Cost, Compliance & Consequences: Rethinking PPE in a Volatile World

Is choosing the cheapest PPE actually costing your business more?In this episode of the Tower Supplies Podcast, we sit down with Stuart Heritage (Procurement Director) and Bruce Woodfield (Director of Sales & Marketing) to unpack the real complexities behind PPE purchasing decisions.With increasing pressure on budgets, tightening regulations and ongoing supply chain disruption, buying PPE is no longer a simple price comparison exercise. Stuart and Bruce break down why focusing purely on unit cost can lead to hidden risks, from poor compliance and reduced product lifespan to negative impacts on employee safety, satisfaction and retention.The conversation explores the importance of total cost of ownership, the role of sustainability, and why engaging end users is critical when selecting the right products. We also dive into real-world examples of cost savings, the dangers of non-compliant PPE entering the market, and how global events have reshaped supply chain strategy.This episode is packed with practical insights for procurement teams, health and safety leaders, and anyone responsible for keeping people safe at work.If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, share and leave a review to help others discover the conversation.What The Episode CoversWhy PPE decisions are more complex than price aloneThe importance of total cost of ownership vs unit costHow end-user engagement impacts safety and performanceThe role of quality, sustainability and compliance in PPEReal-world examples of long-term cost savingsThe risks of non-compliant or counterfeit PPEThe true impact of workplace injuries and poor equipmentSupply chain disruption from Covid, Suez and geopoliticsWhy partnerships and forecasting improve supply reliabilityThe challenges of tender processes and “race to the bottom” pricingChapters00:00 – Why are PPE decisions more complex today?01:10 – What do companies overlook when focusing on price?04:15 – How should businesses evaluate total cost of ownership?07:00 – How do you convince stakeholders to prioritise quality?10:45 – How can better PPE reduce long-term costs?13:20 – Why is compliance critical in PPE decisions?17:30 – Who is responsible for ensuring PPE safety?27:00 – How have global events disrupted PPE supply chains?32:00 – How can businesses improve supply chain reliability?35:30 – Why do procurement decisions require collaboration?40:00 – Are tender processes driving a race to the bottom?