A recent survey by the Women’s Engineering Society (WES) reveals a significant issue within the engineering industry: 60% of personal protective equipment (PPE) is unsuitable for women. This inadequacy compromises safety and underscores a broader issue of inequality in the workplace. Read on to explore the findings of the WES survey, the legal responsibilities of employers, and the urgent need for inclusive and effective PPE solutions for women…
Legal Requirements for PPE
- The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992
Analysing the WES Survey Results
The survey results indicate a significant gender disparity in PPE satisfaction. While 60% of men were satisfied with the current fit and comfort of their PPE, only 26% of women shared the same sentiment. Women are often forced to wear ill-fitting equipment, or - in some cases, forgo the use of PPE entirely, posing serious health and safety risks. Common issues include:
- Poor Fit and Functionality: 42% of women reported that PPR is often too large, including items like harnesses, life jackets, and trousers. Improperly fitting trousers, for instance, can compromise protection against water-borne diseases when tucked into boots.
- Inadequate PPR for Pregnancy: An alarming 61% of pregnant women noted that they did not receive appropriate PPE, reflecting a lack of consideration for bodily changes during pregnancy and menopause.
- Employer Inaction: When concerns about PPE were raised, 50% of women reported that no corrective actions were taken, with only 9& seeing positive changes.
Employer Responsibilities for Providing PPE
Employers have a statutory duty to provide all necessary PPE that is both suitable and appropriate for their employees. This includes ensuring there’s proper training on the use and handling of PPE. Employers must address the diverse requirements of their workforce, including gender-specific needs and religious accommodations.
For more detailed information on these responsibilities, please refer to:
- PPE Survey – Women's Engineering Society (wes.org.uk)
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) at work (hse.gov.uk)
The Need for Inclusive PPE Solutions
The current state of PPE for women in the engineering industry is inadequate, resulting in safety risks and potential legal liabilities for employers. Women are often left with limited options: wear ill-fitting PPE, abandon it altogether, or change job. Employers failing to provide suitable PPE are not only in breach of their legal obligations, but also risk facing sex discrimination and health and safety claims.
Employers should also consider the needs of employees with religious requirements, including those with beards, turbans, or headscarves. For FREE professional advice on how you can ensure compliance, employers are encouraged to contact the HR and Health & Safety Advice Service on 0116 274 9193.
