NEBOSH funds research into protective equipment for African women

NEBOSH has reported that it is funding a year-long study by the Society of Women in Safety, Health and Environment – Africa (SOWSHE-A) to examine the risks associated with personal protective equipment (PPE) used by African women.

The project will focus on how ill-fitting PPE, designed primarily for men, may increase the risk of injury for women across various work settings in Africa.

The research will include data gathering, demonstrations, simulations and community campaigns to raise awareness about anthropometric differences and their impact on safety.

Research will address risks linked to poorly fitted PPE

NEBOSH explained that PPE is considered the last defence against occupational hazards, and if it does not fit correctly, it can endanger the user.

The organisation stated that issues such as oversized clothing causing entanglement, loose footwear increasing the likelihood of slips, and poorly fitted headwear failing to provide adequate protection, are among the concerns that the project aims to address.

The study is expected to provide insights into the health and safety needs of African women and promote more inclusive PPE design.

Project aims to improve data on PPE for diverse users

NEBOSH Social Development Manager Mariyah Mandhu said: “There is limited international data related to women’s protective equipment, and even less so for women from different ethnic backgrounds.

“Our funding will enable the health and safety and wider business communities to understand the challenges and barriers of current PPE, with a longer-term view of creating inclusive PPE design and production practices.

“Ultimately, this will improve the safety and health of these women in the workplace.”

Mandhu stated that the partnership with SOWSHE-A aligns with NEBOSH’s goals of addressing diversity gaps in health and safety research.

SOWSHE-A highlights safety and gender equity goals

SOWSHE-A Founder Funmi Adegbola said: “We are thrilled to have NEBOSH’s support in advancing this important initiative.

“Their commitment to workplace safety and health aligns perfectly with our goal of ensuring that African women are equipped with the right PPE to protect their well-being.

“This collaboration is not only vital for improving the safety of women workers, but it also strengthens the movement for greater gender equity in the workplace.”

Adegbola added that the initiative will contribute to building awareness around inclusive workplace practices.

African women’s PPE study receives NEBOSH funding: Summary

NEBOSH is funding a year-long research project led by the Society of Women in Safety, Health and Environment – Africa (SOWSHE-A).

The research focuses on the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) by African women.

NEBOSH stated that ill-fitting PPE can increase the risk of harm in the workplace.

SOWSHE-A will conduct research, public demonstrations, simulations and campaigns during the project.

NEBOSH Social Development Manager Mariyah Mandhu said there is limited international data on women’s PPE.

Mandhu stated that the project aims to support more inclusive PPE design and production.

SOWSHE-A Founder Funmi Adegbola said the initiative aligns with goals for safety and gender equity.

The project is based in Africa and targets black African women in particular.