Hunter Apparel Solutions Limited (Hunter) based in Northern Ireland is a leader in high-performance PPE and sustainable safety solutions, has proudly taken home two major honours at the 2025 British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) Safety Awards. The company’s innovations, FLEXGUARD® and Deconology®, were awarded the Product Innovation Award and Safety Solution Award respectively, in both cases taking the top prize in the UK.
“Winning 2 UK National awards is such an honour. The BSIF’s independent judging panel includes some of the UK’s top H&S professionals and having their vote of confidence that our solutions can lead in R&D in the UK really matters to me and the wider Hunter team. This will inspire further future R&D at Hunter to help us retain this sector leading position”. From Simon Hunter Esq, M.B.E., CEO of Hunter Apparel Solutions Limited
These national recognitions not only affirm Hunter’s place at the forefront of the UK safety industry but also mark a defining moment in a legacy nearly 90 years in the making.
Hunter is a fourth-generation, family-owned business established in 1936. Hunter has evolved from a bespoke tailoring specialist into a pioneer in technology-driven professional clothing and personal protective equipment (PPE).
It is a true family business, energetically led by CEO Simon Hunter Esq, M.B.E., and with Simon’s wife Roisin working in the finance department and their son Jude, fourth generation, working in Business Development along with Simon’s brother Jeff Hunter as Chief Contracts Director. Along with the family who run the business they are supported by a senior leadership team and over 55 staff members.
FLEXGUARD® An Innovative solution to a series of problems
Winner of the Product Innovation Award, FLEXGUARD® is the world’s first fully hinged blunt-trauma exoskeleton designed specifically for Public Order Officers. Traditional blunt trauma protection has seen little innovation in two decades, often falling short in comfort, fit, and sustainability.
FLEXGUARD® changes that entirely. Engineered with next-generation materials and design principles, it offers true protection for hinge joints—an area typically under protected in legacy gear—without compromising mobility or comfort. No matter the wearer’s anthropometrics FLEXGUARD® fits all body types and genders, supporting a truly inclusive approach to PPE for Public Order Officers.
Manufactured in the UK, FLEXGUARD® ensures resilient domestic supply, supporting local manufacturing jobs, and delivers a lower full-life cost compared to imported alternatives.
It is more than protective equipment—it is a revolutionary advancement in public order safety, purpose-built to empower those who protect us in high-risk situations.
Deconology®: The time for half-measures is over for maintaining Firefighters PPE and Hunter are leading the fight to protect those who risk everything for us.
The Safety Solution Award was awarded to Deconology®, Hunter’s LCO₂-based decontamination service that dramatically improves the safety and sustainability of firefighter PPE care.
Traditional washing methods remove just 15–40% of harmful toxins and degrade fabric over time. Deconology® removes 99%+ of carcinogens, PFAS, heavy metals, and biological hazards—without water, harsh chemicals, or excessive energy use.
The process also uses recycled industrial CO₂, contributing to a circular economy and aligning with the UK and Ireland’s sustainability goals.
This technology is already in use by progressive fire services and is a cornerstone in Hunter’s mission: to make firefighter cancer an unacceptable outcome.
Hunter Protect Those Who Protect Us
Hunter remains the longest-surviving clothing and textile company in the region, combining traditional tailoring expertise with modern robotics, advanced materials, and eco-conscious engineering.
Hunter is now entering its 90th year of business. Hunter stands as a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of a family-led business whilst pushing boundaries to create world leading innovation. Commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community engagement, ensures Hunter’s legacy extends far beyond its products, embedding lasting values and fostering a clear vision for a brighter, sustainable future.
For more information please visit: https://www.hunterapparelsolutions.com/deconology/
About the Author
Hunter Apparel Solutions
Hunter began as a bespoke tailoring specialist in 1936, but has evolved into a pioneer in the creation and management of technology driven professional clothing. Over the years our professional clothing designs have changed how businesses in a wide range of sectors look, but the efficiency of HunterCARE® and HunterPAC® have transformed the way many more operate.
Professional apparel from Hunter is different because we will make our software work uniquely for you.
This is work, smart, wear.
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