International Women’s Day: The Importance of Female-Inclusive PPE
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements of women worldwide — but it’s also a time to reflect on the challenges that still need to be addressed. One of those challenges, particularly in male-dominated industries like construction, engineering, and manufacturing, is the availability of female-inclusive PPE.
For too long, women have had to make do with PPE designed for men —gear that is too big, uncomfortable, and in some cases, even unsafe. It’s not just about comfort; it’s about protection, inclusion, and feeling respected. The below images were taken for demonstration purposes only.
Why Women Need PPE Designed for Them
Historically, PPE has been designed with the male body in mind —assuming a standard size and shape that doesn’t work as easily for many women. This leads to a few key issues:
Poor Fit = Poor Protection
Oversized gloves can slip off, loose-fitting high-visibility vests can get caught in machinery, and boots that don’t fit properly can lead to trips, falls, and long-term foot problems. When PPE doesn’t fit correctly, it fails to do its job — leaving women at greater risk of injury.
Discomfort Leads to Non-Compliance
If PPE is uncomfortable, many workers are less likely to wear it consistently. Uncomfortable PPE, reduces mobility, or even gets in the way of tasks can make a long shift even more exhausting. Women shouldn’t have to choose between safety and comfort — they deserve both.
One Size Does Not Fit All
Women, on average, have different body proportions compared to men, including narrower shoulders, shorter torso lengths, and smaller hands and feet. Simply offering smaller men’s sizes isn’t the solution — dedicated female PPE is designed with these differences in mind.
The Impact of Female-Inclusive PPE
Ensuring that women have access to PPE tailored to their needs isn’t just about safety — it’s about valuing and empowering them in the workplace, which can benefit an employer.
It Sends a Clear Message of Inclusion
When companies invest in PPE that fits women properly, they show that they care about their female employees and recognise their contributions. It reinforces the idea that women belong in every industry, not as an afterthought, but as an integral part of the workforce.
It Helps Retain and Attract More Women to Male-Dominated Fields
Making workplaces more accessible and comfortable for women encourages more of them to join and stay in industries where they have historically been underrepresented. If we want more women in STEM, construction, emergency services, and other fields, we need to start with the basics — like giving them better PPE.
It Improves Overall Workplace Morale and Performance
When workers feel comfortable and protected, they can focus on doing their jobs safely and effectively. Properly fitting PPE allows women to perform at their best without distraction or discomfort.
Accelerating Action
This year’s International Women’s Day theme, #AccelerateAction, is a powerful call to move beyond conversation and take real steps toward gender equity. Ensuring access to female-inclusive PPE is a practical and necessary action that businesses, manufacturers, and industry leaders can take.
We can’t afford to wait for change — we must drive it. By committing to inclusive PPE, we’re not just ticking a box for compliance; we’re ensuring that every woman in the workplace has the protection, comfort, and respect she deserves, which shows our female colleagues that they are supported and valued.
PPE
Made For Women
Garments designed for men often lack the correct fit for women, so it’s crucial to consider female-inclusive PPE for comfort, productivity, and safety.
