Proper construction work clothes are an important part of a worker's safety gear. There are many different types of work clothes that can keep you safe on various job sites, allowing you to do your job while also protecting you from hazards. It is important to choose the right type of clothing for the job to ensure maximum safety.
As a construction worker, you need to be aware of the different types of clothing that are available to you. Construction work can be very dangerous, and you need to make sure that you are dressed appropriately for the job. In this guide, we'll take a look at the different types of clothing that construction workers need to work safely and comfortably on the job site.
What to look for in construction work clothes
High-quality work clothes are an important element of a safe workplace. Take into account the environment in which you will be working and choose the appropriate protection for your body. You’ll need clothes that can meet regulations, reduce the risks of hazards, ensure that you’re able to move easily, and keep you comfortable in any weather.
When looking for safety workwear, consider the following things to ensure your safety and comfort, as well as the safety and comfort of your employees.
Material
If you work in construction, you know that your clothes have to be tough and durable. The materials that your clothes are made from matter just as much as the other aspects, like the style or color. The right material can make a big difference in how comfortable you are on the job and how well your clothes hold up.
There are many different types of materials that can be used for comfortable work clothes. Some of the most common materials include cotton, denim, and polyester. Each of these materials has different benefits and drawbacks that need to be considered when choosing work clothes for industrial job sites.
Cotton is a natural material that is breathable and comfortable to wear. Denim is a durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear, though it’s usually worn underneath hi-vis workwear.
Polyester is a synthetic material that is often cheaper than other options and is more commonly used for construction workwear. It’s also a durable and lightweight material, so you’ll be able to move around easily without worrying about damaging your clothes.
Comfort
Construction work can be physically demanding and uncomfortable, so it is important to wear clothes that are comfortable. Look for comfortable work clothes that are loose and roomy, made from breathable fabrics, and have plenty of pockets. Avoid clothes that are constricting or that might get caught on equipment.
Additionally, it’s important to make sure that the clothes you choose fit you well. You don't want to be constantly adjusting straps, feeling like you can't move freely, or worrying about your workwear trousers sliding down.
By wearing comfortable and well-fitting clothes, you’re less likely to get into an accident at work. Furthermore, you’ll be more productive and focused on your work because you won’t be worrying about your clothes being too tight, too loose, too hot, or too thin. You’ll have a lot fewer distractions, allowing you to be more alert.
Compliance
According to the Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), compliant work safety gear is necessary in any work environment in order to protect employees from potential hazards. It’s important to note that OSHA does not endorse any particular brand of products, but does require that all equipment used in the workplace meets certain standards. You can read more about what OSHA has to say about the matter here.
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) also has a set of standards for hi-vis workwear. ANSI-compliant clothes are designed to meet the requirements set forth in the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z81 Standard for Occupational and Educational Personal Eye and Face Protection Devices. This workwear is usually brightly colored and is intended to be worn in hazardous environments.
High-visibility gear also has three different performance classes. Class 1 gear is intended to be worn in low-risk work environments, while Class 2 gear is made for work in environments where the potential for being struck by a moving vehicle is greater. Class 3 gear is designed for work in high-risk environments, such as those where workers are often exposed to traffic traveling at high speeds.
Weather resistance
If you work outdoors, you know that weather can be a huge factor in how comfortable you are on the job. And while you can't control the weather, you can control what you wear. That's why weather-resistant workwear is so important. It can help you stay dry and comfortable, no matter what the conditions are like.
There are a lot of different options when it comes to weather-resistant workwear. You can choose from a variety of materials, styles, and colors. You can also find weather-resistant workwear for every budget.
Look for weather-resistant workwear that is made from breathable, water-resistant materials. This will help you stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Choose clothing that has plenty of pockets to store your belongings, and be sure to pack extra layers in case the weather takes a turn for the worse.
What not to wear at work
Construction work is a dirty, sweaty job. It can also be dangerous if you don't take the correct precautions. You want to wear clothes that are comfortable and will hold up to the elements. But there are some things you should avoid wearing while working construction.
Baggy clothes
Wearing clothing that is too loose or baggy can be a safety hazard, as it can easily get caught on something. You don't want your clothes to get caught in machinery or on nails, as this can cause injuries and damage your clothes. From your head gear to your top to your workwear trousers down to your boots, everything you wear should fit just right.
Tight clothes
You also want to avoid wearing anything that is too tight. Just because you shouldn’t wear baggy clothes doesn’t mean that you should go in the other direction instead. Clothes that are too tight can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to move around.
In general, ill-fitting clothes can be a distraction that can take your focus away from your work. This can cause you to ignore hazardous situations that you’ll be able to notice if you were more comfortable.
Open-toe footwear or flip-flops
It's also important to wear closed-toe shoes and avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops. Make sure your shoes are closed-toe, slip-resistant, and not heeled. Slips and falls are among the most common causes of injuries on industrial job sites, and the right footwear can go a long way in keeping you from slipping.
Jewelry
Avoid wearing jewelry. Not only can it get caught on things and cause injuries, but it can also go missing on the job site. Make sure that you remove rings, watches, necklaces, earrings, nose rings, and the like before you leave the locker room.
Better yet, leave these things at home, especially if they’re valuable. It’s best to ensure that once you put on your construction work clothes, jewelry is not part of the outfit.
