When it comes to safety gear, one size does not fit all. For decades, personal protective equipment (PPE) was designed with the “average male” body in mind, leaving many women in manufacturing, construction, utilities, and other high-risk jobs with gear that doesn’t fit properly.
Ill-fitting PPE isn’t just uncomfortable—it’s unsafe. A loose hard hat can shift and block your vision, oversized gloves can make gripping tools harder, and baggy high-visibility vests can snag on equipment.
The good news? More manufacturers are specifically designing PPE for women, and knowing what to look for can help you stay safe and productive on the job
PPE that fits correctly is essential for:
- Safety: Poorly fitting gear can reduce protection and increase hazards.
- Comfort: Gear you can move in helps maintain focus and stamina.
- Performance: The right fit improves dexterity, visibility, and mobility.
OSHA requires employers to provide PPE that fits each worker properly, but it’s important for you to know what options are available and advocate for gear that works for you.
Common Challenges with Women’s PPE
1. Hard Hats
- The issue: Standard suspension systems often sit too low or loose on smaller heads.
- What to look for: Adjustable suspension systems with multiple sizing points, lighter weight models, and features like rear harness gaps for ponytails.
2. Safety Glasses
- The issue: Glasses designed for wider faces can slide down or leave gaps at the sides.
- What to look for: Narrower frames, adjustable nose pads, wraparound styles for full coverage.
3. Gloves
- The issue: Oversized gloves can make it hard to grip tools or handle small parts.
- What to look for: Gloves available in smaller sizes with the same ANSI/ISEA 105 cut, puncture, and abrasion ratings as standard options.
4. High-Visibility Clothing
- The issue: Standard vests and jackets can be too long, too loose, or restrict movement.
- What to look for: ANSI/ISEA 107-compliant garments in women’s cuts with tapered fits and shorter lengths.
5. Safety Footwear
- The issue: Men’s boots in smaller sizes don’t always match women’s foot shapes, leading to discomfort or instability.
- What to look for: Safety shoes or boots built on women’s lasts (foot molds) with appropriate ASTM impact and compression ratings.
How to Identify Women’s PPE That Meets Safety Standards
When choosing PPE, make sure it:
- Is labeled with the correct safety standard (e.g., ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 for eyewear, ANSI/ISEA 105 for gloves).
- Offers the same level of protection as men’s PPE—women’s gear should never mean reduced performance.
- Is tested for your specific hazards, whether that’s cut resistance, electrical protection, or high-visibility requirements.
Advocating for the Right Safety Gear for Women
If your workplace doesn’t currently provide PPE designed for women:
- Share feedback with your safety manager or supervisor.
- Request catalogs or samples from vendors that offer women’s PPE lines.
- Remind decision-makers that OSHA regulations require properly fitting PPE for all workers.
Rodeno’s Commitment to Inclusive Safety
At Rodeno, we partner with manufacturers who design PPE for all workers—including women—without compromising on safety standards. From hard hats to high-visibility jackets, we’ll help you find gear that fits properly and keeps you protected.
Need help finding women’s PPE that meets ANSI/ISEA requirements?
Contact Rodeno today for personalized recommendations.