What are the top 5 things to keep in mind while buying personal protection gear in KSA as a business
Here are the five most important things you need to keep in mind when buying personal protection gear (PPE) for your business in KSA:
1. Regulatory compliance
o Ensure the PPE meets Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO) requirements.
o Check if the products carry CE, ANSI, or ISO certifications recognized locally.
o Verify if the supplier is approved by Saudi Ministry of Commerce or Saudi Aramco (if you work in oil, gas, petrochemicals).
2. Workplace-specific risks
o Match PPE to your industry risks: fire-retardant coveralls for oil and gas, high-visibility gear for logistics, chemical-resistant gloves for manufacturing.
o Do a risk assessment before purchasing to avoid mismatched or underperforming equipment.
3. Quality and durability
o Harsh climate in KSA (heat, sand, humidity) requires durable materials that withstand long use.
o Prioritize brands with proven performance in Middle Eastern industrial sectors.
o Avoid low-cost imports that degrade quickly under heat and heavy use.
4. Worker comfort and fit
o PPE must be breathable and ergonomic to encourage consistent use, especially in high-heat environments.
o Offer different sizes and adjustable fits to ensure safety and reduce complaints.
o Test samples with workers before large orders.
5. Supply chain and service support
o Choose suppliers with local stock, fast replacement cycles, and after-sales support.
o Check warranty, return policies, and availability of spare parts (e.g., helmet liners, mask filters).
o Ensure consistency of supply to avoid downtime during audits or inspections.
