Labour MP Emma Hardy (Kingston upon Hull West and Hessle) has highlighted the lack of specific mention of women in current PPE regulations during an adjournment debate in the Commons.
She has tabled the Personal Protective Equipment at Work (Protected Characteristics) Bill, which would require employers to ensure that PPE provided to people with particular protected characteristics is suitable for the wearer.
Female Anatomy (Credits: The Times)
Ms. Hardy emphasized the importance of recognizing that women have unique anatomical differences from men and that PPE should be designed with these differences in mind.
She noted that while most PPE distributors do stock women’s PPE, the issue often lies with employers not providing it, despite its availability on the market.
The MP outlined the various health and safety issues that can arise when women wear ill-fitting PPE designed for men, including increased slip, trips, and falls, as well as decreased dexterity and impaired vision.
Female Anatomy (Credits: insider.co.uk)
She cited a survey where 42% of women reported experiencing issues with ill-fitting PPE, impacting their careers and leading to long-term health problems.
Ms. Hardy called for a guarantee that workers will be protected. She argued that current regulations are ineffective in ensuring that many workers receive the protection they need at work.
Her bill addresses these issues by requiring employers to provide suitable PPE for all employees, considering their specific anatomical needs.
