Personal Protective Equipment for Women Must Fit Properly

The International Safety Equipment Association has called on the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to address the safety hazard of women wearing improperly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE), particularly in construction. ISEA President Charles D. Johnson says, "OSHA needs to address this gap in its regulations and require employers in construction — and in every industry — to provide properly fitting PPE to every employee." The group says that PPE that is loose can get caught in machinery and PPE that is too tight can be uncomfortable and cause the worker to not wear it. "Employers need to be proactive and accountable with regard to PPE. Ordering PPE is not merely a box to check off on a to-do list — it's a vital step in saving lives preventing injuries, and creating a culture of worker safety," he says. The problem is "some employers find it easier to order one or two common sizes in bulk — often Large or XL — without regard for physical variations in employees."

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