Most construction sites require, as a minimum, safety footwear to EN ISO 20345, head protection to EN 397 and hi-vis clothing to EN ISO 20471. Depending on the work activities and the site-specific risk assessment, teams may also need gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, respiratory protection and fall arrest equipment.

Requirements are set by the PPE at Work Regulations 1992 (as amended) and CDM 2015.

PPE selection should follow the site-specific risk assessment. Identify the hazards relevant to each task, then choose products certified to the applicable EN standard for each hazard type. Where multiple PPE types are worn together, check that they are compatible and do not compromise each other's protection.

CMT's trade team and the EDGE B2B Portal can assist with repeat supply once a specification is confirmed.

EN ISO 20345 is the principal standard for safety footwear in the UK. The minimum requirement is a 200J toecap. Common classifications include S1P (anti-static, anti-penetration, closed heel) and S3 (waterproof, anti-penetration, closed heel), with S3 typically required for outdoor construction and civil engineering environments.

A site-specific risk assessment determines the correct classification. View the safety footwear range.

Glove selection depends on the hazard. EN 388 covers mechanical risks such as cut, abrasion, tear and puncture. EN 407 applies to heat and flame hazards. EN ISO 374 covers chemical and microbiological risks. Check the performance levels against the specific hazard, and confirm that the selected gloves are compatible with any other PPE being worn.

Manufacturer guidance and the site risk assessment should inform the final specification.

Fall arrest equipment is typically required where the risk assessment identifies a risk of falling from height that cannot be adequately controlled by collective measures such as edge protection, barriers or working platforms. Harnesses, lanyards and anchorage systems should be selected in line with EN 361, EN 355 and EN 362 as applicable.

Any fall arrest system should form part of a planned fall protection programme that includes rescue arrangements. Requirements depend on the specific task, working height and site conditions. View the fall arrest and restraint range.

Safety glasses protect the eyes from impact and particles from the front and sides but are not sealed around the face. Goggles provide a closer fit or sealed barrier, offering additional protection against liquid splashes, fine dust, vapour and chemicals where glasses alone may not provide sufficient coverage.

Both should comply with EN 166 or the current applicable eye-protection standard. Selection depends on the type of hazard identified in the task risk assessment.

PPE replacement intervals are set by manufacturer guidance, the relevant EN standard and the results of regular inspection. PPE that has absorbed an impact, shows visible damage or wear, or has reached its stated service life should be replaced without delay.

Regular inspection and planned replenishment through a trade account helps maintain consistent PPE standards across site teams. Contact the CMT team to discuss repeat supply and account options.

CMT is a BSIF Registered Safety Supplier. BSIF registration means CMT has formally committed to supplying only tested and certified products that meet the relevant safety standards, providing additional assurance for buyers sourcing PPE for site teams, projects and repeat supply.

CMT's supplier accreditations are company-level assurance and do not replace individual product certification. Buyers should still verify the relevant EN standard, declaration of conformity and product documentation for each item. View CMT's full accreditations.