PULSAR® have been providing its workwear ranges in women's sizes for years, placing them firmly at the cutting edge of inclusive workwear design. Debbie Huntley, Sustainability Manager at PULSAR®, shares her knowledge on inclusivity from the perspective of a workwear supplier.
Why is it important to have inclusive uniform policies?
The world we live in today is different to the protective clothing and workwear which was once only suitable for males. In an industry which is now driving change and diversity it's important to be aware of these demographic shifts.
People are demanding better workplace conditions, and uniform can play a big part in that. Well-fitting uniforms can provide comfort. respect, and pride in people's daily work. as they begin to feel they can represent themselves as well as their company.
As a business. PULSAR® has an open-door policy on bringing issues in uniform to the table for discussion. The sales team supports this function by offering expertise in round table discussions for areas where the uniform is not meeting the end user's needs, be it because of religious concerns or medical issues such as menopause.
When PULSAR® can be a part of the discussion directly, the design team can see what challenges are being faced and can collaborate with fabric partners and manufacturers to work on a solution together, providing a uniformed offering.
Considerations for Inclusivity in the Uniform Industry
It's been fantastic for PULSAR® to be involved in and witness changes happening in the industry to support maternity wear, inclusivity, and religious clothing.
Discussions are taking place and they're being given space to build momentum.
It is important to approach the development of uniforms with a view of offering something that can support wearers and act as an activewear item, utilising performance fibres to combat unpredictable weather and high temperatures occurring due to climate change. It's necessary to learn about the needs of workers by investing time on-site, allowing designers to provide truly functional workwear, with features like stretch for moveability and well-being.
What are the challenges in delivering inclusivity in uniform programs?
In inclusive design there's always going to be challenges with minimum order quantity (MOQ) and lead time. If it's a small take-up of items then going to the sample room is best. but there will be a surcharge and often end-users don't understand why they must pay more.
When inclusivity and uniform pricing are brought up it can sometimes spook buyers who are focused solely on the cost, however, it is crucial to have these discussions to educate people about the true costs and benefits involved in producing goods with inclusivity in mind.
Size ranges can also play a significant role. If the size range is limited, it can result in repeated orders at the same high price, which often leads to kickback and frustration.
Lead time for development is another problem. If a query has been brought to a supplier it's often a challenge to deliver in the time scales the client demands. particularly for protective clothing, as buyers want a solution readily available which simply can't happen due to the necessary care and resources needed in the design process.
Manufacturers with an inclusive mindset like PULSAR® are making strides in delivering on the needs of all workers. Opening the discussion can drive change. overcoming hurdles in pricing and order quantities. Through ongoing collaboration between suppliers. manufacturers and workplaces, workwear can accommodate organisational diversity, equality and inclusion.
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