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Women in construction are too often provided with ill-fitting PPE

On Behalf of | Apr 10, 2024 | Workplace Injuries

When people used to think of construction workers, they were generally tall, muscular men. While that may have always been somewhat of a stereotype, the industry has definitely changed. Now, for example, a construction site is more likely to include female workers.

Among the many challenges women in construction face is not being able to get personal protective equipment (PPE) like hard hats, safety vests, harnesses and gloves that fit them correctly. In one survey, two-thirds of female construction workers said they had a difficult time getting this equipment in their size. When it comes to pregnant women, it’s even worse. Some 85% said they couldn’t get maternity-friendly PPE.

The dangers of ill-fitting PPE

Aside from not fitting properly – and therefore being less effective – when PPE items are too big, they can get caught in equipment. This can result in serious or even fatal injuries. They may also fall off. Further, when face protection like masks, goggles and respirators are too loose, they don’t offer necessary protection.

The problem isn’t just that some PPE is too large. For very large or pregnant people, things like vests and harnesses that are too tight are uncomfortable and could even harm circulation. Workers are more likely to remove them, which of course leaves them at risk.

The new OSHA rule

While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has rules about PPE, its standards for fit haven’t been as stringent for the construction industry as for some others. Last year, OSHA issued a proposed rule that employers need to provide construction workers with properly fitting PPE.

Manufacturers of PPE have already expanded their lines to include women’s sizes as well as PPE for people of larger-than-average size. More employers just need to honor the fact that every single worker who is required to wear PPE needs items that fit them properly and to recognize the dangers of not providing them.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury or worse due to lack of properly fitting PPE, it’s crucial to protect your right to compensation for medical bills, lost wages and more. Having experienced legal guidance can make all the difference.

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