Personal protective equipment and clothing for women is “moving past simply resizing men’s styles and toward designs made specifically for women,” said Samantha Bigner, product marketing specialist at Protective Industrial Products.
She noted that manufacturers are focusing on “better fit, mobility and protection through tailored silhouettes, broader size ranges and stretch fabrics that still meet durability and safety requirements.”
Added Barbara Fitzgeorge, vice president of marketing for Tyndale Enterprises: “Thankfully, most major brands now recognize the demand for arc-rated and flame-resistant clothing designed specifically for women.
“Now that the need is identified, we’re looking toward a future where the variety of women’s PPE mirrors that of men’s. Women no longer need to settle for PPE that isn’t designed to work for them.”
Fitzgeorge warns to not “underestimate the role that personal choice and comfort play” when it comes to women’s PPE. Ill-fitting PPE can limit a worker’s movements, expose their skin and increase their risk of tripping.
So, “When clothing fits properly, workers are more likely to wear it correctly throughout the day, helping ensure safety requirements are consistently met,” Bigner said.
Kerry Jones, senior product manager at Portwest, said “there’s no excuse” not to offer PPE made specifically for women.
“Continuing to issue men’s-fit PPE to women is no longer acceptable,” she added. “After all, how would a guy feel being handed women’s pants, women’s boots and gloves that don’t fit? Would he work comfortably, safely or efficiently? Probably not.
“Proper fit matters.”
Compiled with the assistance of the International Safety Equipment Association
