22 FEATURES
Fit for Women
By
Tanya Olckers
Women ’ s needs are quite different from men ’ s – especially when it comes to workwear and PPE .
It ’ s been an ongoing theme : where do women find workwear and PPE tailored specifically for them ? While most companies seem to feel that a boiler suit is a boiler suit and a work shoe is a work shoe , the reality is that this is not the case . Women ’ s bodies are different , and these differences need to be accommodated in their workwear not just for their comfort , but for their safety as well .
We have seen a rise in women entering the plumbing field , and indeed , they are making their mark in a profession that has previously been viewed as male dominated . You may even have several women working on your team . Perhaps you are a woman who is running her own plumbing business . While a lot of attention is being given to having the right tools and equipment to get plumbing jobs done to a high standard , the need for appropriate clothing and footwear for women has taken a back seat .
Previously , Plumbing Africa looked at workwear and PPE in our February 2024 edition ( What are you wearing ?). In that article , Steve van Zyl , National Technical Manager of IOPSA pointed out that , “ Plumbers normally work on various things , so different areas come with different risks . Safeguard yourself by wearing the correct PPE for the job .” a
At the time , we were hard pressed to find the right kind of workwear for women . Most female plumbers stated that they ‘ made do ’ with what was available for men , or adapted what they had to suit them .
SiSi Safety Wear provide solutions tailored specifically for women and are dedicated not just to provide education to companies regarding women ’ s needs but are committed to providing fit-for-purpose workwear , shoes and fall arrest equipment that ensure the safety of the women on your team .
Workwear must accommodate women ’ s comfort and safety .
All images supplied by SiSi Work Wear
Work boots specially designed for women helps prevent accidents .
Shape and fit are important .
www . plumbingafrica . co . za @ plumbingonline @ plumbingonline @ PlumbingAfricaOnline November 2024 Volume 30 I Number 9