The Hidden Risks of Gender Bias in Occupational Health

Gender equality in occupational safety and health (OSH) requires recognizing biological, social, and cultural differences between men and women. Effective risk assessment and protection measures must be adapted to address these differences, according to the ILO. In Ibero-America, occupational safety and health remain deeply affected by a persistent gender gap, according to the ILO's latest report, Occupational Safety and Health with a Gender Perspective. Women in the workplace are more likely to experience stress and anxiety, while men face a higher risk of accidents and severe injuries. 

The misconception that women work in low-risk jobs leads to an underestimation of their occupational hazards. A lack of gender perspective in OSH results in inadequate risk prevention measures, such as ill-fitting protective equipment. Women are also underrepresented in OSH decision-making bodies, and regulations tend to focus on male-dominated industries like manufacturing while neglecting sectors with high female participation, such as caregiving.

In the Americas, according to 2020 data, women live an average of 6.2 years longer than men (78.23 years vs. 72.03 years), according to ILO. However, they spend 15.5% of their lives in poor health due to lifelong inequalities that worsen in old age.

Much of this disparity is linked to gender-related factors. Social norms, for instance, expose men to higher tobacco and alcohol consumption, leading to disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) rates three times higher than those of women. Likewise, gender norms increase the burden of certain diseases among women; for example, due to their relatively lower access to cataract treatment, blindness rates are higher among them.

Research shows that women are more likely to develop upper limb musculoskeletal disorders due to repetitive movements in jobs such as manufacturing and healthcare, explains WHO. They are also more susceptible to work-related mental health problems due to psychosocial factors and the dual burden of professional and domestic responsibilities. Additional stressors include workplace violence and sexual harassment, discrimination, undervalued jobs with little control, and emotionally demanding roles.

ILO reports that women have a higher incidence of asthma and allergies due to exposure to chemicals in industries such as cleaning and healthcare, as well as dermatitis due to exposure to chemicals in professions like cleaning and hairdressing. They also have a higher incidence of urinary tract infections and other infectious diseases due to exposure in healthcare settings. Furthermore, they often receive PPE that does not properly fit their anatomy, reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of injury. Women are also more likely to work irregular or night shifts, impacting their physical and mental health due to the dual burden of paid and unpaid labor.

Meanwhile, men are more likely to experience traumatic injuries due to exposure to physical and mechanical risks, such as falls from heights, being struck by objects, and accidents involving heavy machinery, reports ILO. 

ILO states that the integration of a gender perspective in OSH management through transformative measures offers multiple benefits for governments, businesses, and workers.

• For governments: Reduction of inequalities, improvement of public health, and compliance with international regulations

• For companies: Promotion of sustainable development, economic growth, increased productivity, reduction of absenteeism, cost reduction, improved reputation, attraction and retention of talent.

• For workers: Improved health and safety, greater well-being and job satisfaction, reduced stress and burnout, and equal access to development opportunities.