New workplace standards for menopause and menstruation support are launched

The British Standards Institute (BSI) has published a new workplace standard titled ‘BS 30416, Menstruation, menstrual health and menopause in the workplace‘, it recognises the challenges, symptoms and experiences of both menopause and menstrual health and how these can affect women in the workplace.

BS 30416 is a free, practical toolkit for businesses of all sizes and sectors. Developed by experts in the field of menstruation, menopause, HR and occupational health and academics, it aims to help organisations identify the misconceptions around menstruation and menopause. It also identifies the impact of stigma surrounding these topics on workplace cultures and support.

The standard helps businesses to take action to make their workplace more inclusive. It contains examples of actions and adjustments that can improve employees’ wellbeing. Examples include:

• Physical aspects of work

• Policy guidance and practices

• Supportive workplace cultures

• Work design

• Inclusivity

• Evaluation and metrics