When it comes to safety workwear, fit is everything. Not only can ill-fitting equipment and clothing lead to discomfort, but they also pose serious risks to your safety on the job.

 

This needs to be the responsibility of everyone at a worksite. The individual worker needs to make sure their equipment fits well, according to the below guide. If it doesn’t, they should flag it immediately with their site manager and/or boss.

 

Meanwhile, the bosses also need to make sure that everyone is reporting that their clothing and equipment is a proper fit, and routinely checking in to make sure that it remains the case.

 

Why Fit Matters in Safety Workwear

 

Safety workwear, whether flame resistant clothing, clothing to protect against electricity, chemicals, or anything else, serves multiple purposes beyond just protection—it is designed to support your body’s movements, provide visibility, and offer comfort during long hours on the job. Ill-fitting workwear can increase your risk of accidents and injuries by:

 

  • Limiting movement, causing fatigue and loss of agility
  • Creating tripping or snagging hazards
  • Reducing visibility if high-visibility elements are obscured or not properly aligned
  • Failing to cover critical areas, such as arms, legs, and torso, for protection from environmental hazards

 

In short, proper fit isn’t just a matter of comfort—it’s a key component of workplace safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your safety workwear fits as it should.

 

1. Choose the Right Size for Each Garment

 

One of the first and most important steps in achieving a good fit is selecting the right size for each piece of workwear. Remember that workwear brands may vary in sizing, so always refer to the specific brand’s sizing chart. When purchasing online, check the retailer’s size guide and compare it to your body measurements.

Here’s how to measure yourself accurately:

  • Chest/Bust: Wrap the tape measure under your arms and measure the fullest part of your chest, keeping the tape parallel to the ground.
  • Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist.
  • Hips: Measure around the widest part of your hips.
  • Inseam: For trousers and overalls, measure from the crotch to the bottom of your leg.

 

If you fall between two sizes, consider the specific garment type and material. Some items, like coveralls, may require a larger size for unrestricted movement, while others, like gloves, should fit snugly without extra room.

 

2. Consider Your Job’s Physical Demands

 

Different jobs have unique physical demands, which means your workwear fit should allow for the full range of movement required. For example:

  • Construction Workers and Electricians: Your work may require constant bending, squatting, and reaching. Look for trousers with a flexible waistband and articulated knees, and opt for tops that allow for arm and shoulder mobility.
  • Outdoor and Heavy-Duty Workers: If you work outdoors, layering is important. Choose slightly larger sizes to allow for layers, especially in winter, but avoid excessively loose clothing to prevent snagging hazards.

Fit adjustments can make a difference here, especially for jobs where freedom of movement is crucial.

 

3. Check for Adjustability Features

 

High-quality safety workwear often includes adjustable features designed to help you achieve the right fit. Look for workwear with these elements:

 

  • Adjustable Cuffs and Waistbands: These provide a snug, custom fit that prevents loose fabric from catching on equipment or materials.
  • Velcro and Button Fastenings: Ideal for jackets and pants, they allow you to adjust the garment for a tighter or looser fit as needed.
  • Stretch Panels: Many modern workwear items feature stretch fabric panels, which allow for flexibility while keeping the garment secure. This is especially useful for trousers and tops that need to accommodate bending and stretching movements.

 

These adjustments make it easier to maintain a secure fit without sacrificing flexibility.

 

4. Layer Up Correctly

 

In Australia, temperatures can vary greatly, especially if your job requires you to move between indoor and outdoor environments. Proper layering is essential for safety and comfort, but it also needs to fit well.

 

  • Base Layers: Your base layer should be snug without restricting movement, as it acts as a foundation to keep you dry and comfortable.
  • Mid Layers: Choose a mid-layer that isn’t too bulky, so it doesn’t interfere with outer layers or restrict movement. Fleece jackets and vests are excellent options.
  • Outer Layers: Your outermost layer, often high-visibility or weather-resistant gear, should be large enough to fit comfortably over your inner layers without being oversized. Too-loose outer layers can impair visibility and pose snagging risks.

 

Ensuring each layer fits correctly helps maintain mobility and provides adequate protection without overheating or bunching.

 

5. Ensure Visibility Standards Are Met

 

In certain high-risk environments, high-visibility (hi-vis) clothing is required for safety. The visibility elements—such as reflective strips—should be positioned correctly on your body when the garment is properly fitted. Here are some key points to check:

 

  • Alignment: Reflective strips should align with your torso, arms, and legs. If the strips are too low or high, they may not provide optimal visibility.
  • Snug Fit: Hi-vis vests and jackets should fit securely to prevent reflective elements from shifting out of place.
  • Colour Contrast: Ensure that hi-vis clothing is bright and clearly visible during day and night conditions. A loose fit can cause the fabric to fold or crease, reducing visibility.

 

6. Consider Workwear Materials for Comfort and Safety

 

Workwear materials can impact both comfort and fit, so it’s important to consider fabrics that offer breathability, flexibility, and durability. For instance:

 

  • Cotton Blends: Cotton is breathable and comfortable, ideal for warm environments. However, 100% cotton may shrink after washing, so opt for cotton blends that are pre-shrunk or have added stretch for flexibility.
  • Polyester Blends and Ripstop Fabric: Polyester and synthetic blends offer durability and resistance to tears and abrasions. Ripstop fabric, often used in pants, resists snagging and tearing, but ensure it doesn’t feel too stiff, as this can restrict movement.
  • Moisture-Wicking Fabrics: For those working in hot environments, moisture-wicking fabrics can help keep you dry and comfortable. These fabrics are generally designed to fit close to the body, so check that they don’t feel overly tight.

 

7. Try on Workwear Before Committing

 

Finally, if possible, try on your workwear before committing to a purchase. Make sure to test for common work-related movements—squat, stretch, and twist to ensure there is no restriction. Pay attention to any areas that feel tight or loose, and adjust sizing accordingly. If shopping online, confirm the return and exchange policy, as fit issues may only become apparent after you’ve worn the gear for a while.

 

Finally, if you have any questions, reach out and ask us! At NECA Trade Services, we are specialists with a long heritage in providing high-quality workwear options tailored to meet the demands of various trades. We can help you find the right fit, and that can make all the difference, both to your personal safety, and the business health of your employer.