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Why Well-Fitted PPE Clothing is Essential For Women On-Site
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a crucial aspect of workplace safety for both men and women. However, when it comes to women's PPE clothing, there are often unique challenges that need to be addressed. Ill-fitted PPE clothing can lead to injury, reduced mobility, discomfort, chafing, and heat stress, making it essential to prioritise well-fitted PPE clothing for women on work sites. In this blog, we will explore why well-fitted PPE clothing is essential for women as it can prevent injuries and improve work quality.
The Challenge: Finding Appropriately Fitted Women’s PPE Clothing
One of the most significant challenges women face on-site is finding PPE clothing that fits their body shape. PPE clothing is often designed for male body shapes, which can cause discomfort and hinder mobility. According to a recent survey , 94% of female respondents reported that they have encountered PPE that is designed for men and not women.
Preventing Injury
Ill-fitted PPE clothing can increase the risk of injury on-site. For instance, loose clothing can get caught in machinery or equipment, leading to serious injuries. Similarly, ill-fitted
safety shoes or boots
can cause slips, trips, and falls, which can result in injuries. By providing well-fitted PPE clothing to women on-site, the risk of injury can be significantly reduced.
At Highland Industrial Supplies, we provide a range of PPE clothing tailored to women, to ensure they are safe and protected while on the job. For example, these
Otter safety boots
come in an array of sizes to fit both men and women comfortably. A heel pull tab makes the boots easy to get on, and an anti-slip heel lining will keep feet in place. This style
of boot benefits from a Dual Comfort shock-absorbing footbed and new STS rugged sole — working hard to prevent any injuries.
Well-Fitted PPE Clothing Reduces Discomfort
Wearing PPE clothing that does not fit well can be uncomfortable, leading to reduced productivity and work quality. Uncomfortable PPE clothing seems to be a real issue within the workplace, as
85% of women
have reported discomfort when wearing PPE which has impacted their performance at work. Women may feel constricted, leading to difficulty in performing their tasks. Similarly, PPE clothing that is too loose can cause irritation and chafing, leading to reduced work quality due to frustration.
Providing well-fitted PPE clothing to women on-site can help reduce discomfort, leading to improved work quality and productivity.
Improved Mobility in Well-Fitted PPE Clothing for Women
PPE clothing that fits well can help improve mobility, allowing women to move around freely and perform their tasks with ease. Ill-fitted clothing can restrict movement,
making it challenging to perform tasks efficiently. When looking for women’s PPE clothing, it’s important to check the features will benefit movement and comfort.
For example, these
Hi-Vis women’s stretch work trousers
use high-performance two-way stretch fabric to give a maximum range of movement when working. With side elastic waist for ultimate wearer comfort and an adjustable hem to
accommodate all leg lengths, this type of women’s PPE wear ensures a sensible fit and maximum comfort for the wearer to help improve the quality of work.
According to a study by the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health,
workers wearing poorly fitting PPE gloves experienced a 71% reduction in grip strength. It is therefore essential that
well-fitted PPE gloves
are provided for both men and women in the workplace in order to maintain grip and security when conducting physical tasks.
Reduce Heat Stress with Quality PPE Clothing
Women who work in industries that require PPE clothing may be at risk of heat stress, particularly in warm weather. Wearing well-fitted PPE clothing can reduce heat stress by
allowing the body to cool down more efficiently. When PPE clothing is ill-fitted, it can trap heat close to the skin and prevent air circulation, causing the body to overheat.
This can be especially dangerous in hot and humid environments, especially during the summer months.
Well-fitted PPE clothing, on the other hand, allows for air circulation and reduces heat buildup. PPE clothing that is designed with breathable fabrics and features like
ventilation can also help to reduce heat stress.
Stihl Advance X-Light Trousers
make use of advanced AVERTIC™ protective material, which is ultra-light and extremely breathable, which helps reduce the risk of heat stress.
It is important to note that workers should also take other precautions to prevent heat stress, such as staying hydrated, taking regular breaks in a cool area, and monitoring
their own symptoms. However, wearing well-fitted PPE clothing is an important part of preventing heat stress and promoting worker safety in hot environments.
Are You Looking for Women’s PPE Clothing?
At Highland Industrial Supplies, we understand the importance of providing well-fitted PPE clothing to women on work sites. By providing well-fitted PPE clothing, workers can perform their tasks efficiently,
improve productivity, and reduce the risk of injury. We offer a wide range of women's PPE clothing, including safety boots,
gloves and
hi-vis clothing
Our products are designed to fit all body shapes, ensuring maximum comfort and safety.
Visit us
in-store or browse our range of PPE clothing and accessories online. Looking for advice about PPE?
Contact us
and our experts will be happy to chat with you.