designing protection that fits every worker, regardless of gender, size, or ability.
  • Risk Assessment – understanding how PPE selection integrates with broader safety strategies.
  • Smart PPE & Connected Devices – exploring how digital innovation is enhancing protection and monitoring in real time.
  • Regulations – staying ahead of legislative changes and compliance challenges.
  • Sustainability – examining circular design, material reuse, and the environmental impact of PPE.
  • Advanced Materials & New Technologies – unveiling the next generation of protective solutions.

 

PPE

6 core pillars of PPE Forum

1. Regulatory & Compliance Clarity

2. Procurement, Risk Assessment & Market Integrity

3. Respiratory Protection – Breathing Safely

4. Noise at Work & Hearing Protection

5. Inclusive & Fit-for-Purpose PPE

6. Innovation & The Future of PPE

Core Pillar: Regulatory & Compliance Clarity

 Understanding Market Due Diligence Requirements & Technical Product Standards

This panel will explore how to understand and assess market due diligence requirements for complex PPE supply chains, and against a changing regulatory backdrop. 

Product Standards may change with little or no support for the product users to understand what has changed. With fewer users participating in technical Standards committees, this panel will look to bridge the knowledge gap to achieve greater transparency in the supply chain, and processes required to specify, verify and risk assess PPE items. 

Core Pillar: Procurement, Risk Management & Market Integrity

Session 1 - Building Robust Tender Processes for PPE Procurement

From developing robust award criteria to conducting wearer evaluations, this panel will discuss key criteria for building robust Tender Processes to facilitate effective PPE procurement. 

Drawing on lessons learned in public and private sector procurement, the key criteria required for building robust PPE tender processes will be considered, with real-life examples of best practice. The discussion will include the development of award criteria - from evaluating cost over life, sustainability and social value elements, through to sample evaluation and trials.

Session 2 - Specifying PPE Standards & Certification Requirements

This panel will explore how understanding PPE Standards and Certification can inform robust technical product evaluation, and ensure product compliance for the contract duration. 

This panel will explore the importance of product specifications for PPE Procurement, and how to align these with evaluation of the supply chain, including what documentation can, and should, be requested from suppliers to ensure product compliance during the tender evaluation and throughout the contract life.

 

 

Core Pillar: Inclusive & Fit-for-Purpose PPE

Session 1 - Understanding the World's First Inclusive PPE Standard - BS 30417 

Drawing on real-life experience, this panel will discuss why the Inclusive PPE Standard (BS 30417) is needed - and what it means for future procurement. 

The panel will consist of those involved in the development of the Standard and those pushing for legislative change. As well as exploring gaps in information needed by industry, and offering academic perspective on challenges for inclusive PPE, it will touch on some of the other considerations for facilitating inclusive practices and cultural change. 

Session 2 - Inclusive & Fit for Form PPE - Practical Strategies for Implementing BS 30417

This panel will provide practical guidance for developing product and procurement strategies for implementing the new Inclusive PPE Standard (BS 30417). 

Guidance will include strategies for workforce engagement, specifying inclusive PPE in procurement processes, and future procurement requirements for public sector buyers.  The panel will discuss how the fit for form principle can be implemented and how manufacturers are reviewing and redesigning the products to accommodate more inclusive workforces. 

 

PPE Forum is curated by Natalie Wilson (Founder and MD) and powered by Workwear Solutions Ltd

Natalie Wilson headshot

 

Natalie Wilson is Founder & MD of Workwear Solutions International (WSI), a multi-award-winning company dedicated to enabling the uniform industry through innovative technical, design, and sourcing services. Natalie holds a Master’s degree in European Business (Distinction) from the University of the West of England, Bristol. She is also a certified SA 8000 Social & Ethical Auditor.

Natalie has become a leading voice in the development of inclusive PPE and workwear standards. Her leadership has driven advancements in making PPE accessible and effective for diverse users across industries. Recent highlights include chairing the British Standards Institution (BSI) committee that developed the world’s first inclusive PPE standard (BS 30417), and serving as the Convenor of CEN/CENELEC JTC/23 Working Group 6 - Inclusivity. 

Drawing on extensive international expertise, Natalie shares valuable lessons from the UK and European markets on implementing inclusive and sustainable practices from the perspective of design, specification development, procurement and auditing of technical workwear and PPE. Her commitment to inclusivity and excellence continues to shape the future of workwear and PPE globally.

PPE Forum is powered by:

Workwear Solutions logo

Who is it for? 

The PPE Forum is designed for health and safety professionals who are actively engaged in learning, specifying, purchasing, or influencing PPE strategy within their organisations or supply chains - as well as those seeking to expand their knowledge and expertise in PPE selection and best practice.

What does it set out to achieve? 

The forum aims to be more than a conference - it’s a dynamic showcase and collaborative hub for the entire PPE community. By combining education and innovation, it provides a platform to: 

  • Showcase the best in PPE design and technology through live demonstrations and product displays. 

  • Foster collaboration between manufacturers, safety professionals, and suppliers.

 

Exhibitors & Sponsors 

Showcase Innovation. Shape the Conversation. Build Influence. 

For exhibitors and sponsors, the PPE Forum at SHW Live offers a powerful platform to position your brand at the heart of the industry conversation. 

As an exhibitor / sponsor, you’ll engage directly with decision-makers and end users who influence PPE selection and procurement across multiple sectors. 
Demonstrate your leadership by showcasing new products, advanced materials, and smart technologies, while aligning your brand with the forum’s key themes of innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. 

Key benefits for exhibitors and sponsors: 

  • High-impact visibility among buyers, distributors, and safety professionals 

  • Opportunity to showcase products and technology in live, interactive sessions 

  • Participate in expert panels and thought leadership discussions 

  • Strengthen brand credibility and relationships within the PPE and safety community 

The PPE forum conference programme will be curated by our independent PPE steering committee, ensuring we deliver the very best education programme for the community we serve.