Great Southern Safety: Made to protect hardworking Aussies

After seeing so many endure supply chain issues during the pandemic, Great Southern Safety recognised the importance of safeguarding high quality PPE for hardworking Australians.

Launching in early 2024, Great Southern Safety’s new range of P2 respirators are designed and made in Australia with the local trade industry in mind.

For many, the pandemic highlighted issues with relying on imported materials and equipment. Increased demand and supply chain interruptions caused many product shortages, including PPE (personal protection equipment) and respiratory protection equipment from overseas. The team at Great Southern Safety identified an opportunity in the market to develop Australian Made respirators – made locally to avoid any such delays.

“After COVID, we saw how important it was to increase increasing local manufacturing capabilities,” said Marketing Manager, Mike Haliday. “We wanted to make something that was safeguarded from currency fluctuations, shipping delays or quality issues. Great Southern Safety is incredibly proud to offer our Australian Made products to the Australian workforce.”

Great Southern Safety launched its range of P2 respirators early this year. The P2 respirators (or P2 masks) are made to protect users against mechanically and thermally generated particles, such as general dust, asbestos, silica dust or bushfire smoke. Suitable for use in woodworking, stone masonry, plastering and insulation applications, and come in two styles – a non-valved cup style and a valved cup style.

Shaped with a snug fit that minimises contact with the nose and mouth, they reduce moisture build-up, increase breathability, and allow the wearer to talk more easily. They can also be worn with glasses or goggles without fogging up – keeping workers safe as they wear the respirators for long hours onsite.

Manufactured to Australia’s high standards of quality, the respirators are CMI certified to meet Australian & New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1716:2012.

“We’ve had great feedback from customers that our masks are one of the most comfortable on the market. A common issue for other masks is that they fog up glasses, which causes issues for visibility,” said Mike. “Having a comfortable PPE product gives workers and businesses peace of mind, since they can be worn for many hours without being a nuisance, and this all improves workplace safety.”

“Manufacturing our products in Australia means that we’ve been able to address the concerns of Australian customers directly. We know that silicosis is a grown concern for workers, and wanted to be at the forefront of addressing the silicosis issue in Australia. We’re proud to make an Australian Made product with P2 protection to filter out the dangers of inhaling silica dust.”

Great Southern Safety’s manufacturing facility is located in Campbellfield, Melbourne. As a team of manufacturers, they know the importance of giving Aussie workers the reassurance of their safety in the long term.

“We want people to see our masks on the shelf and trust that they are made to the high standards of quality that they deserve. That’s why it was an easy decision to use the iconic Australian Made logo. Seeing that green and gold kangaroo logo gives customers confidence that they can feel safe when using a product made by Australians, for Australians.”

“We’re passionate about not only being Australian Made, but purchasing Australian Made,” said Mike. “It’s important that we generate more income for the national economy, keep our money within Australia, and support local jobs, business and industry.”

The newly launched P2 respirator range is just the beginning, with a wider range of PPE on the horizon.

Find out more at greatsouthernsafety.com.au