By Mark Smith 04/03/2024

Under: PPE and Workwear / News and Events

It's Time To Celebrate Women Working In Construction!

This week is women in construction week, a time to celebrate the amazing achievements and contributions to all women construction workers. It’s the perfect opportunity to show our support to all females that choose to work in the construction industry and also encourage more women to join.

How many females work in construction in the UK?

Despite the construction industry historically being dominated by men, in recent years the percentage of woman in construction is steadily increasing. Construction news reported a 15.6% female workforce in April to June 2023 – up 1.2% on the previous quarter. That’s good news for all.

Women construction workers have a variety of significant roles in the industry and in recent years more women are becoming construction professionals, executives, and leaders. Their skills, knowledge, and innovation are helping to shape a better future for the construction industry.

 

How we can encourage more women to join the construction industry

Modern day construction companies can make it easier for women to work and prosper within the industry by providing:

1) More family-friendly benefits – this could include assistance with childcare costs, flexible working arrangements, remote working and parental leave options.

2) Better training and development opportunities – including training programs, professional development and mentoring schemes tailored specially to women in order to enhance their skillsets within the construction industry.

3) Equal pay and opportunities – being paid the same hourly rate of pay for the same job and also ensuring that women are able to access the same promotion opportunities within the construction industry as men do. 

4) Strict workplace discrimination and harassment policies – this includes having policies in place which all workers must adhere to. If any issue does arise, there should be a clear, safe and concise avenue to report allegations. 

The implementation of these strategies all help to shape a more inclusive, supportive working environment for women in the construction industry. As a result, this will lead to a higher retention rate for women, more progression to managerial roles and success within the industry as a whole.

How we have adapted to the changing industry

As the percentage of woman in construction increases, so does our product range catering specifically to females. Historically, all safety clothing and equipment was designed for men. As a result women would have to size up. During recent years this has changed with the introduction of women’s clothing range and workwear. We stock a vast range of women’s construction trousers, women’s hi-vis vests, construction shoes and boots for women and much more, because one size doesn’t fit all!

View some of our best sellers:

Emerald Ladies Safety Boots

Elles Ladies Fleece Jacket

Ladies Hi-Vis Executive Vest

Breathable Ladies Hi-Vis Jacket

Hi-Vis Ladies Cargo Trousers

Elles Ladies Polo Shirt

 

 

The future for women in construction

As we celebrate women in construction week, we need to build a brighter future and encourage more females to join the industry. We must continue to address gender equality and diversity by breaking down barriers and creating more opportunities for women. Let’s continue to empower women and champion inclusion for all. It’s time for women working in construction to thrive!