The ‘Make Do’ Pressure: Why Women Deserve Better-Fitting Safety Gloves: International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is a time to recognise progress, celebrate achievements, and reflect on the changes still needed to create more inclusive workplaces. While conversations often focus on leadership and equality, there’s an everyday issue many women continue to face at work. PPE that simply doesn’t fit. One of the most common examples of this? Gloves that are sized with only one gender in mind.
Why Glove Fit Is More Than Just Comfort
Gloves are meant to support the job, not make it harder. But when women are given gloves that are not the right size, simple tasks can quickly become frustrating. Fingers cannot feel properly, movement is limited, and handling tools or materials becomes more awkward than it needs to be.
Over time, this can lead to tired hands, discomfort, and an increased risk of mistakes, especially in roles that rely on precision or repetitive movements. It’s a small issue on the surface, but one that can have a real impact during a long shift. Poor glove fit can turn everyday tasks into unnecessary safety risks.
The Pressure to “Make Do”
Many women are still expected to size up or wear whatever is available. Sometimes this is due to limited stock; other times, it’s the unspoken pressure not to raise concerns or ask for alternatives because they don’t want to be seen as making a fuss.
As a result, ill-fitting gloves are often tolerated rather than challenged. But PPE shouldn’t be about putting up with discomfort, it should be about it’s protection and the ability to do the job properly and safely as intended.
Why Fit Should Never Be an Afterthought
Hands aren’t all the same, and women’s hands aren’t simply smaller versions of men’s. A glove that fits properly allows for natural movement, better control, and less strain throughout the day. It also tends to last longer and perform better, because it’s being used as intended.
Encouraging a Better PPE Culture
Creating safer workplaces starts with choice and open conversation. Employers can support women by:
- Providing a full range of glove sizes
- Encouraging workers to select the size that fits them best
- Listening to feedback around comfort, fit, and performance
When women feel comfortable speaking up about fit, it helps create a workplace where safety and wellbeing come first.
A Small Change That Supports Bigger Progress
International Women’s Day isn’t just about awareness, it’s about practical actions that improve day-to-day working life. Ensuring women aren’t pressured into wearing the wrong sized gloves is a simple yet meaningful step towards safer, more inclusive workplaces.
Having the right PPE isn’t a luxury. Something as simple as the right glove size can make a lasting difference.
This International Women’s Day, let’s continue to listen, adapt, and provide protection that truly fits.
Content created in partnership with Unigloves.
