Women in Safety

As in many industries, gender diversity in the safety workplace has been and continues to be a challenge. While women make up 47% of the American workforce, they account for less than 30% of the safety profession. To improve workplace health and safety products and practices, accurate representation of the people we are trying to protect is important.

This survey was conducted in late summer 2023 and almost 900 people responded. The goal was to get a pulse on the real challenges and experiences of women working in safety. The responses we received highlighted positive experiences, negative experiences, and a few stories that were difficult to read. But all responses revealed very honest, open, and thoughtful survey takers.

This report includes survey questions and responses, analysis, and recommendations for action items that the reader can take into to the workplace.