Personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for the safety and health of workers in various industries. However, not all PPE is designed to fit the needs and preferences of women, who make up 70% of the health workforce and 30% of the manufacturing industry in South Africa.
In this blog, we discuss some of the challenges and solutions for improving PPE for women.
One of the main challenges is that PPE is often based on outdated anthropometric data from male military personnel collected in the 1950s and 1970s. This means that PPE may not fit well for women’s body shapes and sizes, leaving gaps, or causing discomfort. For example, masks may be too big for women’s faces, increasing their stress and infection risk. Gowns and other body coverings may be too long or loose, hindering their mobility and performance.
Another challenge is that PPE does not take into account women’s specific needs during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause.
By improving PPE fit for women, we can enhance their safety, health, dignity, and performance in the workplace. We can also contribute to gender equity and empowerment in the health workforce and beyond. Finding PPE fit for women is not only a matter of convenience or comfort; it is a matter of human rights and social justice.
Some examples of suitable PPE available for women are:
Women-specific PPE, such as jackets, trousers, and gloves. There are different styles and colours available to suit your preferences and needs.
Footwear options available for women in fashionable designs, extending across 2 sole shapes, tailored for women with narrow, and standard-shaped feet and a range of safety wear with 3 unique cuts: standard, extended and maternity.
Stylish women’s steel-toe safety shoes and boots.
Hi-vis vests, polo shirts, tunics, and trousers. A range of sizes and designs to fit your body shape and size.
Respirators, gloves, and goggles, specifically designed for women and their individual needs.
If you have specific needs and require help, we are here to source and supply!