Welcome to the autumn issue of the BSIF newsletter. I’d like to begin by thanking everybody who attended our Networking Day at the Arden Marriot Hotel & Country Club on Thursday 29th September. The golf tournament, Segways and other outdoor games on offer encouraged us all to take time out of our hectic schedules to catch up and have fun. It was great to see so many new faces and I look forward to welcoming you all again next year.
I will also take this opportunity to once again congratulate the winner of our Outstanding Contribution Award, Mike Clayton of the HSE/HSL and the winner of our Commitment to Federation Activities Award, Kevin Warren of BTTG. Please read on in this newsletter to find out more on why Mike and Kevin were the deserving winners of this year’s prizes.
Our relaunch of the Registered Safety Suppliers Scheme continues to progress and from July 2017, all BSIF members selling or marketing PPE will be required to become members of the scheme and be willing to submit products for random testing to ensure compliance with current standards. All members have been sent the correspondence that fully explains these changes but if you do have further questions do not hesitate to get in touch.
On Sunday 2nd October, Theresa May made her first leader’s speech at the Conservative Party Conference and announced her intention to begin the Brexit process and invoke Article 50 in March 2017. We welcome her renewed commitment to enhancing worker’s rights and protecting the current safety and health standard in the UK. You’ll find the BSIF’s response to this speech in “What’s Topical?”.
Finally, we are delighted to welcome on board our new membership manager, Paul Manning. He boasts over 10 years experience in the PPE and workwear industry and is truly committed to supporting you and raising industry standards. Read more about Paul and his expertise in this newsletter.
Enjoy!