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Workwear That Works: Why Proper-Fit PPE Matters for Women in Skilled Trades
11 May 2026

Workwear That Works: Why Proper-Fit PPE Matters for Women in Skilled Trades

IHSA Safety Podcast

About

This episode of the IHSA Safety Podcast discusses the importance of proper-fitting workwear for women in skilled trades and features Alicia Woods, founder of Covergalls.

Alicia discusses the real challenges women in trades face in finding suitable workwear, including reduced mobility, discomfort, and safety risks caused by poorly fitting personal protection equipment (PPE). Alicia was motivated to create Covergalls based on her own experiences and frustrations with the lack of fitted workwear while working in the mining industry.

Key takeaways on the importance of proper-fit PPE in skilled trades:

·      Proper-fit PPE improves day-to-day comfort and reduces physical strain, allowing workers to perform tasks more efficiently

·      Proper-fit PPE helps reduce safety risks by ensuring coveralls or equipment function as intended without requiring unsafe modifications

·      Designing PPE for diverse body types helps eliminate barriers that have often discouraged women from entering or staying in skilled trades.

 

Listen to the full episode to learn more about why proper-fit PPE is crucial for workplace safety and inclusion.

 

Free resources

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - Resources

Personal Protective Equipment – Requirements and Samples

PPE and winter weather

The right fit for your respiratory and hearing protection

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