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bone structure, size, width and shape. These variations require gender-specific safety footwear. The lack of inclusivity in PPE stemmed from its development in the 1950s and 1970s by the National Institute of Health and Safety, as the organization used data collected from military personnel and the general population of that era. Now decades old, this data no longer reflects today’s diverse workforce—which encompasses more women, body shapes and sizes that were not part of this collection of data.5 Without properly fitting PPE, the safety of tradeswomen is compromised and can send the message they are not welcome in the trades. Further, ill-fitting safety footwear can lead to injuries from hot spots, blisters and abrasions to unnecessary bulk, which could cause slips, trips and falls. To combat these injuries, women in the market should seek out brands that specifically design and fit products for the biomechanics of their bodies. Some companies bring tradeswomen into the product development process. These women, who come from a variety of professions, can provide feedback on the fit and performance of products from initial conception to product release, which can be incorporated to improve future designs. Looking Forward Selecting a work boot that fits well and has the right performance, comfort and safety features for success on the job site is crucial. Since safety and comfort start from the ground up, the right footwear is essential in meeting the constantly evolving demands of labor-intensive fields. This is especially important looking forward, as a surge of women entering into the trades coupled with a rise in manufacturing calls for footwear that not only account for variations on the jobsite, but also the anatomical differences of every foot. Robin Skillings is the VP & Global GM at KEEN Utility. KEEN Utility, a leading industrial and service footwear brand, successfully exceeds footwear safety standards while combining advanced durability and innovation with the same comfort and unparalleled classic fit offered by KEEN outdoor, lifestyle, and kids footwear. KEEN Utility footwear is grounded in protection with the goal to make boots to fit you better. The whole you. For more, visit www. keenutility.com. REFERENCES 1. www.federalreserve.gov/releases/g17/Current/g17.pdf 2. www.bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag493.htm 3. www.bls.gov/ooh/transportation-and-material-moving/hand-laborers-and- material-movers.htm 4. nfsi.org/nfsi-research/quick-facts/ 5. blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2020/12/14/exoskeletons-health- equity/ Turn to a Higher Power With its high-quality, virtually indestructible alloy steel frame the Portable Scene Light II is waterproof and stackable–perfect for building a light tower when needed. Plus, with 10,000 lumens in a cordless and compact package, you can prevent trip hazards in already hazardous locations. 10,000 LUMENS | WATERPROOF | 360° ROTATING HEAD | STACKABLE STREAMLIGHT.COM/PSLII © 2023 STREAMLIGHT, INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. wwUwn.toitlhesd-o4nl1ine.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 2023 | Occupational Health &1/S27a/f2e3ty3:01 P2M3