FEATURE


WHY WE NEED PPE THAT FITS


Ill-fitting, uncomfortable and impractical PPE can hinder career development, reduce recruitment and deprive industries of the impact a more diverse workforce can make. MSA Safety summarises the issues and developments.


As ‘traditionally male’ sectors such as construction and engineering become more diverse, the problem of PPE inequality is gaining profile. According to the Office for National Statistics (2026), women now make up 15% of construction.


WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?


A 2023 survey by the Yorkshire branch of NAWIC (National Association of Women in Construction) found that 60% of female workers had to wear PPE designed for men. In the same study, 42% said ill-fitting PPE had affected their career. While personal protective equipment should be suited to the wearer, much of today’s PPE only fits the average-sized man, taking little account of anatomical differences between other genders.


Here are some commonly reported experiences with poorly fitting PPE:


• Hard hats and accessories – hair pulling, discomfort, compression headaches, wobbling, slipping, falling off, interfering with vision, temptation to remove and become unprotected.


• Fall protection harnesses – risk (in the event of a fall) of slipping out, or of injury through uneven pressure distribution.


• Safety glasses – falling off, become vulnerable to flying debris or chemicals or impair vision.


• Boots (too big) – tripping, stumbling, foot health problems.


• Gloves (too big) – poor grip, catching in machinery, temptation to remove and become unprotected.


• Hi-vis trousers, overalls and coats – too large, long, baggy (or tight at the waist), distracting or restrictive.


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WHAT NEEDS TO IMPROVE?


Appropriate PPE that meets diverse needs does exist, and enlightened manufacturers continue to improve it. Sadly, managers responsible for procuring PPE are often unaware of the need for PPE diversity, its existence, or don’t see it as a priority. Education is needed.


While women are driving changes in PPE provision, they are not the only group needing a shift away from average- Caucasian-man-based designs. Diversity criteria include culture, religion, modesty, gender identity, disability, health conditions, corrective spectacles and pregnancy. Ultimately, everyone comes in different shapes and sizes.


For employers, the benefits of investing in PPE that fits are enormous:


• Better compliance – PPE that fits is more likely to be accepted by the workers and thus more likely to be worn.


• Better safety – A suitable PPE that fits can significantly reduce the risk of injuries, illnesses, and accidents.


• Better comfort, mobility, practicality and productivity – Your workers will not be hindered or distracted by their PPE and will be able to focus on their work.


• Better inclusivity and diversity – Ill-fitting PPE can make some workers look and feel out of place. To attract and retain a diverse workforce, you must meet each worker’s differing PPE needs ensures they look and feel professional and included.


• Better brand image – The attention you give to providing PPE that fits your diverse workforce could


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