The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has been cautioned to ensure that its stockpile of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) meets the needs of women, as concerns have been raised about its safety.
Women’s PPE is often resized versions of men’s equipment, which do not properly fit the female body, rendering them ineffective and potentially hazardous.
In a proactive move, the GMB union has secured protection for up to 250,000 women by having companies commit to an inclusive PPE Charter. However, there are growing demands to expand these efforts to safeguard all frontline workers.
A GMB survey revealed that as many as 70% of women encounter ill-fitting protective gear, leading to feelings of insecurity, embarrassment, and fear while on duty. Consequently, Labour MP Kirsteen Sullivan and GMB’s Mel Bartlett have jointly petitioned the UKHSA for prompt action.
They emphasized that ill-fitting PPE poses a significant risk to the health and safety of workers and the public. They highlighted the importance of proper-fitting equipment to ensure effective infection prevention and control.
The UKHSA has been urged to reassess its PPE standards, implement fit-to-form requirements, and scrutinize existing assumptions about PPE fitting to prevent avoidable risks. This call comes after revelations that previous oversights in PPE assessment cost taxpayers £762 million.
As the UK gears up to enhance its national contact tracing system and bolster PPE reserves as part of a £1 billion health protection strategy, Ms. Sullivan stressed the necessity for cost-effective and reliable PPE procurement.
Ms. Bartlett underscored the critical role of appropriately fitting PPE in safeguarding healthcare workers against infections. Neglecting the diverse needs of the workforce could lead to replicating the harm faced by marginalized groups during the pandemic.
Responding to these concerns, a Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of NHS and social care personnel. They highlighted ongoing investments in health protection measures to fortify the country’s readiness for future health crises.