The purpose of this paper is to identify the challenging barriers faced by female firefighters, which limit workplace entrance and performance. Occupational barriers from both psychological and physiological viewpoints were explored based on previous literature and the reported experiences of female firefighters. | The current issue and full text archive of this journal is available on Emerald Insight at RJTA 23 2 A critical review of female firefighter protective clothing and equipment workplace challenges 94 Meredith McQuerry Retail Entrepreneurship Florida State University Tallahassee Florida USA Received 24 January 2019 Revised 24 January 2019 Cassandra Kwon Accepted 5 March 2019 Textile Protection and Comfort Center T-PACC North Carolina State University Raleigh North Carolina USA and Heather Johnson Retail Entrepreneurship Florida State University Tallahassee Florida USA Abstract Purpose The purpose of this paper is to identify the challenging barriers faced by female firefighters which limit workplace entrance and performance. Design methodology approach Occupational barriers from both psychological and physiological viewpoints were explored based on previous literature and the reported experiences of female firefighters. Findings A comprehensive review of literature synthesizes previous studies pertaining to gender anthropometric differences female firefighters experiences in the work environment and protective clothing issues. The physical capabilities of men and women in specific relation to performing firefighting activities are also examined. Issues of greatest concern are identified for personal protective clothing PPC and equipment which have traditionally been designed for the male human form. This leads to a lack of protection an increased risk of onsite injury reduction in mobility and poorer comfort for female firefighters. Originality value This review provides an original overview of the critical workplace challenges faced by female firefighters. The need for female-specific PPC and equipment is specifically addressed to retain the growing number of women entering the male-dominated firefighting profession. Keywords Firefighter Female Anthropometrics Protective clothing Protective equipment Sizing Fit Functional clothing Paper type General
