How/where do I locate independent sales reps who sell health and
safety equipment to large company's in the Bay Area (greater San Jose
and San Francisco areas)?

One of the best sources for identifying good sales reps is by asking
your existing customers and/or prospects. Even if thye are buying from
a rep which handles products competitive to yours, lines change as do
the sales reps. Building an independent rep sales channel is both
challanging and rewarding. Some of these are covered at:
www.pro-repsales.com/Why_Reps.htm