How can the working environment be improved for both women and men?

The work environment is a crucial factor for both employers and employees. To create a fair and healthy working environment for all, it is important to include a gender perspective in work environment management. This article highlights how the work environment can be improved for both women and men.

Gender segregated labor market and its consequences

Women and men often work in different occupational fields, leading to different types of health and safety risks. More women than men get sick from their jobs, while men are more likely to suffer serious accidents and deaths at work. It is important to understand these differences in order to adapt health and safety management in the best possible way.

Gender equality in the workplace

To create a gender-equal working environment, the following aspects should be considered:

1. Mapping of work tasks: Women and men may have different work tasks even within the same occupation, which can lead to different types of repetitive strain injuries. Women often perform more repetitive tasks while men handle heavy lifting and machinery.

2. Work environment policy with a gender perspective: A work environment policy that includes a gender perspective can help to highlight and address gender-related work environment problems. The policy should also promote equal opportunities for skills and career development for both women and men.

3. Workstation design: Workstations and equipment should be adapted to suit both women and men. This includes ergonomic workstations, tools adapted for different hand sizes and protective clothing suitable for all body types.

Tips to improve the working environment

To effectively work on improving the work environment from a gender perspective, the following tips can help:

• Reduce repetitive tasks: Try to vary the tasks to reduce the risk of repetitive strain injuries. If this is not possible, distribute tasks evenly between genders.
• Conduct regular risk assessments: Analyze occupational health and safety risks taking into account gender differences and take measures to minimize these risks.
• Train managers and employees: Make sure that everyone in the organization is aware of the importance of a gender equal working environment and how they can contribute to improving it.
• Encourage participation: Create an inclusive workplace where both women and men have the opportunity to influence and participate in the work environment.

10 reasons to work with a gender perspective

1. Reduced sickness absence: Sickness absence is lower in occupations with a gender balance.
2. Increased creativity and efficiency: mixed teams perform better and generate more innovative ideas.
3. Better working environment: A gender-equal workplace reduces the risk of harassment and discrimination.
4. Higher profitability: Companies with a gender focus report better results and increased productivity.
5. Increased staff motivation: Gender equality leads to increased employee satisfaction and engagement.
6. Better use of resources: Full use of the competences and skills of the workforce.
7. Improved working environment: A gender-equal working environment creates a positive working atmosphere and better cooperation.
8. Reduced staff turnover: Companies that work on gender equality retain skilled staff longer.
9. Preventing health problems: adapted tasks and workstations reduce the risk of work-related health problems.
10. Increased competitiveness: Companies with good gender equality and work environment are more attractive to both employees and customers.

Take the step towards a gender equal working environment

By working systematically with a gender perspective in the work environment, companies can create a fair and healthy work environment for all employees. To gain even more knowledge and practical tools, we recommend our course "Better Work Environment (BAM)".

Better Work Environment (BAM) - Read more and sign up here