The Vertical Recommendation for Use (RfU) documents have been published, which contain important updates in the European Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) area as of May 2025. These new versions, prepared by the European Coordination of Notified Bodies, include a number of standards, particularly in the area of head protection equipment, and are implemented in line with the PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425.
In particular, the updates cover critical details on industrial hard hats, add-on safety features, test procedures, durability and safety criteria. The May 2025 release includes recommendations that provide clarity on key standards such as EN 397, EN 812, EN 443, as well as concrete solutions on many technical issues, for example, lateral deformation testing, chin strap retention, flame resistance, molten metal splash testing.
These RfU updates aim to improve consistency in the testing and certification of PPE products. In particular, clear standards are introduced for critical parameters such as the way tests are conducted and the positioning of test equipment. In addition, important regulations have been made on product marking and user information.
For industry stakeholders, these developments are of great importance to ensure the compliance of products with the European market. Manufacturers and testing laboratories can improve product safety and minimize risks in marketing processes by conducting appropriate tests and assessments in accordance with the new RfUs.
The May 2025 update aims to contribute to strengthening occupational health and safety standards for workers by taking the quality and reliability of Personal Protective Equipment to the next level. All parties in the industry are encouraged to carefully review and implement these new recommendations.
For More Information: Personal Protective Equipment – Vertical Recommendation for Use sheets
