PPE for women: what employers need to do better

A recent global study has shown that PPE for women is still a major problem. According to the research, 94.1% experience fit issues. As a result, 20.3% suffer injuries and 36.9% have experienced a near miss due to the lack of proper personal protective equipment. But how can employers help reduce these numbers and ensure women are properly protected? In this article, I share six recommendations.

The figures above come from a global study conducted by Safety Rack. This American non-profit organization focuses on improving personal protective equipment for women across different industries. In addition to conducting research, the organization also advises companies on how to better deal with PPE for female employees. Below, I share six of their recommendations, including my own thoughts and experiences.

PPE for women requires a gender-specific approach

Companies need to introduce a gender-specific PPE policy. This means workplaces should always provide PPE designed for the female body. Companies should also carry out regular evaluations to ensure the available PPE continues to fit the entire workforce properly.

In my opinion, this forms the basis of proper PPE. It sounds logical that employers should provide suitable PPE for everyone at work, but in practice, companies still rely too heavily on unisex products. That is why countries such as Canada (partly), the United States (construction sector) and the UK increasingly make this a legal requirement. Honestly, that is quite sad, because protecting employees should be the responsibility of employers, not governments.

Focus on suppliers that offer PPE for women

Ask PPE suppliers specifically for brands that offer products for women. Preferably choose companies that can dress women from head to toe in properly fitting personal protective equipment. Focus especially on suppliers that work with female fit designs.

Two years ago, I wrote an article about a study among PPE buyers. The research showed that 83% of buyers believe women should be taken into account, but only 1% actually did so. Of course, it is good to focus on PPE suppliers that truly specialize in women, but in practice many companies are already happy if a female fit is available at all. However, as more governments introduce laws regarding gender-specific PPE, companies will likely focus more on suppliers specialized in this area.

Unisex is not unisex

Refuse PPE marketed as unisex. In most cases, manufacturers developed these products with the male body in mind, which means they fail to protect women properly.

I have said it for years: unisex PPE and workwear are one of the biggest misconceptions within this industry. It simply does not exist. You cannot develop PPE or workwear that fits everyone properly. But as more women entered industries traditionally dominated by men, the term “unisex” suddenly became popular. It is a cheap way to provide everyone with workwear and PPE without truly considering safety or comfort. Meanwhile, studies repeatedly show that unisex solutions can be dangerous.

Even within the fire service, where women have been active since 1818, many departments still use unisex equipment. In the article “Research shows unisex firefighting gear is dangerous for women” you can read more about this issue.

Pink PPE belongs in the trash

In my opinion, PPE that is only pink but not actually designed for the female body does not belong in the workplace.

Have you ever heard the phrase “Pink it and shrink it”? It is a well-known slogan in the world of gender-specific PPE. Some suppliers still paint PPE pink and then sell it as a women’s version. Meanwhile, they change nothing about the fit or about how the product actually protects women. In my opinion, products like that belong straight in the trash.

Work together with PPE manufacturers

Employers should work more closely with PPE manufacturers so they can improve fit and sizing. This helps create products that better match different body types.

From experience, I know companies often claim their workwear and PPE were not made for women. But that is simply a matter of doing proper research, because suitable products absolutely exist. And if contracts or other reasons force companies to buy from a specific supplier, then it becomes even more important to discuss fit issues. The more feedback manufacturers receive, the better they can improve their products.

Ask for feedback about PPE

Companies should regularly ask employees for feedback about PPE. They should then include this feedback in safety audits and risk management processes.

In my opinion, this is the most important recommendation of all: ask for feedback and actually do something with it. Purchasing PPE is not a one-time task that you can simply tick off a list. People work and perform in this equipment every single day. That is why PPE should become a standard part of evaluation moments within organizations. Let’s be honest: asking a few extra questions each year may cost a little more time, but truly listening can ultimately prevent accidents and staff turnover.

Want to read more about PPE for women and workplace safety?

Also check:

• This is how menstruation affects your personal protective equipment
• Why governments should get involved in women’s workwear
• Employer refuses to provide PPE in the correct size

Greetings,

Aileen