Lets talk about periods.

"In 2024 this should not be a challenge that women in construction still need to face at any level. As an advocate for women in trades, women's health, periods and mental health, I have been sharing some of what I have observed and experienced onsite throughout my 6 years in construction.
I do this in the hopes that the industry will improve and become more inclusive for future generations of anyone who chooses to work in the industry.

A big positive for me going back to commercial from residential was having female only bathrooms and having access to a sanitary bin and a sink with running water and soap, although this is not always the case on all commercial sites, it was still a noticeable difference.

It absolutely blows my mind that the majority of the time when you work residentially you have portaloos on-site that don't come with sanitary bins (or sinks/soap) unless asked for, which generally comes at a cost. The amount of times I've had to shove used sanitary products into my pockets and make a beeline for a bin without others noticing is ridiculous.
Some smaller sites don’t even have a portaloo.

This is something I will not be quiet about anymore as it is a massive issue and it's a basic right to have access to a sanitary bin at your place of work, however for many people who bleed on a monthly basis throughout the country this is still not accessible.

For those who are happy to chuck a used sanitary item in an external bin or down a portaloo that's fine, that's what we do when we have no other option but it shouldn't even be the case to start with. I'm not saying it's not doable without a sanitary bin because time and time again we prove we as women can adapt to situations but I am saying it's not providing an inclusive workplace environment in any sense of the word and to be completely honest it's not okay.

We need to be having more conversations which spark action regarding this, if not to help ourselves then to help future women who are coming through the trades industry. It would be great to see some of the larger construction companies lead by example and show others the way.

I would be happy to connect if you have further thoughts on this topic, feel free to reach out on LinkedIn."

Willow Rolton
Qualified dogman, and crane operator.
Previous Chapter Chair for NAWIC Queenstown Lakes.