Top 20 Companies Producing Safety Equipment: A Complete Guide

Safety equipment has become indispensable to workplace and personal environments worldwide. As industries and safety standards evolve, the need for reliable, high-quality safety gear remains constant. Companies involved in producing safety equipment play a vital role in safeguarding lives, whether it’s for construction workers, healthcare providers, firefighters, or everyday consumers. In this article, we’ll explore the Top 20 leading companies dedicated to producing safety equipment, focusing on their unique contributions, global reach, and impact on safety standards.

1. Why is Safety Equipment Essential?

Safety equipment is the first defense against accidents and injuries in hazardous environments. From construction sites to laboratories, proper safety gear, including helmets, gloves, respiratory protection, and eye shields, is critical for reducing the risk of harm. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines, alongside other international standards, emphasize the importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect workers and enhance operational productivity. With the rise of automation and industrialization, the demand for effective safety solutions is more significant than ever.

1. What is Safety Equipment?

Safety equipment refers to protective gear, devices, and tools designed to minimize risks, prevent injuries, and ensure the safety of individuals in hazardous environments. These can include helmets, gloves, masks, protective clothing, and other safety tools.

2. Where is Safety Equipment Used?

Safety equipment is used across multiple industries and environments, including:

1. Construction Sites – Helmets, gloves, and safety harnesses.
2. Manufacturing & Industrial Plants – Fire-resistant clothing, safety glasses, and gloves.
3. Healthcare Sector – PPE kits, masks, and gloves.
4. Firefighting – Fire-resistant suits, breathing apparatus, and helmets.
5. Chemical Industry – Protective suits, gas masks, and gloves.
6. Automotive Industry – Safety glasses, helmets, and gloves.
7. Military & Defense – Bulletproof vests, helmets, and tactical gear.
8. Oil & Gas Sector – Fire-resistant clothing, hard hats, and respiratory protection.
9. Sports & Outdoor Activities – Helmets, knee pads, and goggles.
10. Laboratories – Gloves, safety goggles, and protective coats.

2. Types of Safety Equipment

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Gloves, helmets, and safety glasses.
2. Fire Safety Equipment – Fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and smoke detectors.
3. Electrical Safety Equipment – Insulated gloves, rubber mats, and voltage detectors.
4. Chemical Safety Equipment – Gas masks, respirators, and chemical-resistant suits.
5. Traffic Safety Equipment – Reflective vests, traffic cones, and barriers.
6. Fall Protection Equipment – Harnesses, lifelines, and lanyards.
7. Respiratory Protection – N95 masks, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
8. Hearing Protection – Earplugs, earmuffs, and noise-canceling headsets.
9. Eye Protection – Safety goggles, face shields, and welding helmets.
10. First Aid Equipment – Bandages, splints, and defibrillators.

1. How is Safety Equipment Used?

1. Worn by individuals to protect against specific hazards (helmets, gloves, goggles).
2. Installed in workplaces for fire, chemical, and electrical safety (extinguishers, warning signs).
3. Used in emergency response to mitigate risks (fire blankets, gas masks).
4. Mandated by government regulations to ensure workplace safety compliance.

3. Materials Used for Manufacturing Safety Equipment

1. Polycarbonate – Used in helmets, goggles, and shields for impact resistance.
2. Kevlar & Nomex – Used in fire-resistant clothing and bulletproof vests.
3. Rubber & Latex – Used for gloves, mats, and electrical insulation.
4. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) – Used for hard hats and face shields.
5. Leather – Used for gloves and protective footwear.
6. Neoprene – Chemical-resistant suits and gloves.
7. Stainless Steel Mesh – Used in cut-resistant gloves.
8. Fiberglass – Used in fire-resistant blankets and insulation materials.
9. Aluminum & Other Metals – Used in safety barriers and scaffolding.
10. Plastic & PVC – Used in safety cones, goggles, and raincoats.

4. Importance of Safety Equipment

1. Reduces workplace injuries and fatalities.
2. Ensures compliance with safety regulations.
3. Protects workers from hazardous materials and conditions.
4. Increases efficiency and productivity by preventing accidents.
5. Enhances emergency preparedness and response.
6. Prevents long-term health issues (hearing loss, lung diseases).
7. Maintains a safe and professional work environment.
8. Saves lives in dangerous occupations (firefighters, construction workers).
9. Reduces liability and legal issues for businesses.
10. Improves overall public safety and well-being.

5. Benefits of Safety Equipment

1. Prevents injuries and fatalities.
2. Ensures compliance with safety laws.
3. Reduces compensation costs for businesses.
4. Enhances productivity by creating a safe work environment.
5. Improves confidence and morale among workers.
6. Minimizes downtime caused by workplace accidents.
7. Protects against hazardous substances and conditions.
8. Increases lifespan of employees in dangerous fields.
9. Ensures readiness in emergency situations.
10. Promotes a culture of safety and responsibility.

1. Average Annual Production of Safety Equipment

The global safety equipment market is vast, with millions of units produced annually. According to industry reports:

• PPE Market Value (2024-2025): Estimated at $80+ billion.
• Annual Helmet Production: Over 50 million units.
• Glove Production: More than 100 billion pairs annually.
• Face Masks: Exceeded 10 billion units during pandemic years.
• Fire Safety Equipment: Over 5 million fire extinguishers are produced yearly.

2. Usage of Safety Equipment: Past, Present, and Future

• Past: Basic safety gear, often made of metal or leather, limited use in workplaces.
• Present: Advanced PPE, regulatory compliance, and industry-specific protective equipment.
• Future: Integration of smart safety equipment (IoT-enabled helmets, AI-driven hazard detection, self-adjusting PPE).

6. Pros & Cons of Safety Equipment

Benefits of safety equipment

1. Pros

1. Reduces workplace accidents and injuries.
2. Ensures compliance with labor and safety laws.
3. Enhances worker productivity by providing protection.
4. Prevents long-term health issues (e.g., lung disease, hearing loss).
5. Improves emergency preparedness.
6. Increases worker confidence and morale.
7. Minimizes financial loss from medical expenses and lawsuits.
8. Promotes a culture of workplace safety.
9. Ensures continuity in high-risk industries.
10. Reduces insurance costs for businesses.

2. Cons

1. Can be expensive for small businesses.
2. Some equipment can be uncomfortable or restrictive.
3. Requires proper training to use effectively.
4. Over-reliance may lead to negligence in other safety practices.
5. Frequent maintenance and replacement add costs.
6. Improper or low-quality equipment may give a false sense of security.
7. Certain materials degrade over time, requiring careful storage.
8. Some PPE (e.g., respirators) can cause breathing difficulty.
9. Non-compliance among workers due to discomfort or negligence.
10. Not all hazards can be fully mitigated by safety equipment alone.

7. Top 20 Companies Producing Safety Equipment Globally

Safety equipment is essential for protecting individuals across various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and healthcare. Below is an overview of ten leading safety equipment manufacturing companies, including their location, founding year, staff strength, and a selection of their key products.

1. MSA Safety Incorporated

MSA Safety Incorporated, established in 1914, is headquartered in Pennsylvania, United States. The company specializes in developing and distributing safety equipment for sectors such as construction, fire service, oil and gas production, military, and chemical production. MSA focuses on providing protection to both individuals and infrastructures from hazardous conditions.

expertmarketresearch.com

Key Products:

• Hard Hats
• Respirators
• Gas Detection Instruments
• Thermal Imaging Cameras
• Fall Protection Equipment
• Fire Helmets
• Protective Eyewear
• Hearing Protection Devices
• Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA)
• Head and Face Protection Gear

2. 3M Company

Founded in 1902, 3M is a diversified technology company based in Minnesota, USA. The company ventured into safety equipment manufacturing decades ago and is now recognized as a leading force in personal protective equipment (PPE), producing life-saving solutions like N95 respirators, protective eyewear, and hearing protection devices.

lioncare.net

Key Products:

• N95 Respirators
• Protective Eyewear
• Hearing Protection Devices
• Protective Coveralls
• Reusable Respirators
• Hard Hats
• Reflective Materials
• Safety Vests
• Fall Protection Equipment
• Chemical Splash Goggles

3. Radians, Inc.

Radians, Inc., established in 1997, is a leading manufacturer of personal protective equipment (PPE) based in Memphis, Tennessee. The company focuses on providing high-quality safety products to industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.

lioncare.net

Key Products:

• Safety Glasses
• Hearing Protection
• High-Visibility Clothing
• Hard Hats
• Gloves
• Cooling Products
• Rainwear
• Protective Footwear
• Face Shields
• Disposable Respirators

4. ABS Safety GmbH

Founded in 2003, ABS Safety GmbH is headquartered in Kevelaer, Germany. The company specializes in products and services that enhance workplace safety, particularly in the construction industry. Their offerings include safe roof access and fall protection systems, and they provide training and seminars for companies and individuals.

inven.ai

Key Products:

• Fall Protection Systems
• Anchorage Points
• Lifeline Systems
• Guardrails
• Safety Barriers
• Personal Protective Equipment
• Rescue Equipment
• Training Programs
• Inspection Services
• Consulting Services

5. Beta Safety Systems Limited

Established in 2006, Beta Safety Systems is based in Farnborough, Hampshire, United Kingdom. The company provides fall protection and roof access systems, offering equipment and solutions to ensure safety at heights. They focus on meeting industry standards and provide inspection services and data sheets for compliance.

inven.ai

Key Products:

• Fall Arrest Systems
• Roof Access Systems
• Safety Harnesses
• Lanyards
• Anchorage Connectors
• Rescue Equipment
• Horizontal Lifelines
• Vertical Lifelines
• Guardrails
• Training Services

6. Honeywell International Inc.

Honeywell International Inc., founded in 1906, is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. The company operates in various sectors, including aerospace, building technologies, and safety and productivity solutions. Honeywell’s safety products are widely used in industrial safety, healthcare, and construction.

fortunebusinessinsights.com

Key Products:

• Respirators
• Face Shields
• Safety Gloves
• Protective Eyewear
• Hearing Protection
• Fall Protection Equipment
• Gas Detection Devices
• Protective Footwear
• High-Visibility Apparel
• Hard Hats

7. Ansell Limited

Established in 1929, Ansell Limited is headquartered in Richmond, Australia. The company specializes in protective gloves and industrial protective clothing, serving industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and oil and gas. Ansell’s products are designed to protect workers against chemicals, cuts, and other workplace hazards.

lioncare.net

Key Products:

• Chemical-Resistant Gloves
• Cut-Resistant Gloves
• Disposable Gloves
• Surgical Gloves
• Protective Sleeves
• Aprons
• Coveralls
• Lab Coats
• Respirators
• Face Shields

8. DuPont

DuPont, founded in 1802, is headquartered in Wilmington, Delaware, USA. The company is renowned for its comprehensive range of personal protective equipment (PPE), including industry-leading brands like Tyvek, Tychem, Nomex, and Kevlar. DuPont’s products are widely used across various industries to ensure workplace safety.

jcblhandtools.com

Key Products:

• Tyvek Protective Apparel
• Tychem Chemical Protection Suits
• Nomex Flame-Resistant Clothing
• Kevlar Cut-Resistant Gloves
• Cleanroom Apparel
• Protective Footwear Covers
• Sleeve Protectors
• Lab Coats
• Hooded Coveralls
• Chemical Splash Aprons

9. Kimberly-Clark Professional

Kimberly-Clark Professional, a division of Kimberly-Clark Corporation founded in 1872, is based in Irving, Texas, USA. The company provides essential safety and hygiene products, including gloves, respirators, and protective clothing, serving various industries globally.

dursafety.com

Key Products:

• Safety Gloves
• Respirators
• Protective Gowns
• Coveralls
• Lab Coats
• Face Masks
• Protective Eyewear
• Hearing Protection
• Hand Sanitizers
• Surface Wipes

10. Lakeland Industries, Inc.

Founded in 1982, Lakeland Industries is headquartered in Decatur, Alabama, USA. The company is a leading manufacturer of disposable protective clothing, such as coveralls and lab coats, designed to protect workers in various industries, including chemical, healthcare, and firefighting.

dursafety.com

Key Products:

• Disposable Coveralls
• Chemical Protective Suits
• Firefighting Gear
• Arc Flash Protective Clothing
• High-Visibility Apparel
• FR Clothing
• Cleanroom Apparel
• Lab Coats
• Aprons
• Sleeve Protectors

11. Bullard

Established in 1898, Bullard is based in Cynthiana, Kentucky, USA. The company specializes in manufacturing safety equipment, including hard hats, fire helmets, and respiratory protection devices, serving industries such as firefighting, industrial safety, and healthcare.

ronixtools.com

Key Products:

• Hard Hats
• Fire Helmets
• Respirators
• Face Shields
• Thermal Imaging Cameras
• Headlamps
• Cooling Vests
• Escape Respirators
• Welding Helmets
• Hearing Protection

12. Uvex Safety Group

Uvex Safety Group, founded in 1926, is headquartered at Würzburger Str. 181-189, 90766 Fürth, Germany. The company employs over 2,600 staff members and produces approximately 50 million safety products annually. Uvex specializes in personal protective equipment (PPE) for various industries.

Key Products:

• Safety Glasses
• Safety Helmets
• Ear Protection (Earplugs & Earmuffs)
• Safety Gloves
• Respiratory Protection Masks
• Protective Workwear
• Safety Shoes & Boots
• Face Shields
• Anti-Fog Safety Goggles
• Fall Protection Harnesses

13. MSA Safety Incorporated

Founded in 1914, MSA Safety Incorporated is headquartered in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, USA. The company specializes in the development, manufacture, and supply of safety products that protect people and facility infrastructures. MSA’s products are used by workers in various industries, including construction, mining, and emergency services.

dursafety.com

Key Products:

• Respirators
• Hard Hats
• Gas Detection Equipment
• Fall Protection Systems
• Thermal Imaging Cameras
• Fire Helmets
• Protective Eyewear
• Hearing Protection
• Head Protection
• Breathing Apparatuses

14. Radians, Inc.

Established in 1996, Radians, Inc. is based in Memphis, Tennessee, USA. The company manufactures a comprehensive line of personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, high-visibility apparel, and hearing protection. Radians is known for its commitment to quality and innovation in safety solutions.

expertmarketresearch.com

Key Products:

• Safety Glasses
• Hearing Protection
• High-Visibility Apparel
• Safety Gloves
• Cooling and Warming Gear
• Headgear
• Rainwear
• Lens Cleaning Accessories
• Disposable Foam Earplugs
• Hard Hats

15. JSP Safety

Founded in 1964, JSP Safety is headquartered in Oxfordshire, United Kingdom. The company specializes in innovative and high-quality safety products, including head, eye, face, and respiratory protection. JSP’s products are used globally across various industries to ensure worker safety.

Key Products:

• Industrial Safety Helmets
• Respiratory Protection Masks
• Face Shields
• Ear Defenders
• Safety Goggles
• High-Visibility Clothing
• Fall Protection Equipment
• Traffic Management Solutions
• Spill Control Products
• Workplace Safety Signs

16. Delta Plus Group

Established in 1977, Delta Plus Group is based in Apt, France. The company designs, manufactures, and distributes a comprehensive range of personal protective equipment, including head, hand, and body protection. Delta Plus serves clients in over 90 countries, ensuring worker safety across various industries.

Key Products:

• Safety Helmets
• Protective Eyewear
• Hearing Protection
• Respiratory Masks
• Safety Gloves
• Protective Footwear
• Workwear
• Fall Protection Equipment
• High-Visibility Clothing
• Knee Pads

17. Drägerwerk AG & Co. KGaA

Founded in 1889, Drägerwerk AG & Co. KGaA is headquartered in Lübeck, Germany. The company specializes in medical and safety technology products, including respiratory protection, gas detection, and personal protective equipment. Dräger’s safety solutions are utilized in industries such as firefighting, mining, and chemical processing.

Key Products:

• Gas Detection Devices
• Respiratory Protection Equipment
• Breathing Apparatuses
• Firefighting Helmets
• Thermal Imaging Cameras
• Escape Devices
• Alcohol and Drug Testing Devices
• Diving Equipment
• Ventilation and Monitoring Systems
• Gas Detection Tubes

18. Alpha Pro Tech, Ltd.

Established in 1983, Alpha Pro Tech, Ltd. is based in Markham, Ontario, Canada. The company develops, manufactures, and markets a range of disposable protective apparel, building supply products, and infection control products. Alpha Pro Tech serves industries such as healthcare, construction, and food processing.

Key Products:

• Disposable Protective Clothing
• Face Masks
• Bouffant Caps
• Shoe Covers
• Lab Coats
• Coveralls
• Isolation Gowns
• Surgical Masks
• N95 Particulate Respirators
• Protective Hoods

19. Moldex-Metric, Inc.

Moldex-Metric, Inc., founded in 1980, is headquartered in Culver City, California, USA.
The company specializes in hearing protection and respiratory safety equipment, serving industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Moldex is known for its innovative designs, comfort, and compliance with global safety standards.

Key Products:

• N95 and N100 Respirators
• Disposable Face Masks
• Reusable Half Mask Respirators
• Earplugs (foam and reusable)
• Earmuffs
• Gas and Vapor Respirators
• Valved Respirators
• Fit Testing Kits
• Welding Respirators
• Dust Masks

20. SHOWA Group

SHOWA Group, founded in 1954, is headquartered in Himeji, Japan.
It is a global leader in protective hand solutions, offering high-quality gloves for industrial, chemical, and medical use.
SHOWA is committed to sustainability, innovation, and worker safety, providing eco-friendly and durable gloves.

Key Products:

• Chemical-Resistant Gloves
• Cut-Resistant Gloves
• Nitrile Disposable Gloves
• Heat-Resistant Gloves
• Oil-Resistant Gloves
• Food-Safe Gloves
• Latex-Free Gloves
• Heavy-Duty Industrial Gloves
• Anti-Static Gloves
• Grip-Enhanced Gloves

8. Standards to Observe While Purchasing Safety Equipment

When buying safety equipment, ensure compliance with industry standards to guarantee effectiveness and worker protection. The key standards include:

• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration, USA) – Regulations for workplace safety equipment.
• ANSI (American National Standards Institute) – Sets performance standards for PPE.
• ISO (International Organization for Standardization) – Global standards for PPE design and performance.
• EN (European Norms) – European safety equipment standards.
• NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, USA) – Certification for respirators and masks.
• CE Marking (Conformité Européenne) – Indicates compliance with European safety requirements.
• CSA (Canadian Standards Association) – Safety regulations for Canadian industries.
• NFPA (National Fire Protection Association, USA) – Standards for fire-resistant and emergency equipment.
• ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) – Material and product safety testing.
• IS (Indian Standards – Bureau of Indian Standards, BIS) – Safety standards for protective gear.

9. Best and Cheapest Safety Equipment Recommendations

The best safety equipment combines affordability with high quality, ensuring proper protection while being cost-effective. Some of the top affordable options include:

1. Best Budget Safety Equipment:
   • N95 Masks: 3M 8210 N95 Respirator (Reliable & Affordable)
   • Safety Glasses: DEWALT DPG82-11C Anti-Fog Safety Goggles
   • Work Gloves: SHOWA 370 Nitrile-Coated Gloves
   • Hard Hats: Pyramex Ridgeline Full Brim Hard Hat
   • Ear Protection: 3M PELTOR Optime 98 Earmuffs
   • High-Visibility Vest: JKSafety 9-Pocket Reflective Vest
2. Best Value for Money:
   • Respirators: Honeywell North 7700 Series Half Mask
   • Cut-Resistant Gloves: Ansell HyFlex 11-518 Gloves
   • Safety Shoes: Timberland PRO Men’s 6” Steel Toe Boots
   • Fall Protection: Guardian Fall Protection Velocity Harness

For cost-effective options, consider bulk purchases, generic brands, and safety gear certified by OSHA and ANSI.

10. Replacement Duration for Safety Equipment

Safety equipment should be replaced based on manufacturer recommendations, wear and tear, and exposure to hazards. General replacement guidelines include:

• Hard Hats: Every 5 years (or sooner if cracked or impacted)
• Safety Gloves: After visible wear, tears, or chemical exposure
• Respirators & Masks: Disposable masks – after 8 hours; Reusable respirators – replace filters as per manufacturer guidelines
• Safety Glasses: Replace when scratched, damaged, or worn out
• Earplugs: Disposable – after each use; Reusable – every 3-6 months
• High-Visibility Clothing: Replace when faded or torn
• Fall Protection Equipment: Inspect regularly and replace harnesses every 5 years or after a fall

Regular inspections ensure equipment remains in optimal condition.

11. International Manufacturers’ Recommendations for Safety Equipment

Leading global manufacturers provide specific guidelines for safety gear maintenance and replacement:

• 3M: Replace N95 masks after single use; inspect respirators regularly.
• Honeywell: Safety glasses should be replaced every 2 years or sooner if scratched.
• Ansell: Chemical-resistant gloves should be replaced after visible wear or contamination.
• DuPont: Tyvek suits should be discarded after hazardous exposure.
• MSA Safety: Fall protection gear should be checked before every use and replaced every 5 years.
• Bullard: Hard hats should be replaced every 5 years, suspension every 12 months.

Following manufacturer guidelines ensures maximum safety and longevity.

12. Summary on Safety Equipment

Safety equipment is essential for protecting workers from workplace hazards, preventing injuries, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Personal protective equipment (PPE) includes respirators, safety helmets, gloves, goggles, and high-visibility clothing.

Key points to remember:

• Industry Compliance: Ensure PPE meets standards like OSHA, ANSI, ISO, and CE.
• Regular Replacement: Inspect and replace safety gear based on usage and manufacturer recommendations.
• Cost-Effective Choices: Affordable PPE options include brands like 3M, Honeywell, and Pyramex.
• Best Practices: Conduct routine maintenance and proper storage to maximize durability.

Investing in high-quality safety

13. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the questions with answers on safety equipment:

1. What is the primary purpose of safety equipment?

Answer: The primary purpose of safety equipment is to protect individuals from injuries, hazards, and accidents while performing tasks or being in potentially dangerous environments.

2. What is Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

Answer: PPE refers to protective gear designed to safeguard the wearer’s body from injury or infection. It includes items like helmets, gloves, safety glasses, ear protection, and respirators.

3. Why are hard hats important in construction sites?

Answer: Hard hats protect workers from head injuries caused by falling objects, debris, or accidental bumps with equipment and structures.

4. What type of gloves should be used when handling chemicals?

Answer: Chemical-resistant gloves, typically made of materials like nitrile, neoprene, or latex, should be used to prevent skin contact with harmful substances.

5. When should safety goggles or glasses be worn?

Answer: Safety goggles or glasses should be worn when there is a risk of eye injury from flying debris, chemical splashes, or harmful light exposure such as during welding.

6. What is the purpose of a high-visibility vest?

Answer: High-visibility vests enhance the visibility of workers, especially in low-light or high-traffic areas, reducing the risk of accidents.

7. What is the use of ear protection devices like earplugs or earmuffs?

Answer: Ear protection devices reduce exposure to harmful noise levels, preventing hearing damage or loss in noisy environments like factories or construction sites.

8. What kind of safety equipment is needed for working at heights?

Answer: Safety harnesses, lanyards, and anchor points are essential for preventing falls when working at heights.

9. Why are fire extinguishers considered safety equipment?

Answer: Fire extinguishers are used to quickly control or extinguish small fires, preventing them from spreading and causing harm.

10. What role do respirators play in safety?

Answer: Respirators protect the wearer from inhaling harmful substances such as dust, fumes, gases, or biological contaminants, ensuring safe breathing in hazardous environments.

14. Conclusion

In today’s industrialized world, safety equipment is a non-negotiable aspect of occupational health. The companies discussed above are at the forefront of this industry, dedicated to developing innovative and effective safety solutions. From healthcare to construction, these leaders are meeting the evolving demands of workplace safety with products that are not only protective but comfortable and accessible. Reliable safety equipment minimizes accidents, enhances productivity, and builds trust in organizational safety protocols, a benefit that resonates.