Behind the standards: how BTTG® tests PPE

This year at The Emergency Services Show, our Protecting the Protectors stage digs into key discussions about contaminants, inclusive PPE sizing, and how police can be protected in riot situations.

With that in mind, I was keen to find out how PPE used by emergency services is tested and certified, so I spoke with Ruby Fernie from BTTG®, a UK-based organisation specialising in testing, certification, and auditing for protective clothing. Their work spans firefighters, police, and other emergency responders, helping manufacturers ensure that their products meet UKCA, CE, and other international standards.

At BTTG®, the testing process starts with a careful review of a manufacturer’s Technical File. “Our Certification Team carefully reviews each applicant’s Technical File against the information provided, identifying exactly what’s needed to meet the relevant standards,” Ruby explained. Once the assessment is complete, manufacturers receive clear guidance on the required testing. “And if they choose, our state-of-the-art laboratories can carry out this work, helping them move confidently towards achieving the compliance needed to place their products on the market.”

I was particularly interested in the tests carried out on riot protection gear, especially given recent news that some police officers are being forced to buy their own uniforms due to poor standards. BTTG® evaluates equipment to BS 7971-10, which looks at physical properties such as strength, durability, chemical resistance, and performance after repeated laundering. “The standard also demands that garments retain flame-retardant and heat-resistant qualities even after repeated washing cycles, ensuring long-term reliability in the field,” Ruby said. The testing also covers resistance to hazardous materials. “Ultimately, every element of this standard is about one thing: maximising protection for the wearer against the multiple risks faced in riot situations.”

For firefighting PPE, BTTG® works with structural, wildland and rescue equipment, helping manufacturers demonstrate compliance with UK and European standards. Their work with UK fire services has been extensive, and several services now specify BTTG® as the only accepted testing and certification body for their projects.

One of the most interesting aspects of BTTG®’s testing is the use of thermal manikins, RALPH (which stands for Research Aim Longer Protection against Heat, made in 1992) and SOPHIE (System Objective Protection against Heat In an Emergency, 2006). These allow assessment of how an entire protective ensemble performs when worn.

“While traditional heat and flame tests provide valuable baseline data, the manikins go further, revealing how the fit and design of a garment directly affect protection.”

For example, a tunic stretched tightly across the shoulders may show reduced thermal performance compared to looser-fitting sleeve areas. This kind of insight helps manufacturers refine designs to ensure garments work as intended in real-world conditions.

I also asked how BTTG® integrates real-world scenarios into their testing. “All our testing and Certification work is done to pre-published standards. These standards are drawn up by experts that sit on committees. The committee discusses the inherent risks for the associated standard and draw up the required specifications needed to ensure safety when wearing the supplied PPE,” Ruby said.

BTTG® maintains multiple accreditations to demonstrate competence and impartiality. They are also recognised as UK Approved Body 0338 and hold FIA accreditation, while in Europe, Shirley® (a division of the company) is accredited by INAB to ISO 17065:2012.

PFAS materials, widely used in firefighter PPE, pose both protective and environmental challenges. “A key pain point in the area of PFAS is its incredibly versatile use against many risks such as fire, heat and rain, yet it is its protective properties from PFAS which also poses a risk to human and ecological health,” Ruby explained. Known as ‘forever’ chemicals, they do not degrade easily in the environment. Research has also indicated that they can lead to a range of health issues, including decreased fertility, a higher risk of certain cancers and immune system suppression.

BTTG® carries out PFAS testing at their Shirley® division, and also applies the PPE supplement of OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100. “This edition of the standard has set limit values ensuring that items maintain their protective abilities, while also having limit values which pose less risk to human and ecological health,” Ruby told me.

The organisation also provides forensic expertise. Ian Strudwick, Technical Textiles Specialist and one of the only textile expert witnesses in the UK, provides independent analysis and reporting on textiles for civil cases, including quality disputes and contract issues. These services are carried out under strict confidentiality.

BTTG® offers guidance on navigating the regulatory landscape. “Our PPE team at BTTG® is comprised of numerous experts in the field. Additional to supporting our clients through their journey to compliance through testing, certification and auditing, we provide an extra level of support through our Club Membership Programme,” Ruby explained. Seminars cover common challenges such as regulatory updates, differences between EU and UK standards, and understanding their implications for businesses.

Recent innovations include the Darmstadt Abrasion Tester, which simulates high-speed falls to evaluate protective garments such as motorcycle or racing apparel. BTTG® is also upgrading manikin testing to ISO 13506 standards, so both RALPH and SOPHIE meet the same standard.

“With both RALPH and SOPHIE updated to the new standard, we’re taking protective clothing assessments to a whole new level of precision and safety.”

Ruby Fernie, BTTG®

Talking to the team at BTTG® highlighted the detailed work behind PPE testing and certification. From reviewing technical files and carrying out laboratory and manikin-based tests, to evaluating new materials and supporting regulatory compliance, the organisation provides manufacturers with the data and assurance they need to deliver protective equipment suitable for operational use in emergency services.

The company has been behind many key innovations since they started out of two converted houses in Leeds with just over £4586.16 in the bank in 1918. With over 100 years of PPE testing behind them, as well as being behind the first breathable fabric (Ventile, produced by Shirley® for the Ministry of Defence in 1940), the first flammability tests in 1965 at the Shirley® Institute, and even providing fabric testing services for the Championships at Wimbledon, their remit is broad and fascinating, and it was a pleasure to find out more about what they do on a daily basis to keep emergency services teams safe.

You can meet the BTTG® team at The Emergency Services Show on stand 5/E234, and join in the conversations about PPE testing at sessions on the Protecting the Protectors stage.