Relationship between Personal Protective Equipment, Self-Efficacy, and Job Satisfaction of Women in the Building Trades

Abstract

AbstractWithin construction trades, there is a lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) and work clothing specifically designed and manufactured for women. This was a mixed methods study designed to investigate the use of PPE and work clothing among tradeswomen and to examine attributes significantly related to PPE/work clothing satisfaction using the Functional-Expressive-Aesthetic (FEA) consumer needs model. In addition, the relationship between PPE/work clothing, self-efficacy, and job satisfaction were quantitatively analyzed. The findings of this study suggest the common phrase “dress for success” applies beyond white-collar workers. The data showed clear connections between satisfaction of PPE and work clothing, self-efficacy, and overall satisfaction of trades work. Although it is a leap to imply properly fitting PPE can improve the statistics of job retention for tradeswomen, this research indicates it is logical to suggest wearing proper PPE and work clothing creates a more positive work exper...