Province plans to expand requirements in construction to all sectors
Ontario is taking steps to improve workplace safety and inclusivity for women in skilled trades and beyond. A new initiative announced by the Ministry of Labour expands the requirement for properly fitting personal protective equipment (PPE) for women from the construction sector to all sectors of the economy. It’s a move hailed as essential for reducing safety hazards and fostering gender equality. The legislation also introduces mandates for cleaner workplace washrooms for all workers.
But how well have these requirements worked in construction so far?
Natasha Ferguson, a trailblazer in the construction industry and founder of the nonprofit Women’s Work, applauds the province’s efforts in construction. “So much of what we do in the construction industry is based around safety first,” she explains. “For women not to have PPE that works with our bodies and fits comfortably is a disadvantage—not only for us but for the industry as a whole.”
Safety hazard no more
The construction sector, long criticized for its lack of gender-specific PPE, has started making small but significant strides. Ferguson points to early adopters like Mark’s Work Wearhouse, which is designing PPE solutions tailored to women’s needs. “Mark’s has been huge in this space,” Ferguson says. “They’re focused on corporate partnerships, getting companies to purchase PPE directly for their employees. That’s the kind of systemic change we need to see.”
Despite these efforts, Ferguson notes that employers have been slow to prioritize properly fitting PPE for women. She says the newly proposed legislation places much-needed accountability on companies to ensure every worker has the equipment they need to stay safe. “It’s not just about ticking boxes,” she says. “It’s about real safety on the job site. Ill-fitting gear is a safety hazard, plain and simple.”
Building momentum in construction
In construction, where women currently make up about 5% of the workforce on-site in Ontario, this push for proper PPE represents another step toward inclusion. Just a few years ago, women comprised only 3.5% of construction site workers. Ferguson credits progress to government support and organizations like Build a Dream, which work to break down barriers for women entering trades.
“Five or six years ago, there were hardly any women on job sites,” Ferguson notes. “Today, we’re starting to see more. It’s not just about the numbers going up—it’s about the support we’re receiving at all levels. This legislation is another step forward.”
Clean washrooms as a welcome sign
Another pivotal element of the initiative is the focus on clean and accessible workplace washrooms. Women in construction and other industries have long faced challenges accessing clean facilities, which Ferguson describes as a basic yet critical aspect of workplace inclusivity.
“When a woman has to walk 200 meters to find a washroom that isn’t clean or stocked with feminine products, what does that tell her?” Ferguson asks. “It’s uncomfortable, it’s demoralizing, and it’s a clear signal that she doesn’t belong there. Clean washrooms send the opposite message: You’re welcome here. We care about you.”
The push for clean washrooms started in 2022 under the Working for Workers Act. With the new initiative, the Ontario government plans to enforce stricter cleaning standards and tracking systems, ensuring accountability from employers.
Eyes on the future
Ferguson is optimistic about what lies ahead. She envisions greater collaboration between government, industry leaders, and advocacy groups to create a more inclusive and equitable workforce. Her ultimate goal? Increasing the representation of women in construction to 20% by 2030.
“It’s not a matter of if—it’s a matter of when,” she says. “We’re creating programs, educating employers, and building a movement that makes trades a viable and welcoming career for women. I truly believe that in five years, we’re going to see a huge positive impact on our economy and our communities.”
As Ontario builds on its commitment to safety, inclusivity, and gender equity, leaders like Ferguson are paving the way for lasting change. The message is clear: Properly fitting PPE and clean washrooms aren’t just workplace perks—they’re essential building blocks for a better, safer future. And in Ontario, it’s a message that started in construction, and is moving to all sectors of the economy.
