Choosing the Proper Summer Work Clothes

As the days begin to get warmer with summer on the way, many of us with outdoor jobs begin to switch out our winter work clothing to workwear a little more appropriate. The sunny days mean you’ll be swapping the big heavy Carhartt jacket, gloves, and insulated boots for work shorts and lighter workwear shirts.

Showing up at the job site with the wrong clothes on is just as bad as coming to work with the wrong tools. While, you want to be sure that your work clothing looks professional, comfort and safety are also important. You want clothing that provides adequate protection and is appropriate for the job at hand.  Continue reading below…

If you spend all day carrying tools or supplies around a building site, then you want clothing that doesn’t restrict you. Keep in mind though you don’t want them to be loose as baggy shirts and jeans can get caught on moving mechanical parts which can lead to severe injuries, if not death. Also you don’t want to wear too-light of weight clothing which can leave you exposed to cuts from sharp corners or burns from flying sparks.

Comfort
Your work clothes should be comfortable since you’ll be in them all day under the hot sun. While you would ultimately like as little heavy clothing as possible for the warmer weather, I prefer additional padding in certain areas such as the knees. It makes those long days seem a little easier. Ensure you have plenty of movement in both your jeans and shirts, but not to loose as stated above,  so that you are not restricted in any way. If you feel like you cannot effectively and efficiently perform a task, then your clothing is wrong for the job.

The right clothes for the job
Some jobs permit shorts to be worn. In these instances, they should be durable and have tool pockets. Perhaps you need to carry a pencil or mobile phone while at work as a plumber or electrician, details such as pockets and buckles become even more important.

Quality clothing
Summer work shirts usually consist of either a T-shirt or polo shirt. Again, we are aiming for comfortable and durable. Try not to wear an old out-of-shape T-shirt. It simply does not make a good impression on you or your company. Choose shirts made of a good quality which won’t fade quickly or lose their shape.

Accessories
As well as shirts, jeans, and shorts, don’t forget your other accessories. Lightweight gloves, a cap to protect you from the sun, knee pads, tool pouches and ID card holders may all be required.

Now you know how to improve your summer work clothing and ensure your workwear shirts and shorts are up to the task, the only thing left to decide is who is going on the coffee run!

Todd

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