UKCA Marking and PPE: What You Need to Know
There have been many changes since the UK left the EU in early 2020. In this time, businesses have had to adapt to new regulatory frameworks, including transitioning from CE marking to the UK Conformity Assessed marking, also known as UKCA.
What does UKCA mean for workplace PPE?
It’s important to note that employers' responsibilities have not changed since the introduction of UKCA PPE marking.
All PPE provided to staff must meet legal safety standards under the Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations of 2022, which states that all PPE must:
- Meet the essential health and safety requirements of UK PPE regulations
- Be fully tested by an approved body
- Carry the UKCA marking on the garment label, packaging, or documentation
- Include clear instructions for safe use
- Be supplied with a Declaration of Conformity
This is especially targeted at employers within high-risk industries, such as construction, transport, utilities, and manufacturing. Supplying employees with certified clothing is essential for both compliance and employee safety.
What are the current UKCA guidelines and deadlines?
The UK is still currently within the transition period as of late 2025. With this in mind, CE marking is still valid for products sold within Great Britain, which means that businesses can choose between CE or UKCA marking.
The UK government has confirmed that CE marking will continue to be recognised indefinitely for most product categories except medical devices. However, the UKCA mark remains as the UK’s designated conformity symbol, and is likely to become more relevant as the transition progresses.
What we know about the UKCA guidelines as of 2025:
- CE marking is valid indefinitely within Great Britain (except for medical devices)
- Manufacturers supplying to Great Britain can opt to use UKCA marking instead
- Products placed on the market in Great Britain exclusively may carry the UKCA mark only
- Products placed in both Great Britain and EU markets must continue to meet both sets of requirements
- Should PPE have a UKCA mark? Yes. Any PPE first placed on the market in Great Britain must carry UKCA marking or a valid CE marking during the transition period
What should businesses do next?
CE marking is still recognised in Great Britain. However, this doesn’t mean that this can’t change in future. With this in mind, we recommend that UK businesses requiring PPE stay proactive and take the following steps:
1. Audit your current PPE stock
Carry out an audit to check your PPE for labels and documentation showing CE or UKCA markings. If you find any uncertified garments, carefully dispose of and replace them. Take a look at our trusted uniform destruction service for more information.
2. Find a trusted PPE supplier
Working with PPE garment specialists like our team at phs Besafe can offer peace of mind when it comes to compliance. We’ll ensure that your garments meet the required standards, include the correct certifications, and are maintained with care through our industrial laundry service.
3. Stay updated
Keep an eye out for government updates regarding the transition from CE marking to UKCA marking. Regulatory divergence is common, especially during extended transition periods, so it’s essential that affected businesses stay informed.
Stay compliant, protected, and reassured with phs Besafe
At phs Besafe, we want to make sure that all businesses have the right PPE to keep employees protected and comfortable, while remaining compliant during this transition from CE to UKCA marking.
We’re proud to offer workwear garments that meet rigorous testing standards, as well as specialist workwear laundry services to support compliance throughout your garment’s lifecycle.
No matter your PPE needs, our team is on hand to help you navigate the UKCA marking transition with confidence. For more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch today.