When it comes to workplace safety, one size does not fit all.
Photo credit: © WorkSafeBC (Workers’ Compensation Board of B.C.), used with permission
By Marnie Douglas
Ensuring personal protective equipment (PPE) fits every worker isn’t just a best practice; it’s a critical requirement for creating safe and inclusive work environments. Body shape, size, and industry all affect how PPE fits, which means the wrong size could affect the safety protection it offers. A guideline highlighting the importance of providing well-fitting and appropriate PPE came into effect two years ago, in November 2022.
Addressing the gaps in PPE design
In 2022, the report Canadian Women’s Experiences with Personal Protective Equipment in the Workplace underscored a critical point: women are not simply smaller versions of men. Designing effective PPE requires accurate anthropometric data (detailed measurements of the human body) that reflects today’s diverse workforce.
I recently spoke with Dee Miller, president of F.A.S.T., a B.C.-based manufacturer and one of the vendors across Canada who supply PPE. A growing awareness of the risks associated with poor-fitting safety gear, coupled with an increasing number of women in industrial roles, inspired F.A.S.T. to re-engineer the sizing and fit of its safety apparel in 2023. What they learned along the way, may be helpful for employers and workers looking for PPE with a closer fit.
Why unisex PPE doesn’t work
“Proper data is essential for designing inclusive PPE,” Dee explains. “Differences exist between men and women, and women can’t simply use scaled-down versions of gear designed for men. The fundamental difference between women’s and men’s body structure and the impact that has on safety apparel design must be important for employers to recognize.”
She points out several challenges with “unisex” PPE:
- Neck and shoulder fit: Unisex sizing is based on men’s broader necks and shoulders, leaving women with gaping necklines and drooping shoulders.
- Vest armholes: Often too large, creating noticeable gaps.
- Coveralls: Frequently have misplaced waists, overly long arms and legs, and proportions that don’t align with women’s bodies.
Women aren’t the only ones who benefit from inclusive PPE either. Not all men fit the “standard” size of 5’10″–6’0″ 180–200-pounds. Some are smaller, some are larger, and many require different fits.
The risks of ill-fitting PPE
The consequences of ill-fitting PPE go beyond discomfort. It can restrict movement, cause chafing, and compromise safety — sometimes leading workers to make adjustments that reduce the efficacy of the equipment or avoid wearing it altogether.
“When PPE doesn’t feel like it’s made for them, workers may feel excluded, undervalued, and even less safe,” adds Dee.
When workers feel valued and safe, it can also lead to retention and even recruitment when people learn it’s an inclusive and safe place to work. “Providing safe, well-fitting safety apparel is one of the most cost-effective ways employers can improve workplace culture and build a diverse and inclusive workforce,” adds Dee.
It’s no secret that properly fitting PPE can come with a higher upfront cost. But when ill-fitting, mass-produced safety gear puts workers at risk — causing snags, tripping hazards, or increased exposure —employers must weigh those upfront costs with a potential reduction of time-loss claims, reduction in WorkSafeBC insurance costs, and improved employee retention.
Employee safety is the best investment
While fitted PPE may seem more expensive up front, there’s an untapped savings opportunity: when workers have PPE that fits well, they feel comfortable wearing it and are more likely to take care of it. That can mean fewer lost vests and ripped coveralls, saving employers money in the long run.
Plus, as demand for high-quality, compliant, and properly fitting safety apparel increases, costs will also go down, as domestic manufacturers will be able to produce more and more items in bulk, adds Dee.
Employers who invest in quality PPE not only improve safety outcomes but also foster a supportive workplace environment — one where all employees feel protected and valued. After all, prioritizing employee safety is the smartest investment any company can make.
For more information
Visit worksafebc.com/ppe-that-fits for information on worker and employer responsibilities, as well as tips and resources for how employers can ensure PPE fits properly.
