Accelerating action: The importance of inclusive PPE for women in engineering and construction
Accelerating action: The importance of inclusive PPE for women in engineering and construction
In light of International Women’s Day and the 2025 theme “Accelerate Action,” which calls for the implementation of meaningful changes to promote gender equality, we are underscoring the importance of inclusive Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and its impact on safety, comfort, and a sense of belonging in the workplace.
Zoe Hamer, Project Director and Laura Brown, Health & Safety Manager, are both passionate advocates for gender equality in construction and engineering. With years of experience working on data center construction projects, they have witnessed firsthand the evolution of workplace safety standards. We spoke with them to hear their experiences and insights on how inclusive PPE helps to accelerate action.
Breaking the One-Size-Fits-All Approach
Traditionally, most PPE has been designed with a unisex—or rather, male-oriented—fit. However, this doesn’t account for differences in body shape, foot size, and overall comfort. While many items like gloves, glasses, hard hats, and boots come in standard sizes, PPE tailored for women is essential to ensuring both safety and comfort on-site.
Poorly fitting PPE can lead to serious safety hazards. Oversized clothing can snag on equipment, loose gloves reduce grip, and boots that don’t fit properly can cause blisters or increase the risk of slips and falls. Zoe, who has worked extensively in construction, highlights this issue:
"Accidents can occur due to oversized clothes that can get caught, incorrect boot sizes creating blisters, or gloves that are too big to properly grip tools. It is critical to be protected comfortably."
Thankfully, the market has improved significantly, with manufacturers now considering different sizes, genders, and cultural requirements. However, ensuring that all workers have access to correctly fitting PPE remains a priority.
Comfort Equals Confidence
Beyond safety, properly designed PPE contributes to the overall well-being of women in construction. When PPE fits well, it allows women to focus on the job at hand rather than worrying about discomfort or the risk of accidents. Laura, a professional in the industry, has observed a significant shift in PPE over the years:
"Women’s PPE has changed dramatically. Hi-vis vests, overalls, and jackets are now more tailored for a better fit, reducing excess fabric that could catch on equipment and cause a hazard."
She also highlights how better-fitting boots have improved safety and comfort:
"Women-specific safety boots now account for differences in foot shape, like narrower heels and smaller overall dimensions. This improves support, prevents blisters, and enhances slip resistance. For me, it’s about feeling comfortable in the workplace, as you never know what situations may arise in a safety role. Having PPE that is safe and supportive certainly helps."
Zoe agrees, emphasizing how proper PPE can help foster inclusivity:
"Making women feel comfortable in a very male-dominated industry also helps with inclusion. It’s not just about safety; it’s about making sure women feel like they belong on-site."
She also highlights the broader impact of inclusive PPE beyond just gender:
"Inclusive PPE, not just for women but for different cultures too, will help the individual feel comfortable and part of the team."
The Bigger Message: Women Belong Here
The availability of inclusive PPE sends a powerful message: women’s safety and contributions are valued. It’s not just about equipment—it’s about recognising that women deserve the same level of consideration as their male colleagues. Laura reflects on what this means for women in construction:
"For me, inclusive PPE is about being considered. It shows that we belong in the workplace. Our safety matters and our contributions are valued. Knowing that our comfort is being thought about makes a real difference."
As more women enter the construction industry, companies must continue to adapt, ensuring that safety gear is not a barrier but an enabler of success. Properly designed PPE is a small but significant step towards creating a safer, more inclusive, and more confident workforce.
Breaking barriers
At Equans Data Centers, we recognise that small actions can lead to big changes. We strive to ensure our employees’ safety and comfort. During International Women’s Day and every day, we affirm our commitment to accelerating action towards a more diverse, inclusive and empowered workplace.