Why does he need dearer shoes will this help the foot infection, ask for a doctors note. Did the boots cause the problem in the first place? Tell him he gets £30 and if he wants a dearer pair to put put the rest to it unless he can prove the boots were the cause.

Morning, You cannot set arbitrary limits on what you will pay for PPE. It must be suitable, and one of the factors to consider for suitability is the person (see the guidance to the PPE regs). By all means ask for evidence that the worker has a foot infection that means they need special boots; if this is produced then you have to buy special boots. As you say SBH, it's not your budget, John

My copy of the PPE regs does not mention a limit on financial outlay as a factor to consider. As JWK says. I don't see how companies are allowed to get away with charging anything for PPE, even if an item is over their 'made-up' arbitrary budget limit. Why do safety practitioners think that's OK? Also, companies use the listed price point, and then charge staff the extra, BUT don't deduct the VAT element, which they will reclaim themselves. I have worked for a refuse collection service who specified boots nearly 3 figures - no expense spared for comfortable, supportive, waterproof, breathable, non-slip toe-tectors. These are essential tools for the job. Cheaper ones just don't do all the above, and create problems.

In my experience companies set a limit for a standard pair of boots. If employees would like a more expensive pair because they look better, then they would contribute the value of the standard pair towards with the employee paying the extra. However, if there was a genuine medical reason then an employer would pay the extra. I see that as no different to a standard hard hat, monitor or any other work item.

Asking an employee to contribute to their PPE has a financial implication when you go to claim VAT back. Effectively you are claiming back monies you have not paid and would be considered to be acting fraudulently.