FAQ's
PPE Standards & Certifications - Understand how your PPE is tested and rated.
Where Have the Cut 5 Gloves Gone?
Where Have the Cut 5 Gloves Gone?
The Cut 5 rating is no longer part of the updated EN388 glove testing system. Cut resistance is now measured using new methods and shown as levels A to F. Read more.
What changed in the EN388:2016 glove safety standard?
What changed in the EN388:2016 glove safety standard?
EN388:2016 introduced updated testing methods for mechanical protection gloves, including changes to how cut resistance is measured. The updated standard also includes a new puncture resistance test and the use of letters (A–F) instead of just numbers. Read more.
How are chemical gloves tested under new standards?
How are chemical gloves tested under new standards?
Chemical gloves are now tested using updated EN374 standards, including revised permeation tests, classification symbols, and clearer labelling. Read more.
What is the EN511 cold handling glove test?
What is the EN511 cold handling glove test?
EN511 tests gloves for protection against cold hazards: convective cold, contact cold, and water permeability. Read more.
What does EN397 mean for safety helmet standards?
What does EN397 mean for safety helmet standards?
EN397 defines helmet safety for impact, penetration, and heat resistance. Read more.
What is EN361 and how are full body harnesses tested?
What is EN361 and how are full body harnesses tested?
EN361 tests harnesses for strength, buckle performance, and fall protection. Read more.
What is EN ISO 11612 for heat and flame resistant clothing?
What is EN ISO 11612 for heat and flame resistant clothing?
What is EN ISO 11612 for heat and flame resistant clothing? Read more.
Choosing the Right PPE and Workwear - Guides to help you select the right protection for your needs.
How do I choose gloves for hypodermic needle handling?
How do I choose gloves for hypodermic needle handling?
Look for gloves with puncture-resistant materials like aramid fibres. Read more.
How do I know if gloves protect against heat and flames?
How do I know if gloves protect against heat and flames?
Look for gloves tested to EN407 with ratings for heat, flame, and molten splash. Read more.
How do I choose the right safety footwear?
How do I choose the right safety footwear?
Choose boots meeting EN ISO 20345 with relevant features. Read more.
How do I choose the correct hearing protection?
How do I choose the correct hearing protection?
Select based on noise level and comfort — ear plugs or defenders. Read more.
How do I select the right disposable chemical overall?
How do I select the right disposable chemical overall?
Check for type classification (Type 3-6) depending on risk. Read more.
What gloves should I use when working with chemicals?
What gloves should I use when working with chemicals?
Use EN374-certified gloves matched to the chemicals. Read more.
Can I get custom-branded workwear with embroidery or print?
Can I get custom-branded workwear with embroidery or print?
Yes — logos and prints are available. Read more.
Sizing Guides - Make sure your PPE and footwear fit perfectly.
How do I find my glove size?
How do I find my glove size?
Measure the circumference of your hand just below the knuckles and match it to our chart. Read more.
What size safety footwear should I order in UK, EU, or USA sizes?
What size safety footwear should I order in UK, EU, or USA sizes?
Use our conversion chart to compare sizes across regions. Read more.
Delivery, VAT & Bulk Orders - Useful information for ordering and shipping.
What are your delivery options and times?
What are your delivery options and times?
Standard and express UK delivery available, usually within 1–3 working days. Read more.
Do you deliver outside the UK?
Do you deliver outside the UK?
Yes — we ship internationally. Read more.
Do I pay VAT on safety boots and helmets?
Do I pay VAT on safety boots and helmets?
Some items may be zero-rated depending on use. Read more.
Do you offer large order or bulk discounts?
Do you offer large order or bulk discounts?
Yes, contact our sales team for a custom quote.
Can public sector organisations place purchase orders?
Can public sector organisations place purchase orders?
Yes — we accept POs from NHS, schools, and councils. Read more.
Brand, Materials, and SustainabilityLearn more about the products we supply and our environmental efforts.
What are Kevlar® gloves and what are they used for?
What are Kevlar® gloves and what are they used for?
Kevlar® gloves offer cut and heat resistance for industrial tasks. Read more.
What is the TRECOS ecological standard?
What is the TRECOS ecological standard?
It ensures PPE meets environmental sustainability standards. Read more.
What is Portwest’s ethical cotton initiative with CmiA?
What is Portwest’s ethical cotton initiative with CmiA?
CmiA supports sustainable cotton farming and fair labour. Read more.