Can I add a logo to safety equipment without voiding certification?
Can I add a logo to safety equipment without voiding certification?
Yes—when done correctly by the manufacturer. Our brand partners perform all logo customization in-house using certified methods that maintain CE marking and safety ratings. Your logo-printed safety boots, hi-vis jackets, and other PPE remain fully certified.
Why this matters
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is certified to protect you. CE marking means the product passed rigorous testing to meet European safety standards. Improper modifications—like adding a logo in the wrong location or using incorrect methods—could compromise that protection.
What we think is fair: You want branded workwear. You also need safe workwear. These shouldn't conflict. That's why our brands only offer customization methods that preserve certification.
How brands keep your PPE certified
Before customization:
- Brands test which positions and methods don't affect safety performance
- Customization processes are included in their quality management
- Logo placement zones are pre-defined to avoid critical safety areas
During customization:
- Logos applied in certified facilities by trained technicians
- Same equipment and methods used across production runs
- Quality checks ensure certification compliance
After customization:
- Products retain original CE marking
- Safety ratings remain unchanged (S1, S3, EN 20471 Class 3, etc.)
- Full traceability maintained
What CAN'T be customized on PPE
Certain areas must remain unmodified to preserve safety:
Safety footwear:
- Toe cap area (compromises impact protection)
- Sole (affects slip and puncture resistance)
- Ankle padding zones
Hi-vis clothing:
- Reflective strips (reduces night visibility)
- Fluorescent fabric minimum areas (reduces daytime visibility)
- EN 20471 requires minimum fluorescent material per class
Work gloves:
- Palm grip surfaces
- Cut-resistant areas
- Fingertips on precision gloves
What methods are used?
Method | Best For | Maintains Certification |
|---|---|---|
Screen printing | Hi-vis, soft fabrics | ✅ Yes |
Embroidery | Jackets, caps, polos | ✅ Yes |
Heat transfer | Technical fabrics | ✅ Yes |
Sublimation | Certain synthetics | ✅ Yes |
Laser engraving | Leather, hard surfaces | ✅ Yes |
All methods our brands use are tested to not affect PPE performance.
What about aftermarket customization?
If you need proof of certification for customized items, contact us and we'll request documentation from the brand.
Examples by product type
Safety boots with logo
Your company logo can typically be:
- Embroidered on the tongue
- Printed on the heel counter
- Laser-engraved on leather uppers
Cannot be placed on: toe cap, sole, protective areas.
Hi-vis jackets with logo
Your logo can typically be:
- Printed on back yoke (above reflective strip)
- Embroidered on chest pocket
- Printed on upper arms
Cannot be placed on: reflective strips, fluorescent panels below minimum area.
Work gloves with logo
Your logo can typically be:
- Printed on back of hand
- On wristband/cuff
Cannot be placed on: palm, fingertips, cut-resistant zones.
How to order logo-printed PPE
- Select your product on droppe.com
- Choose "Add logo" option
- Upload your logo file (vector formats preferred)
- Select placement from available positions
- Review proof before production
- Receive certified products with your branding
Typical lead time: 2-4 weeks depending on brand and quantity.
Questions?
Want to customize PPE with your logo? Drop us a message or chat with us. We'll help you find products that support logo customization while maintaining full certification.
Related articles:
- How does logo printing work?
- Can I return items with logo printing?
- What file formats do you accept for logos?
Updated on: 23/12/2025
Thank you!