Industrial clothing includes work place clothing, uniforms and professional address. Examples include coveralls for industrial workers and mechanics, lab coats, waitress uniforms and fire-resistant clothing for first responders. Some industrial clothing is even regulated by OSHA. Others have special consideration regarding the type of work and appearance. Let’s look at a few examples.
OSHA Requirements for Industrial Uniforms
OSHA has a lot of regulations pertaining to workplace safety. For instance, manufacturers and automotive shops have to keep written plans and safety equipment for potential hazards employees face on the job. Businesses have to provide industry specific safety equipment. This includes everything from goggles to noise reduction devices.
Because of these regulations and in response to common hazards, most mechanics and factory workers wear protective clothing or body suits to avoid contaminating to keep toxic and noxious chemicals off the skin. Workers in factories wear uniforms that won’t catch in machinery.
Commonly known as coveralls, the industrial clothing for mechanics and industrial workers should be comfortable, temperature controlled to avoid heat exhaustion and durable enough to survive months or years in the garage, factory or warehouse.
Waitress Uniforms
Whether you are a restaurant manager selecting a new uniform for all servers, or a waiter or waitress picking out uniforms to meet a dress code, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Servers hired at a restaurant are sometimes given uniforms to wear. Other times they are given a list of guidelines to follow and told to purchase their own clothing. If you are a server, you should get the dress code in writing. If you have a lot of freedom with the restaurant dress code, there are still considerations you should account for in your final selection of industrial clothing that suits restaurant work.
Go to the restaurant to observe what current servers are wearing. Note good and bad examples so that you can avoid looking sloppy, dated or unattractive. As an example, black dress pants and a denim shirt provide a casual, professional look that is easier to maintain than lighter colors.
A formal uniform may incorporate dress pants, a button-up shirt and a vest for servers, with an option to where a skirt or dress for women. Depending on your freedom of choice, push the limits to include the most comfortable options that do not compromise a professional appearance.
Ask the Experts
Select industrial clothing for your employees or yourself can be a daunting task. Lean on your supplier to tips specific to your industry, since they deal with many businesses and could have some great advice. Don’t be afraid to observe the competition and take away the best practices you notice to help you make a final decision. Remember that the uniforms represent your company as much as the employee and choose wisely.
