PPE Selection Guide

Choosing the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) starts with identifying the hazard. This guide covers the key factors to consider when selecting PPE from our range, in line with the Health and Safety Executive's (HSE) hierarchy of controls and the requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 (as amended 2022).

If you are unsure which product is right for your application, contact us before purchase. Always refer to the manufacturer's product documentation for the specific performance data and limitations of each item.

Step 1 – Identify the Hazard

PPE must be matched to the actual hazard present. Common hazard categories in our range include:

Mechanical / cut risk – from blades, glass, sheet metal, and sharp edges
Chemical / dermal risk – from solvents, oils, acids, and biological agents
Thermal risk – from heat, flame, or cold environments
Respiratory risk – from dust, particulates, aerosols, or airborne pathogens
Impact / penetration risk – to the head, hands, or eyes from falling or flying objects
Electrostatic / ESD risk – in environments with sensitive electronics or flammable vapours
Noise risk – from sustained or impulsive loud noise exposure

Your risk assessment must be conducted and documented by a competent person before PPE is selected. PPE is the last resort in the hierarchy of controls — it does not eliminate the hazard.

Step 2 – Match to the Relevant Standard

Each PPE category is governed by specific EN (European Norm) or UK standards. Check that the product you select is certified to the standard relevant to your hazard:

Protective gloves (cut resistance) – EN 388:2016. Cut level is expressed as A–F (ISO 13997 TDM blade method). Higher letter = greater cut resistance. Products in our range include levels B/3 through to D/4 and above.
Protective gloves (chemical) – EN 374. Check breakthrough time and degradation rating for your specific chemical.
Protective gloves (heat/cold) – EN 407 (heat) and EN 511 (cold). Performance is rated across multiple sub-categories; match to your temperature exposure.
Respiratory protective equipment – EN 149. FFP1, FFP2, and FFP3 classes indicate the level of filtration. FFP3 (our Delta Plus M1300V2) offers the highest particulate filtration and is recommended for hazardous dusts, metal fumes, and airborne biological risk.
Eye and face protection – EN 166 (general), EN 170 (UV), EN 172 (solar). Check the optical class and field-of-use marking on the lens.
Head protection – EN 397 (industrial helmets). Optional performance markings include electrical insulation (440 V AC), very low temperature (−20 °C or −30 °C), and high-visibility. Our Delta Plus DIAMOND V helmet carries electrical insulation marking.
Hearing protection – EN 352. SNR (Single Number Rating) indicates attenuation. Our corded earplugs carry an SNR of 37 dB; use the HSE noise calculator to confirm suitability for your noise level.

PPE supplied in the UK must bear the UKCA mark (or CE mark during the current transitional period) and be accompanied by a Declaration of Conformity. Contact us if you require copies of declarations for your compliance records.

Step 3 – Consider Fit and Sizing

PPE that does not fit correctly provides reduced or no protection. Key fit considerations:

Gloves – Measure hand circumference across the knuckles and refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart. An ill-fitting glove can reduce grip, increase fatigue, and compromise cut or chemical resistance at gaps or folds.
Respiratory masks – Disposable FFP masks must be fitted and tested (fit-checked) before first use and each time they are put on. Facial hair prevents an adequate face seal; a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR) should be considered where a seal cannot be achieved.
Safety helmets – Adjust the headband and chinstrap so the helmet sits level and cannot be displaced by a light push. Helmets have an expiry date — check the manufacturer's label and retire accordingly.
Safety goggles – Ensure the frame seals around the eye socket without gaps. Where prescription glasses are worn, use over-spec goggles or consider prescription safety eyewear.
Earplugs – Corded earplugs must be rolled, inserted fully into the ear canal, and held until expanded. Incorrect insertion dramatically reduces effective attenuation.

Step 4 – Intended User and Use Environment

Consider who will be wearing the PPE and in what conditions:

Task duration – Comfort and ergonomics matter for prolonged wear. Foam-coated or knitted-backed gloves generally offer higher dexterity; PVC or latex-coated versions offer greater chemical resistance.
Environment – Wet, oily, or cold conditions affect grip and material performance. Latex-grip or foam-nitrile coatings perform well in wet/oily environments. Thermal-lined gloves are suitable for cold stores and outdoor winter work.
Dexterity requirements – Fine assembly work requires thin, form-fitting gloves (e.g. nitrile disposables or lightweight PU-coated cut gloves). Heavy-duty handling tasks need reinforced palm and fingertip protection.
Multiple hazards – Where more than one hazard is present (e.g. cut and heat, or cut and chemical), select a product certified to both standards, or use a layering approach with compatible PPE items.
ESD-sensitive environments – Use only ESD-certified gloves (EN 16350) such as the Delta Plus VENICUT32 ESD in areas where electrostatic discharge could damage components or ignite flammable atmospheres.

Step 5 – When to Request Documentation

Request product documentation from us in the following situations:

Your risk assessment requires evidence of certified performance levels
You are working under a CDM, ISO 45001, or similar management system that requires documented PPE records
You are procuring PPE on behalf of an employer and need to demonstrate due diligence under the PPE at Work Regulations
A principal contractor or client has requested confirmation of standards compliance on site
You need the Declaration of Conformity, CE/UKCA certification number, or notified body details for audit purposes

We can provide Declarations of Conformity, EN standard certification references, and manufacturer data sheets on request. Contact us with the product name and SKU/reference number.

Further Guidance

The following HSE resources provide authoritative, free guidance on PPE selection and use:

This guide is for general selection assistance only. It does not constitute legal advice or a site-specific risk assessment. Employers remain responsible for conducting their own risk assessments and selecting PPE appropriate to their specific workplace hazards, in accordance with the PPE at Work Regulations 1992 (as amended).