Workwear designed for men not the right fit for women says UK union. 

 

Women across the UK feel unsafe, embarrassed and scared at work because they are forced to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) designed for men’s bodies, according to a survey of hundreds of union members.

 

The study found that more than 70 per cent suffer from ill-fitting PPE:

The national GMB union is urging government ministers to update health and safety laws to ensure all workers are issued properly fitting PPE, and is encouraging all bosses to adopt the new British Standard on inclusive protective equipment.

 

“For years PPE for women has been men’s clothing, shrunk and died pink, they call it ‘shrink and pink’, which is frankly ridiculous,” Vanessa Roberts, a British gas worker said.

 

“With GMB’s campaign and the new British Standard, hopefully we can have PPE that keeps us safe and make people feel like they matter in their workplace, she said.”

 

Another female worker added: “I’ve seen firsthand how poorly fitting PPE can affect safety, confidence and even how valued people feel at work. I hope the new guidelines will finally bring the change so many of us have been waiting for.”

 

Photo credit: Chris Radburn