When it comes to workwear in the PPE industry, unlike more fashionable clothing, the amount of designs aimed at men has always far outweighed the number of items of women’s workwear available to purchase. Despite the fact that sex or gender has no impact on the ability to perform the same tasks, the lack of suitable safety clothing for women has continually been an issue for years, as we know better fitting safety clothing can only mean a safer level of personal protection.
Unisex PPE is typical across the engineering, rail and construction industries. This hasn’t posed much of a problem when it comes to workwear clothing that is typically unisex, such as overalls or safety gloves. However it can often be difficult for ladies working in these industries to find good fitting hi-vis for women, or a pair of work safety boots that aren’t too big! Not every woman wants to drown in a baggy t-shirt or an unflattering unisex hi-vis jacket!
Recently though, there appears to be a shift in this attitude. PPE workwear has historically been designed with the body shape and size of a man in mind. Nowadays, women make up a larger share of the workforce and workwear manufacturers who understand this and are adapting their ranges of PPE workwear to the fit and style preferences of women are coming out ahead of the game.
Last year TfL introduced its first ever range of women’s ppe workwear, after a successful six week trial. The introduction formed part of Transport for London’s 100 Years of Women in Transport campaign, celebrating the role of women in the industry.
The new range includes high-visibility jackets, trousers, gloves and adjustable eye protection. They even designed safety boots exclusively for the female staff at TfL! An additional tailoring service that’s provided also helps to ensure that female staff have access to better-fitted and therefore safer PPE workwear.
Are you a female working in the rail, engineering or construction industry? What are the main problems you face when buying PPE workwear and safety clothing? Let us know below.
If you require any specific information regarding the sizing and measurements of any of the workwear available for sale at Work & Wear Direct, please contact us on 01702 553698 before purchasing.
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