New Awards To Reward Innovation In Workwear

SATRA has announced the launch of the SATRA PPE Innovation Awards which will form a major part of the Professional Clothing Awards 2012, organised by the Workwear & Corporate Clothing Show.

To reflect the major growth market of personal protective equipment (PPE), the Professional Clothing Awards 2012 will contain the brand new SATRA PPE Innovation awards. These awards will recognise the designers and manufacturers of PPE products, components and processes that push boundaries in technical innovation. They are open to anyone in the supply chain, which could include an individual inventor or entrepreneur, an SME or a large multi-national corporation.

Event organiser, Yvette Ashby commented "SATRA's brand is recognised and respected in over 70 countries and we look forward to working with SATRA on these exciting new awards, which we are opening up to international businesses from all over the world."

In an earlier format in 2009 and 2010, the Professional Clothing Awards rewarded buyer-supplier partnerships for their exceptional dedication and innovation displayed in the development of top-to-toe uniforms for corporate clothing, workwear and PPE.

SATRA has contributed to considerable advances in products industries over the years. One better-known example is the boot worn by the British Expedition in conquering Mount Everest in 1953. Another is the heat-setting process, which revolutionised footwear production by reducing production times and achieving consistent and high levels of shape retention.

SATRA's CEO, Austin Simmons commented: "SATRA remains committed to investing in technical innovation to help companies, large and small, established and start-up, to produce the products that future markets will demand. We are very excited by the awards initiative," he continued, "and look forward to seeing it grow in future years to the benefit of workwear, PPE and corporate clothing industries and the wearers themselves."

Entries will be judged by a panel of independent experts in January 2012 with the winners of the Professional Clothing Awards announced at a gala dinner and dance at the Workwear and Corporate Clothing Show on 17th April 2012, at the Ricoh Arena E.ON Lounge.

Winners will be presented with crystal trophies and the overall winner of the SATRA PPE Innovation of the Year will also receive the opportunity to undertake discounted research, testing or certification at SATRA Technology Centre, or the possibility of creating a partnership to develop a product or products for commercial exploitation.

Details about relevant dates and access to the entry form and guidance notes, can be found at www.satra.co.uk/rewardinnovation7

SATRA is accredited as a Notified Body under the European PPE Directive for EC Type examination and certification, final product quality control and quality of production for most types of PPE including safety footwear, clothing, gloves, and head, fall and eye protection.

SOURCE: SATRA