17 February 2015

Costain is developing a new range of personal protective equipment designed specifically for women as part of its campaign to boost the number of women in construction.

Costain and supplier Arco have established working groups with women across the industry to design better fitting protective clothing and equipment which is now being tested on site. This includes hi-visibility clothing as well as gloves, glasses and boots.

The aim is to ensure that UK construction companies can access and supply protective equipment better suited to the needs of the entire workforce. Several previous attempts by the industry to produce protective equipment for women have not secured lasting change.

Lydia Walpole, Costain Section Engineer who has led this development, said: “The numbers of women working in UK construction is increasing. Ensuring that women have protective clothing that fits comfortably for a full day on site is essential and a positive step forward.”

The initiative is being trialled at Costain’s Paddington New Yard Crossrail site.

Valerie Todd, Crossrail Talent and Resources Director, said: “This excellent initiative recognises the diversity of our workforce. As well as improving the equipment available to them, it sends a clear message that we’re committed to encouraging more women into the construction industry.”

*EngineeringUK estimates that 2.56 million additional engineering jobs will be created between 2012 and 2022. The demand in engineering skills is in part being driven by an unprecedented level of planned infrastructure projects such as the Northern Line Extension and Thames Tideway.

 

*EngineeringUK is a not for profit organisation, which works in partnership with the engineering community to promote the vital role of engineers and engineering to society.

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