Securing Supply of Sanitisers
The demand for hand sanitisers and surface disinfectant products has skyrocketed due to the ongoing pandemic.
Manufacturers of biocidal products have faced significant challenges to their supply chains because of the shortage of raw materials and key ingredients such as alcohols.
Many distilleries have shifted their production lines to make hand sanitisers to help fill the gap and meet this unprecedented rising demand.
However, not all hygiene products found on the market are certified, authorised by the HSE or comply with the British standards and regulations
As a UK-based employer, you have a legal duty to ensure a safe working environment for you employees. In the current pandemic, this includes implementing new measures such as providing adequate hand sanitising and surface disinfecting products to prevent the spread of infection in the workplace.
Here are few points to consider before sourcing new products:
1. Evaluate the current products in the workplace.
a. Do you have sufficient supply?
b. Are they effective against viruses?
c. Do they comply with the new British standards and regulation?
2. Take time to clearly understand the market and fully research the products.
a. Identify the different products available and work out their strength and weaknesses
b. Know the laws and regulations, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website provides information about the different regulations related to biocidal products.
c. Think about the total cost not just the price, the surge in demand has driven the prices up variably.
3. Involve and engage employees and sub-contractors.
a. Communicate with employees and involve them in decision making.
b. Pay attention to specific needs (such as allergies and health concerns)
4. Identify and build relationship with key manufacturers, distributers, or suppliers.
a. Choose a manufacturer that is reputable in the industry and who can produce quality products in high volumes that comply with British standards and regulations.
b. Favour UK-based manufacturers, this will give you a greater assurance regarding the quality and safety of products and a superior level of ongoing customer service and will save you time and money.
c. Think about the long-term, maintaining clear and consistent communication is crucial to building a good relationship with manufacturers or suppliers.
5. Think about the environmental impact.
a. Sustainable and responsible sourcing is all about considering all aspects of the supply chain, from promoting safer, ethical, and fair practices to reducing the environmental impacts.
b. Find out what materials and packaging are used and inquire about other alternatives such as refill or reusables.