Working at Height Limited has been advocating for change when it comes to harnesses.

the term One-size-fits-all notions about personal protective clothing belong in the industry’s rearview. The increase in female workforce participation in traditionally male occupations continues to swell. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 1.2 million women were employed in the various sectors the biggest being construction in 2020 in the USA.

Upwards of 30 percent of the manufacturing workforce are women, and industries such as warehousing and trucking continue to push for a more gender-diverse employee pool. There’s no escaping the fact that gender barriers are disappearing, and protective clothing producers must account for physical differences. And, no, the idea of wearing a men’s protective suit one size smaller won’t cut it.

Women in the workplace require and deserve safety garments and more importently harnesses to fit appropriately. Comfort, agility, and breathability are foundational elements regardless of gender. The construction industry alone is expected to add upwards of 400,000 jobs by 2030, and a growing percentage will need protective clothing and harnesses designed specifically for women.

Peoples mental health in the workplace is a topic that demands attention and understanding. While mental health issues affect people of all genders, men often face unique challenges and barriers when it comes to seeking support and maintaining their wellbeing in the professional realm. In this article, we will delve into the reasons why men’s mental health in employment differs, exploring societal expectations, workplace pressures, and the impact of traditional masculine ideals. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of access to occupational health services as a means to address these challenges and provide effective support. By breaking the stigma, promoting awareness, and implementing strategies, employers and individuals can create mentally healthy work environments that prioritise the wellbeing of male employees.

In brief:

• The Unique Challenges of Womens or Men’s Mental Health in the Workplace
• Understanding the Gender Gap: Why Men’s Mental Health Differs
• The Importance of Access to Occupational Health Services
• Breaking the Stigma: Promoting Mental Health Awareness in the Workplace
• Strategies and Support Systems for Men’s Mental Health in the Workplace
• Addressing Work-related Stress and Burnout among Men
• Role of Employers in Fostering a Mentally Healthy Work Environment

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Addressing frequently searched workplace health and safety questions and providing essential guidance and insights for UK workers.

In brief:

• Horizon Platforms’ specialists tackle common health and safety concerns, highlighting the importance of workplace safety standards and employee well-being.
• Answers range from managing falls from height, workplace stress, to legally required noise levels, offering comprehensive advice to UK employees.
• Emphasising employer responsibility and employee awareness, the guidance aligns with the UK’s stringent health and safety regulations and practices.

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The results of a new survey have revealed that workers see health and safety professionals as essential in driving improvements across organisations, but some stereotypes still persist.

In brief:

• Most workers find health and safety professionals ‘necessary’, ‘innovative and helpful’.

• Over half of workers admit to cutting corners and risking safety at work.

• Stereotypes persist, with some seeing H&S professionals as ‘old fashioned’.

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A recent BAuA study has revealed the most common factors that lead to depression and dissatisfaction in the workplace, as well as ways employers can improve wellbeing.

In Brief.

• Depressive symptoms have been linked to having a high work pace and limited job influence.

• Also, long working hours correlated with increased depression rates.

• Bullying at work exacerbates mental health issues, underlining the need for preventive measures.

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Each year in the United States, the first week of June is an observation of National CPR-AED Awareness Week. The week serves to highlight the importance of getting training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED).

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Proper PPE could stop slips, trips and falls injuries among railway workers

Data from the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) suggests that more can be done to reduce slips, trips and falls hazards for railway workers, particularly through the use of proper footwear.

In Breif:

• Slips, trips, and falls are the leading cause of injuries among railway workers, according to RSSB.
• Proper PPE, especially footwear, is crucial in reducing accidents and ensuring worker safety.
• Injuries not only impact worker health but also disrupt operations and incur financial losses.

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Improper use of hand tools sees rise of hand and finger injuries in the US

The BSEE has issued a safety advisory after a spate of hand injuries involving improper use of hand tools, highlighting the need for strict adherence to safety protocols and proper training.

In brief:

• Two offshore workers sustained severe hand injuries due to improper use of hand drills, emphasising the need for detailed job safety analyses.
• BSEE recommends proper hand placement, maintaining good footing, using appropriate PPE, inspecting tools, and ensuring tools meet safety standards.
• In the UK, hand and wrist injuries account for 25% of non-fatal workplace injuries, costing an estimated £1.3bn annually, often due to inadequate safety gloves and training.

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