NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -08/13/12)- Massive cutbacks across heavy industry would seemingly cause a decline in sales of personal protective equipment (PPE), which includes body, hand, head and respiratory protection. However, according to heavy industry and energy research publisher SBI Energy, the market grew to $12 billion in 2011, increasing 8% over the 2010 figure.

Although PPE sales growth in the U.S. (and globally) slowed as the global economy receded, unlike many industries, the PPE sector did not experience an overall decline in sales. Among the millions of jobs cut during this two-year period, a great many were in industries that are key drivers of PPE sales including manufacturing, construction, mining and public safety; yet despite these massive cutbacks -- unprecedented in decades -- overall, the PPE market managed to continue to show some sales growth.

"Total U.S. PPE sales are expected to top $13 billion in 2012," said SBI publisher Shelley Carr. "According to the report, due to expected relatively slow growth rate, sales should just barely exceed $14 billion in 2013; as the economy continues to recover, U.S. PPE sales should reach $15.2 billion in 2014. The strengthening global economy should increase the growth rate in 2015 with PPE sales in the U.S. anticipated to hit $16.7, $18.5 billion in 2016 and nearly $20.6 by 2017."

Strict regulations imposed by Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), coupled with expensive workers compensation costs, has enabled the market to remain stable through economic challenges. In addition, the report finds workplace safety blogs and U.S. government agencies are adding to a transparent workplace where concerns regarding safety supplies can be broadcasted and evaluated.

Global economic factors impacting the PPE market are presented in the report, Personal Protective Equipment in the U.S., along with data history and projections 2002-2022 in the industry categories of body protection/clothing, hand & foot, head & face, and respiratory protection. In addition, the report profiles key manufacturers, highlighting their strengths, performance, product portfolios and significant recent events. Also included are marketing, distribution and retail overview, outlining aspects of getting the products to market, and an end-user segment analysis.

About SBI EnergySBI Energy, a division of MarketResearch.com, publishes research reports in the industrial, energy, building/construction, and automotive/transportation markets. SBI Energy also offers a full range of custom research services. To learn more, visit http://www.sbireports.com.

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Personal Protective Equipment Resilient, Despite Massive Layoffs in Heavy Industry