Shaping the future of PPE

Nanotechnology, smart textiles and hybrid materials will increase the effectiveness and use of personal protective equipment (PPE), prompting more sales in this sector, according to a report from Textiles Intelligence, Wilmslow, U.K. According to the International Labour Organization, more than 2 million people die of work-related accidents and diseases each year, and for every dollar spent on PPE the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) estimates $4 are saved in costs from work-related health care and productivity losses. China, which has the largest workforce in the world, will increase its use of PPE as it develops a modern industrial economy and will be a strong market. Another factor spurring PPE growth will be tougher regulations worldwide to protect workers from dust, fire, chemicals and radiation.