True innovation goes far beyond software and technology—it's about creating solutions that have a real impact on people. Ultimately, tools are only as effective as the purpose they serve in improving someone's life.
At Autodesk, our commitment to innovation extends beyond launching new products and enhancements. It's the reason we are dedicated to building trusted industry partnerships and investments that improve the well-being of the current and future construction workforce. Today, we're thrilled to announce our latest initiative in partnership with the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC): providing properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE) tailored specifically for women in construction.
In the construction industry, the need for more inclusive PPE has been gaining attention in recent years. Historically, PPE has followed a one-size-fits-all model, typically based on the measurements of male workers. However, with women now representing a record 10.8% of the construction workforce, ill-fitting equipment compromises both their safety and comfort. In fact, a survey by the Center for Construction Research and Training found that 77% of 174 tradeswomen reported they were exposed to unnecessary hazards because of ill-fitting PPE.
Poorly fitting PPE such as glasses, gloves, vests, helmets, and harnesses can lead to an increased risk of injury, reduced mobility, and decreased job performance. Women, non-binary individuals, transgender people, and others with diverse body types in construction may require PPE that accommodates their unique shapes, sizes, and fits to ensure full protection and functionality.
Recognizing this critical issue, in July 2024, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) initiated a momentous rulemaking process to mandate that employers provide employees with properly fitting PPE to protect them from occupational hazards. This move is set to align the standards across construction, general industry, and maritime sectors, emphasizing the importance of PPE that fits a range of body types while maintaining safety standards.
To address this pressing issue, Autodesk is partnering with AGC to launch an initiative that provides members with complimentary PPE packages designed specifically for women. Each package will include glasses, gloves, and a vest, all tailored to better fit female workers. This collaboration underscores our commitment to ensuring that all construction workers have access to the best possible tools—both digitally and physically.
AGC members can apply now through December 18, 2024 for a chance to receive complimentary PPE packages consisting of gloves, glasses, and a vest that have been designed/sized to provide a better fit for women.
“At Autodesk, we understand that our success is intertwined with the success of our customers and industry on the whole,” says Mallory Adiego, Director North America Customer Success, Autodesk. “Ensuring that women in construction have access to properly fitting PPE is not just about compliance with upcoming regulations; it's about fostering a safer, more inclusive workplace where every worker can perform their best. Our partnership with AGC is a perfect example of how we can leverage our resources and expertise to drive positive change in the construction industry.”
This recent initiative is also not the first time Autodesk has partnered with AGC on providing more inclusive PPE for the construction workforce. In 2019, Autodesk and AGC funded a grant program to supply select, in-need member contractors with fall protection harnesses sized for women who work at heights.
Autodesk is proud to be a part of this important step forward in ensuring that every worker, regardless of gender, has access to the tools they need to stay safe and do their best on the job. By working closely with industry associations like AGC, we can ensure that our essential construction workforce has access to the best possible hardware, software, and training, empowering them to excel in their roles.
Autodesk remains committed to supporting the construction industry through initiatives that prioritize safety, inclusivity and belonging, and innovation. We are excited to see the positive impact this partnership will have on women in construction and look forward to continuing our work with AGC and other industry partners and leaders to create a safer, more equitable future for the entire industry.
