Why Women's PPE Matters

As we continue into Women’s History Month, we are going to take a closer look at Women’s PPE. This is not a new topic for us and is an area that we prioritize in our product offerings. However, in the last couple of years we have seen standards catch up with the growing need we see across workplaces.

Why does women’s PPE matter?

First and foremost, it is because for PPE to be effective, it must fit the wearer. Historically, industries requiring higher levels of PPE, such as manufacturing and construction, were largely staffed by men. However, the number of women in these roles is steadily increasing over time. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2025, 11.3% of construction workers, 29.1% of manufacturing workers, and 21.9% of utility workers were women. We see the biggest growth for women occurring in the construction industry, with a steady rate of growth in other areas.

Especially in terms of construction, we know that proper PPE is essential for keeping workers safe. An improperly fitting vest brings with it risks of snagging. Glasses without a proper fit become far less effective at preventing debris from entering the eye. A harness that does not fit properly to the wearer’s body adds more risk when working at heights. The list goes on.

What if the women on your crews are not asking for better fitting PPE?

This is a question that was asked of us previously in regards to safety glasses. No one is complaining, so it must be okay right? Not necessarily. When we have only ever had the wrong option and been told it was right, we begin to accept that it is as good as it gets. I equate this to my first endeavors into running while wearing the wrong shoes. Sure, I was able to run, and the discomfort I experienced was written off as part of the running experience. However, when I got fitted for the right kind of shoe, I realized very quickly that I had been very wrong. I had no way of knowing how important having shoes that fit correctly, felt good, and were designed for the purpose of running was, just as most people entering the workforce for the first time may not know the importance of having PPE that fits correctly and feels comfortable until they have the right equipment. (For the record, this is not unique to women. We know that face shape is a very person-to-person thing, and you may find that more than just the women on your crews need a closer look at things like safety glasses.)

All of this is to say, we are seeing more and more Women’s PPE enter the market because it is needed and it is important. Women’s PPE is not simply pink versions of the products made to fit male bodies. It is equipment designed specifically for women. We are seeing great options coming from Radians, OEL, Safewaze, and Global Glove, with more expected to enter the market moving forward.

Do you have women on your crews? Are they in the right PPE? We are happy to help you figure out the best options for them and all your employees. Give us a call at 919-602-2503 or email us at marketing@safetypackonline.com.

Resources: 

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2025 https://www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat18.htm

More on Women's PPE:

• Women's PPE- Harnesses Blog
• Hi-Vis Apparel for Women Blog
• New Expectations for Women's PPE Blog
• Safety for Everyone: Women's PPE Blog