As the chemical engineering industry embraces greater inclusivity, Sisi Safety Wear is addressing a critical gap, which is the lack of chemical-resistant Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) tailored specifically for women. At the upcoming Women in Chemical Engineering conference, set to take place from 27-28 March 2025.
The hidden safety crisis in chemical engineering
Despite advancements in workplace safety, over 80% of women in the chemical industry continue to wear PPE designed for men. This misalignment increases their exposure to hazardous spills, burns, and electrical risks, leading to compromised safety, discomfort, and reduced efficiency in high-risk environments.
“Chemical exposure and electrical hazards are daily realities for women in this field, yet the majority of PPE is still designed with only male workers in mind,” says Jamie-Lee Bishop from Sisi Safety Wear. “Sisi is leading a new era of PPE that ensures women in chemical engineering have protection that fits properly and performs seamlessly.”
At the conference, Sisi Safety Wear will reveal its latest industry-first innovations, specifically engineered to address the unique challenges faced by women in the industry.
The Fuse Safety Boot and D59 Workwear Garment
Sisi Safety Wear will unveil two innovative PPE solutions at the Women in Chemical Engineering conference.
1. Sisi Fuse Safety Boot: A transformative for women working around high-voltage equipment and chemical spills, this electrical hazard-resistant safety boot boasts 20KVA electrical resistance, a lightweight PU/rubber sole, and an ergonomic female fit that enhances comfort and stability. The boot is designed to prevent fatigue, slips, and exposure to dangerous chemicals, which is an essential upgrade for female professionals in chemical plants, refineries, and labs.
As the first locally manufactured, women-specific safety boot, it features a plush padded collar and breathable Birdseye linings with anti-microbial treatment, as well as a PU climate-control footbed that delivers exceptional comfort and hygiene. “Having partnered with a South African, global-integrated energy and chemicals company, we believe this boot is fit for the intended purpose, and we do believe this will be well suited for women who operate amongst harsh chemicals due to the rubber sole,” says Bishop.
2. Sisi D59 Workwear Garment: Crafted from high-performance, flame-resistant D59 fabric, this workwear is specifically designed to protect women from chemical splashes, extreme heat, and fire hazards. Unlike traditional unisex designs, the Sisi D59 garment offers a contoured female fit, ensuring unrestricted movement while maintaining maximum safety standards.
Changing PPE standards for women in chemical engineering
Beyond showcasing these innovative products, Sisi Safety Wear is calling on industry leaders to implement inclusive PPE policies that address the specific needs of female workers in hazardous environments.
“This is not just about comfort; it’s about saving lives and ensuring equal safety standards for women,” adds Bishop. “We are urging decision-makers to act and implement PPE solutions that truly cater for women in chemical engineering.”
The Women in Chemical Engineering conference will provide an exclusive opportunity for professionals, engineers, and safety specialists to explore the future of PPE. Attendees are invited to visit the Sisi Safety Wear stand for expert insights and discussions on advancing safety for women in the chemical industry.
For more information, please visit https://www.sisi.co.za.
