Health and well-being

Twenty-four companies (67%) making some reference to women’s health information and services either in the workplace or in the supply chain, or to a safe and healthy work environment for supply chain workers.

26. Health information and services for employees

Eight companies (22%) publicly mention that they support the health and well-being of their employees, but few refer to the specific needs of women. Six companies (Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail, Fast Retailing, Kering, Nike, Under Armour, and VF Corporation) specify offering its employees mental health services, though it remains unclear what these services cover and what cost burden is left with the employee. Two companies (Under Armour and H&M) mention providing employees with partial or comprehensive fertility benefits.

27. Safe and healthy work environment in the supply chain

Twenty companies (56%) disclose some information on the requirements in place for suppliers to provide a safe and healthy work environment, though the specific needs of their women workers are often not stated. While ten companies require at least three issues, only four companies (Adidas, Costco, PVH and VF Corporation) require suppliers to provide toilets separated by gender, clean drinking water, adequate lighting, personal protective equipment and training on ergonomics or exposure to hazardous materials. Amazon is the only company that mentions suppliers being required to provide workers with transportation. Levi’s is the only company to publicly recommend that suppliers consult with workers on their health needs.

28. Health information and services in the supply chain

Only four companies (American Eagle Outfitters, Ascena Retail Group, Levi’s, and Marks and Spencer Group) make a public commitment to providing health information and services in the supply chain. Ascena Retail Group is the only company to indicate that it provides support to suppliers through health trainings on topics such as breast cancer, HIV awareness and menstrual hygiene, as well as requires suppliers to have an on-site clinic with credentialed health providers where applicable by law.