In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of menstrual hygiene in the workplace. Despite menstruation being a natural biological process, many professional environments fail to provide adequate support for employees who menstruate. One simple yet impactful solution is the installation of a sanitary pad vending machine or FreeVend FlexCare dispensers in workplace washrooms.
More businesses across South Africa are adopting this approach, ensuring that employees, customers, and visitors have easy access to essential sanitary products. Let’s explore four key reasons why offering free sanitary products in your business can improve inclusivity, increase hygiene levels, and contribute to workplace wellness.
1. Creating Inclusive and Comfortable Workspaces
A lack of access to menstrual products in public and workplace washrooms can lead to discomfort, embarrassment, and even absenteeism. In South Africa, where period poverty remains a significant issue, businesses can play a vital role in addressing this challenge.
Access to proper sanitary facilities is essential for people to work, shop, travel, or engage in social activities with confidence. Without access to period products in these settings, individuals may experience discomfort or embarrassment and, in some cases, might even avoid certain environments altogether.
For employees, the absence of adequate washroom amenities can lead to distractions, decreased job satisfaction, and higher absenteeism—61% of Australians are more inclined to work from home if their workplace lacks essential hygiene provisions.1 Similarly, for customers and visitors, limited access to period products can affect their experience, potentially reducing repeat visits and impacting brand perception. In fact, 44% of menstruating teenagers in the U.S. have reported feelings of stress and embarrassment due to a lack of access to period products.
Even when sanitary products are available, individuals prefer to choose options that best suit their needs. Factors such as flow levels, absorbency, comfort, sensitivity, and personal or cultural beliefs influence product choices. By understanding your audience and providing the right solutions, you can foster a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
2. Meeting Rising Expectations for Workplace Support
Modern workplaces are expected to prioritise diversity, equity, and inclusion. Millennials and Gen Z employees, in particular, are more likely to align themselves with brands that embrace these values. A study found that 75% of Gen Z applicants consider a company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion when deciding where to work.
As these generations push for more inclusive environments, the trend of providing free sanitary product vending has gained momentum on social media, with brands receiving praise for adopting this initiative. As awareness grows, so do expectations regarding menstrual hygiene accessibility. For instance:
- 56% of menstruating individuals express a desire for free sanitary products in public washrooms to support proper menstrual hygiene.2
- 89% of U.S. teenagers who menstruate believe period products should be as readily available as toilet paper and soap.
- 52% of menstruating women agree that businesses with public washrooms should take greater steps to support menstrual hygiene.3
With more people looking to businesses to provide these essentials, companies have an opportunity to enhance their reputation and foster positive brand perception by meeting these expectations. Going a step further by offering a choice of products can improve inclusivity and exceed consumer expectations.
3. Encouraging Better Hygiene Practices
Maintaining proper menstrual hygiene is essential, as using products with the right absorbency and changing them regularly helps prevent health risks such as skin irritation, urinary tract infections, and toxic shock syndrome. However, when sanitary products are not easily accessible or come at a cost, individuals may resort to unhygienic practices. For example:
- Wearing period products longer than advised – A charity survey found that 1 in 4 individuals kept their sanitary products on for longer than recommended.
- Using unsanitary alternatives – In a UK poll, 80% of girls aged 14–21 admitted to using toilet paper as a substitute for period products, while 12% had used socks and 10% had turned to newspaper or other paper materials.
- Wearing period products preemptively – To avoid being caught off guard in public, 79% of menstruating women reported using sanitary products in advance of their period starting.
Providing free vending machines in washrooms especially when offering a choice of two products ensures that individuals can access the options that best suit their needs. This accessibility can also promote better hygiene practices by encouraging more frequent product changes, helping to maintain overall menstrual health.
4. Legislative Trends Supporting Free Sanitary Products
Governments worldwide are increasingly recognising the importance of providing free menstrual hygiene products in various sectors. While initial efforts focused on schools, universities, and workplaces, Scotland made history as the first country to offer free period products to anyone in need.
Workplace Legislation on Free Menstrual Products
In 2021, Canada amended the Canada Labour Code, requiring federally regulated employers to provide menstrual products at no cost to employees while they are at work.
Free Menstrual Products in Schools and Universities
Several countries have implemented policies to ensure students have access to free period products, helping to reduce absenteeism linked to period poverty. Examples include:
- New Zealand – The Ikura | Manaakitia te Whare Tangata initiative ensures students in state and state-integrated schools have access to free pads, tampons, and liners.
- Kenya – The Basic Education Amendment Act mandates government-provided sanitary towels in schools.
- France – Since 2021, French universities have been required to install free tampon and pad dispensers in dormitories and campus health centres.
These initiatives highlight the increasing global commitment to addressing period poverty and improving menstrual health.
Considerations When Implementing Free Sanitary Product Dispensers
If your business is considering providing free sanitary products, here are a few factors to keep in mind:
Providing Safe and Clear Guidance
When making sanitary products freely available, it’s important to include clear instructions on how to use them safely. Providing guidance on proper usage helps prevent health risks such as toxic shock syndrome.
Choosing the Right Products for Your Workplace
People have different needs and preferences when it comes to menstrual hygiene. Some may prefer tampons with or without applicators, while others may require incontinence pads. Offering a variety of options ensures inclusivity and accessibility for all washroom users.
Managing Stock Levels Efficiently
Keeping washroom dispensers stocked can be challenging, as demand may vary. Opting for a serviced solution allows a provider to monitor usage and replenish supplies as needed, ensuring consistent availability.
Maintaining Hygiene Standards
Public washrooms can harbour bacteria and germs, which can spread through airborne particles when toilets are flushed. To keep sanitary products protected from contamination, use dispensers that store them in a clean and dry environment.
Customisable Free Vending with FreeVend FlexCare
Our innovative free vending solution, FreeVend FlexCare, allows you to dispense any two sanitary products of your choice, including sanitary pads and tampons.
Our service includes expert guidance on current legislation, an analysis of washroom usage to help determine your stock requirements, and regular visits to replenish supplies with premium-quality products.
If you’re looking for the ideal free vending dispenser for your business, speak to one of our experts today.
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