Relationship between Personal Protective Equipment, Self-Efficacy, and Job Satisfaction of Women in the Building Trades
Publication: Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 139, Issue 10
Abstract
Within 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 experience for women within the building trades. This study provides empirical evidence of steps employers can take (namely, providing proper PPE and work clothing for women on site) to improve the job satisfaction of a diversifying workforce.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Construction Engineering and Management
Volume 139 • Issue 10 • October 2013
Copyright
© 2013 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Nov 19, 2012
Accepted: May 14, 2013
Published online: May 16, 2013
Published in print: Oct 1, 2013
Discussion open until: Dec 19, 2013
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