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Did you know that there’s a higher chance of injury with women’s shoes, because they are designed differently? Or that kitchen appliances with weak cybersecurity systems can be hacked, posing a threat to a family’s security? These scenarios, along with many others, were explored during the recent workshop on Inclusiveness in Product Safety, hosted by the European Commission. The workshop brought together a diverse group of professionals, including manufacturers, designers, and market surveillance experts, all focused on one common goal: making products safer and more accessible to everyone. Paulina Zdybał, one of the designers at Husarska Design Studio, attended the event in Brussels, engaging in thought-provoking discussions about the evolving landscape of product safety and inclusivity.
The event served as an insightful platform for sharing perspectives on the recent changes to the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) and understanding its impact on product design. As part of the discussions, the topic of inclusive design took center stage. “Design for All” was emphasized throughout the workshop, underscoring the importance of designing products and services that are usable by as many people as possible, regardless of their age, ability, or background. This approach not only ensures broader accessibility but also promotes equality in safety and comfort for everyone. The session stressed that inclusive product safety goes beyond simply meeting general safety standards—it’s about ensuring that those standards include the diverse body shapes, abilities, and cultural backgrounds of the people using them.
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Hosted by Pinuccia Contino (DG JUST), the event featured several influential speakers who shared their insights on various aspects of product inclusivity and safety:
Inclusive technical standards—based on real, reliable data—are essential in crafting products that meet the needs of diverse users. However, experts pointed out that the concept of inclusivity must also embrace the reality that human beings are inherently unequal, and the challenge lies in designing products that provide equal safety and comfort for everyone.
At Husarska Design Studio, we align with the insights shared at the workshop, emphasizing a human-centered design approach in all our projects. We believe in observing, testing, and iterating products with real users, ensuring that our designs meet their needs in both functionality and safety. By applying these principles, we aim to create products that are not only innovative but also accessible and secure for all.
The European Commission’s workshop served as a reminder that designing for inclusivity is not a one-step solution; it requires collective effort and commitment. As we strive to create a safer, more inclusive world through product design, it’s clear that these discussions and collaborations are just the beginning. The future of product safety is one where inclusivity and security go hand in hand.
