From the Secretary’s desk
June 25th 2009 The BSIF has a busier programme than usual this summer following the launch of three major initiatives at the recent Safety & Health Expo. From a BSIF point of view, it was particularly pleasing to see the development of this exhibition with more exhibitors, a busy "feel" throughout the three days and a stronger international influence, all considerably enhanced by the exhibition's move to a new location in halls 1 and 2.
The launch of the BSIF's Registered Safety Supplier scheme, designed to signpost quality suppliers of safety products and equipment as part of the Federation's drive to combat the increasing incidence of counterfeit and illegal products in the UK market, was well received. The developing relationship between the BSIF and the HSE stimulated the "Clean Air? - Take Care!" and the "It's in your hands" awareness campaigns, both of which were featured at the exhibition. The former, mounted in conjunction with other industry stakeholders to improve user understanding of the need for respiratory protection, was launched at the exhibition and this campaign will be rolled out during the next few months, combining with the new Fit2Fit accreditation scheme for respiratory fit-testers, also launched at the show.
The BSIF Safety Awards ceremony took place in front of a packed audience in the Innovation Hub at the Safety Expo, a new feature this year. Nine awards were presented, six for product innovation, three for safety service and one for safety excellence.
In addition to taking three campaigns and an accreditation scheme to market, the next few months will include preparations for the BSIF Networking Day in September, significant activity to support the exporting ambitions of UK companies exhibiting at A+A in Dusseldorf in the autumn and an increase in focus on the development of the new PPE Directive, likely to be in force early in the next decade. Readers wishing to comment on BSIF activities or requiring additional information are welcome to contact us - through the editor please.
Geoff Hooke
Secretary General to the BSIF More articles from BSIF Enterprise: | 
