4 ways to make construction sites more female friendly

While no figures are available in Zimbabwe, there is no question that the number of women putting on hard hats is going up steadily. It is no longer remarkable to see women side by side with men in all jobs as we drive past sites and projects.

The construction industry has been a man’s reserve for a long time. Which means that the industry culture is male oriented. It is therefore important that each organisation looks at some barriers that may exist to making women feel more at home on construction sites to encourage more females to join the industry, thereby creating equal opportunities.

In this article we look at some ways in which construction sites can become more female friendly:

1.   Sexual harassment policy

Every organisation needs an effective sexual harassment policy. There is no question about that. Construction sites as traditionally male only areas where the macho man was admired, are likely to be places where sexual harassment of women is almost institutionalised. More than just having a written document, every organisation needs training of all existing and new staff to ensure that everyone, male and female, understands what sexual harassment is, and why it must not be perpetrated in the work place.

2.   Equipment made to fit

Because it has long been an all-male environment, most equipment on construction site is engineered for average size and big men, making it difficult for women to find the perfect fit which is crucial for safety and efficiency. This is specifically demonstrated with safety wear: there is none designed for women. Organisations need to consider all employees when procuring any equipment. There may be need for lobbying designers and manufacturers to start creating female tailored construction equipment.

3.   Equipment for hard chores

The hard lifting on sites is sometimes beyond the capacity of even the most determined woman. This means that females just cannot do some types of work, thereby disadvantaging them in the job market. But today there is machinery to do almost any heavy lifting. This not only improves efficiency and turnaround time on the job, it also means that everyone has equal access to all work.

4.   Hygiene facilities

The traditional port-a-cabin is designed for a man. Period. A woman will need better facilities during her monthlies. This includes access to adequate water and disposal facilities for sanitary wear. A simple bath shed with a bucket could solve this problem. After all, no woman on the construction site is expecting a spa treatment.

Conclusion

It is a given that females on construction sites have to psyche themselves into fitting into a man’s world because they are the minority and at times the only woman on the job. But the employer also has a role to play in creating an environment where female employees feel as much at home as their male counterparts to ensure full productivity and sustainable team spirit.