Choosing workwear for summer

During summer the temperature conditions become an added safety risk at work.

When searching for summer workwear comfortability is very important although the key remains in being safe despite of the heat.

In other words, it is important that the heat doesn’t get in the way of safe labour.

Let’s examine further point by point.

Materials and fabrics for work

The materials used offer different benefits according to the specific needs. These are common examples of the fabrics found in workwear:

- 100% cotton workwear

This is the most widely accepted material.

It is a comfortable, soft and breathable fabric.

It can have different finishes.

It is hypoallergenic, meaning that it will not trigger allergies.

- Polyester

This is a fast-drying synthetic fabric.

It has good elastic properties.

It doesn’t wrinkle.

It is a versatile material, with a similar texture to cotton.

- Nylon

Synthetic fabric.

It has good elastic properties.

It is highly resistant, to the point of being used in ropes.

It can be water-resistant or water-proof.

- Elastane

It is usually combined with other materials in the process of fabricating clothes.

It provides elasticity thus adapting and fitting better to the body.

- Microfibre

A very thin synthetic fabric.

High absorption capacity which maintains the body dry for longer.

What else should you consider?

Aside from the materials used there are other relevant aspects to summer work clothing such as the colour, the seams and the way in which said clothing is constructed.

COLOUR:

On a general note, in the summer it is recommended to use light colours. This is due to the absorption of sun rays, light colours make working more comfortable and cool.

Bicoloured clothes function as a signifier of uniformity and corporative identity, facilitating a sense of belonging within the company and an identification of the different roles involved in the team.

Outside of the company, this allows clients to associate branding with certain colours and types of clothing.

SEWING AND DESIGN

There are garments that have reinforced seams making the fabric more resistant. These reinforcements are usually situated on the knees and the back-side of the fabric.

The twill weaving construction is one of the most commonly used in work trousers. The fibres in the material are intertwined in a way which makes the material more flexible, less prone to wrinkling, adds resistance and tends to have a longer shelf-life.

Although the sizing and fit of the clothing will vary significantly for men and women’s workwear due to the shape and size of the body, some of the properties and characteristics remain the same. The differences would be found in the fit around the back, the chest, the waistline, and so on.

Work trousers for summer

Work trousers must facilitate easy and free movement, otherwise users will be spending more energy and calories in carrying out simple movements. In other words, it’s adding unnecessary effort to already uncomfortable conditions due to the higher temperatures.

The fabrics must be resistant. They tend to be reinforced with special seams that provide safety and durability without compromising the breathability of the fabric.

Trousers with multi-pockets are ideal for carrying a multitude of things on you anywhere, being able to access them easily and quickly.

Trousers or work shorts for summer?

Depending on the conditions of the work itself and the context, shorts may be less adequate due to the risk of cuts, abrasions, burns and so on.

In the case that long trousers are a must, these must be composed of breathable and light fabrics that, at the same time, maintain a good resistance.

The knee-pads found in many work trousers are made of fabrics like cotton which aid movement in that area.

You can browse our wide selection of work trousers here

Work shorts can be a good option in cases like going home from work and vice versa as it allows users an added comfort when travelling whether by car or by foot.

Discover our range of work shorts here

T-shirts for work

Work t-shirts should be made of soft, light and breathable fabrics.

They should allow for comfortable and fluid movement without being too loose-fitting. Loose-fitting clothing could lead to users getting hooked on-to tools or machinery and could cause accidents at work.

It is important that workwear does not directly expose too much skin to the sun, due to the increased risk of sunburn in the summer. The use of sun protection cream is also essential when working outdoors.

It is best to work in shaded areas as well as avoid peak sunlight hours.

You can find a selection of soft and light work T-shirts here

Workwear or Protective Clothing?

If the item of clothing is intended to protect against one or more hazards, then it is defined as protective clothing.

Examples of protective clothing are those used in the following work settings:

- High visibility clothing

- Welding protective clothing

- Arc flash protective clothing

- Electrostatic clothing

- Heat and flame resistant clothing

- Thermal and waterproof clothing for the cold and rain

General recommendations

As mentioned, always use sun protection creams, work in shaded areas and avoid peak sunlight hours when working.

When working in summer, another essential recommendation is to drink plenty of water frequently, do not wait until you feel thirsty.

Furthermore, breaks should be carried out in cool, well-ventilated areas which help by reducing fatigue and allowing workers a satisfactory rest.

Alcohol and stimulant drinks should be avoided at work, as they increase fluid elimination and urination leading to dehydration.

Make the most of your summer with #Safeguru.

Check out our complete selection of breathable and lightweight workwear from leading brands like Caterpillar, Portwest, Dickies and more.

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