Gender-sensitive health and safety


A new guide, Women’s health and safety @work, from the GMB general union aims to help its workplace reps, shop stewards, health and safety reps and branch equality officers apply a gender-sensitive approach in the health and safety work they carry out.


The guide explains why, although women generally face the same hazards as their male colleagues, there are many reasons to consider risks from a female perspective. It sets out the health and safety issues that affect women, including musculoskeletal disorders, skin conditions, occupational cancer, mental health, and personal protective equipment. 


It also examines women’s reproductive health, including pregnancy and the menopause, and how this can be affected by work or cause health issues for women at work.