Navigating Hazards: A Skilled Tradeswoman's Quest for Inclusive Safety Gear
Embracing a Passion for Construction
From a young age, I've been captivated by the world of construction, inspired by my father's belief in my abilities and his guidance in mastering tools and machinery. Little did I anticipate that alongside mastering my craft, I would also be navigating a significant hurdle: finding safety gear that fits properly.
“Hey Sally, Can I see you in the office?”? I can feel my eyes roll wondering – what is it this time.? “Ya, Rick, what’s up?
Don’t take this the wrong way but, it has been mentioned that the clothes you are wearing are a bit of a distraction.
I look at my blue jeans pulled over my red wing boots, dirty white t-shirt and over-sized orange reflective vest that I am lucky if I don’t get it hung on the CVan every time I walk in to get my laser. ?“Rick, every guy out there is wearing blue jeans and a white T-shirt, can you be more specific.”
“Well, yours fit better and it is distracting.”? “I can’t believe we are having this conversation – If your guys can’t keep it in their pants maybe you should be talking to them about what they should be doing, instead of requiring me to go shop for a new wardrobe. I don’t complain about Jim’s pants show me the crack of his ass while I’m eating my lunch or Kevin who seems to be missing a belt – but has really good taste in underwear.”? And I left the office, but the conversation continued to run over and over in my head.
The Challenge of Ill-Fitting Safety Gear
In a profession where safety is paramount, finding properly fitting gear has been a persistent challenge. Standard-issue equipment often fails to accommodate the nuances of a woman's body shape, compromising comfort and effectiveness on the job.? I finally find a favorite brand of jeans that fit halfway decent and last longer than two months, and it becomes my problem that others cannot focus on the work in front of them.
Hard hats, gloves, and steel-toed boots became my armor against the hazards of the job—essential companions on every site. However, as a woman in a predominantly male environment, finding gear that fits correctly has been an ongoing struggle. Standard-issue equipment often feels like it's designed with a different body shape in mind, leaving me grappling with discomfort and compromised safety.
Practical Implications in Daily Work
The challenges aren't just about aesthetics; they're about practicality and functionality. Ill-fitting gear isn't just uncomfortable; it affects practical aspects of the job. Gloves that don't fit properly impede dexterity, while hard hats that slip or pinch can distract from crucial tasks, potentially compromising safety. These issues aren't minor inconveniences; they're critical factors that impact my ability to perform effectively and safely on site.
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Advocating for Change
Despite these obstacles, I remain committed to advocating for inclusive safety gear. It's essential not only for my comfort and safety but also for sending a message of inclusivity and respect to all tradeswomen in the industry.
I've spent countless hours searching for solutions, scouring catalogs and websites for gear explicitly tailored for women. It's disheartening to realize how limited options still are. It shouldn't be a luxury to have safety equipment that fits comfortably—it should be a standard. Companies must recognize that investing in inclusive gear isn't just about compliance; it's about ensuring all workers, regardless of gender, can work confidently, securely, and are proud about representing their company by looking nice and professional.
Beyond the physical discomfort, there's a deeper implication: the message sent to women in construction. When gear doesn't fit properly, it reinforces a sense of exclusion, as if our presence on site is an afterthought. It's a subtle but significant barrier that can erode morale and hinder retention of talented tradeswomen in the industry.
Despite these challenges, my determination remains steadfast. I refuse to let ill-fitting gear deter me from pursuing my passion. Instead, I advocate tirelessly for change within my company and industry at large. Conversations about inclusivity in safety gear need to be amplified, and solutions must be implemented swiftly.
Progress and Challenges Ahead
While strides have been made in recognizing the need for inclusive design, there's still a long way to go. Progress is slowly being made. Some companies are beginning to recognize the importance of inclusive design, consulting with women like myself to develop gear that meets our unique needs. These initiatives are not just about accommodating a niche market; they're about fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect for all workers.
As I continue to navigate my career and push for change, I'm reminded daily of the resilience required in this field. It's not just about mastering trades; it's about confronting barriers head-on and paving the way for future generations of tradeswomen. I'm dedicated to building a future where every tradesperson—regardless of gender—can work confidently and safely with gear that fits properly, supports their success, and let’s us all look good! I want the challenges I overcome to serve as a stepping stone, not just for myself but for others who will follow in my footsteps.
Let's build a future where every worker, regardless of gender, can thrive safely and confidently in construction.
#InclusiveSafetyGear #WomenInConstruction #SkilledTradeswomen #SafetyFirst