An Occupational Safety and Health Administration final rule that requires employers in the construction industry to provide each worker with proper-fitting personal protective equipment, or PPE, was published December 12, 2024, and went into effect on January 11, 2025. Municipal leaders need to know that a great deal of what municipal workers do on a daily basis is subject to the OSHA construction standards.
Personal protective equipment is essential for ensuring the safety and health of workers across various industries. OSHA has established guidelines to ensure that all workers, regardless of gender, are adequately protected. However, the unique needs of female workers have often been overlooked in safety protocols, leading to the necessity for tailored PPE solutions.
Women make up a significant portion of municipal workforces, as participation in traditionally male-dominated jobs throughout municipalities is on the rise. As more women enter these fields, the need for appropriate PPE that accommodates their specific requirements becomes increasingly critical. Proper PPE helps prevent workplace injuries and illnesses, which can have severe consequences for both the individual and the municipality.
Two key criteria for appropriate PPE usage are fit and comfort. Many PPE items, such as helmets, gloves and protective clothing have traditionally been designed with men's body shapes and sizes in mind. This can lead to issues with fit, comfort, and effectiveness for women. Poorly fitting equipment can hinder movement and reduce overall safety.
The availability of women's PPE is often limited. Many manufacturers focused on male-oriented designs, resulting in fewer options for women. This can lead to a reliance on ill-fitting gear or a lack of equipment altogether.
In some industries, there is a stigma associated with women's clothing for women wearing PPE, particularly in environments where traditional gender roles are prevalent. This can discourage women from using necessary protective gear. There is often a lack of awareness among municipalities and safety officers about the specific needs of female workers, which can result in inadequate training and insufficient provisions of suitable PPE.
OSHA recognizes the need for personal protective equipment and accommodates all workers, including women. Employers should conduct a thorough hazard assessment of the workplace to ensure that PPE is maintained for all hazards associated with the municipal worker in mind. This includes considering the needs of female workers, and providing gear that fits properly. OSHA mandates that employers provide training on the correct use, and maintenance limitations of PPE. The training should be inclusive and address the specific needs of women in the workplace.
OSHA also encourages manufacturers to consider these diverse body types and sizes of the workforce when designing. This includes promoting the specific safety gear that meets the same standards as traditional equipment.
While OSHA's guidelines provide a framework for ensuring that all employees are adequately protected, it is up to employers to implement these recommendations. Effectively accommodating fit, comfort and inclusivity in PPE design and provisions in municipalities can enhance safety, promote well-being, and empower female workers to thrive in their roles.
Members of the SC Municipal Insurance Trust can use the SCMIT safety grant for personal protective equipment for women and men up to $4,000 for the year 2025. For questions, contact Loss Control Consultant John Ciesielski at 803.354.4752 or jciesielski@masc.sc.