IOSH examines PPE fit issues for women

The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has published a blog on International Women’s Day, outlining the challenges women continue to face in workplace safety.

Olivia Barrett, TechIOSH and a health and safety consultant, highlighted ongoing concerns such as ill-fitting personal protective equipment (PPE), physical strain in manual handling tasks, and gender bias in health and safety policies.

Barrett noted that PPE such as helmets, gloves, boots, and body armour has traditionally been designed for men.

This results in women having to use equipment that is either too large or too small, which can compromise both comfort and safety.

Ill-fitting PPE increases the risk of injuries, including strains and accidents caused by discomfort.

She suggested that manufacturers and employers prioritise the development of PPE tailored for women, considering differences in body shape, weight distribution, and size.

Expanding the range of available PPE sizes and designs would ensure all workers have access to properly fitting safety equipment.

Physical demands and manual handling concerns

Manual handling tasks often do not account for physical differences between men and women, according to Barrett.

Jobs requiring heavy lifting or prolonged standing may assume uniform physical capability among all workers, placing women at greater risk of musculoskeletal injuries.

She highlighted that in sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing, women may be required to lift heavy equipment or patients without adequate support.

This increases the likelihood of back, neck, and joint injuries, especially when workplaces do not provide appropriate ergonomic solutions.

To address these risks, Barrett recommended that employers assess the physical demands of tasks and implement adjustments where necessary.

This could include mechanical lifting aids, ergonomic training, and workspaces designed to accommodate a diverse workforce.

Gender bias in workplace health and safety policies

Barrett also pointed to gender bias in workplace health and safety policies.

She noted that many policies have been shaped by male-dominated workplaces and often fail to address health concerns unique to women, such as reproductive health risks and the effects of menopause.

She explained that some workplaces do not provide adequate guidance on managing risks related to pregnancy, exposure to hazardous chemicals, or menstruation-related discomfort.

Additionally, a lack of awareness and support can leave women without clear protocols for addressing gender-specific health concerns.

Barrett called for more inclusive health and safety training and policies that recognise these issues.

She emphasised the importance of creating safety programmes that reflect workforce diversity and provide clear procedures for managing gender-specific health risks.

Addressing harassment and underrepresentation in leadership

IOSH’s blog also highlighted the impact of workplace harassment on women’s safety.

Barrett noted that women in male-dominated industries often experience higher rates of harassment, discrimination, and bullying.

She stated that these issues contribute to stress, anxiety, and burnout, affecting both mental health and job performance.

She recommended that employers establish clear anti-harassment policies, promote a culture of respect, and provide mental health support services.

Creating a work environment where employees feel safe and supported would help mitigate these challenges.

Another issue raised was the underrepresentation of women in safety leadership roles.

Barrett noted that decision-making positions in workplace safety are still largely male-dominated, which can result in policies that overlook or dismiss women’s concerns.

To improve representation, she suggested that companies encourage and support women in safety leadership roles through mentorship programmes, career development initiatives, and gender diversity in hiring.

Ensuring women’s involvement in safety decision-making would contribute to more comprehensive workplace policies.

IOSH addresses gender-specific workplace safety issues: Summary

IOSH has published a blog to mark International Women’s Day, discussing workplace safety challenges affecting women.

Health and safety consultant Olivia Barrett highlighted concerns including ill-fitting PPE, manual handling risks, gender bias in safety policies, workplace harassment, and the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles.

Barrett noted that PPE is often designed for men, leaving women with improperly fitting safety gear that can lead to injuries.

She also pointed out that manual handling tasks frequently fail to account for physical differences, increasing the risk of musculoskeletal strain.

Gender bias in workplace policies was another issue raised, with Barrett stating that many safety protocols do not address reproductive health risks or other gender-specific concerns.

She also highlighted the impact of workplace harassment and the need for clear anti-harassment policies.

IOSH called for manufacturers, employers, and industry leaders to address these challenges by developing inclusive policies, improving access to properly fitting PPE, and promoting female representation in safety leadership roles.