Choosing the Right Overall

Features and fabric to look at when choosing the right overall for your workers.

There are a variety of industries that require that perfect overall for their employees to work in, but choosing a particular type isn't always that easy. To most of us an overall, or boiler suit, is just that, but in the industry there are a selection of products to choose from.

You have to think of what type of environment your workers are going to be in, whether it's boiling hot, or freezing cold, the suits have to add some protection. Another important factor is to also look at durability.

Overalls should be made out of a mix of polyester and cotton, and have a coating that will ensure water and stain resilience. Teflon is a good option for this. It is also CFC free, which means it does not use chlorofluorocarbons. This makes it "ozone safe".

Teflon coating does not affect the breathing ability of the fabric and makes the cloth durable in the wash. Other things to look for are the construction features of the overall. Make sure that the stress points and joints are reinforced. Tabs should ideally cover zips, buttons and studs so they don't snag on equipment. Cuffs should be able to be turned back if needed, so check for stud closure.

Little things such as a hammer loop and phone holster will be useful for most overalls in an industry. You can never have such a thing as too many pockets. Remember, that workers will be in their suits for long periods, day in and day out, so comfort has just as an important role as durability.

The back piece should be looked at, as workers will probably have to bend over a lot, pick things up, and so forth, so having enough space for move ability is vital. Check if the overall also has any side elastics and tunnel waistbands. The overall will need to move and flex with the body and become almost a second skin.

Fire resistance, warmth, and kneepads are also options. To be able to pick the right overall, you need to consider what the workers will be doing, where will they be and how they are going to do it. Each industry has its own needs and concerns but at the end of the day the overall needs to act as protective gear before any other consideration.

It is what prevents a slight burn from becoming a third degree one and a small cut from being large. They need to be able to move freely and work without having to worry about what they are wearing and how they are going to get that axel grease stain out. Choosing the right overall is as important to a company as choosing the right equipment.

Celeste writes for Dickies Store, who specialise in Workwear and Protective Clothing for a variety of industrial companies.