The health and safety landscape is evolving as fast as ever as we take our first steps into 2025. With sustainability, innovation, and operative engagement at the forefront, the year ahead promises significant advancements in workplace safety. Here are some of the key trends which could shape the industry in 2025, with a particular focus on hand protection:
Paperless User Information Sheets
The drive towards sustainability shows no sign of slowing down. In 2025, we believe (and hope) that paperless user information sheets will take centre stage. By digitalising essential product guidance, companies not only reduce waste but also make safety data more accessible than ever. Whether accessed via QR codes or apps, digital sheets ensure workers get up-to-date, multilingual information wherever they are - helping businesses stay green while keeping safety first.
Mental Health as a Priority
The days of treating mental health as secondary to physical safety are behind us. In 2025, we expect to see mental wellbeing programmes more deeply embedded in workplace safety strategies. Building on the momentum of recent years, initiatives will focus on reducing stress, fostering open conversations, and ensuring teams feel supported. Operatives and workforces who are empowered and encouraged to take their mental health seriously are also more likely to take care of themselves in a physical sense, by taking less risks and adhering to policies.
Connecting with Young Workers
Attracting and protecting younger workers will remain a dual challenge this year. Bridging skills gaps and addressing labour shortages across multiple sectors means the health and safety industry must modernise its recruitment approach. For those entering the workforce in 2025, digital tools, wearable tech, and sustainability are non-negotiables. By embracing these elements, we can create safer work environments that also appeal to young talent, securing the future of both individual businesses and the sector as a whole – as well as every industry that the health and safety sector impacts. Which, in 2025, should be all of them!
Touchscreen-Friendly Hand Protection
Safety gloves absolutely must keep up with the wants and needs of operatives, including adapting to new technology. In 2025, touchscreen-compatible hand protection will be a must-have across industries, from manufacturing to logistics. Advanced conductive materials are paving the way for gloves that allow seamless device interaction without compromising safety, dexterity, or durability. It’s the perfect example of how innovation meets practicality to address modern workplace demands. Of course, Traffi are well-positioned should this particular prediction come to fruition – we already have an array of touchscreen compatible gloves in our range, both in disposables and our reusables, with cut ratings A through F.
Ergonomics for a Diverse Workforce
It’s well-established that workforces are ageing globally – on the whole, people are staying in employment for longer and retiring later. Gloves designed with lightweight materials, enhanced fit, and fatigue-reducing features will help ensure that workers of all ages can perform their roles safely and comfortably.
On a similar note, previously male-dominated fields such as construction and waste management have seen increases in female participation in recent years. We expect that to continue, and our industry-leading size ranges (5-12, XXS-XXXL in many gloves) will be on hand – literally – to ensure that everyone has equal access to the appropriate PPE.
Traffi’s ethos is to champion progress and lead with purpose. From sustainable innovations to forward-thinking safety strategies, we’re proud to be part of an industry that’s shaping safer workplaces and a more sustainable future.
For Hands. For Life.
If you have any questions on this topic (or any other topic), send it across to [email protected] or, alternatively, you can pick up the phone and ask us on +44 1344 207090!
