Keeping your employees visible, safe, and warm during the winter months is critical when designing their work uniforms.
It may still be almost 100 degrees out there most days, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be thinking about winter uniforms. In fact, now is the perfect time to think about how you want your winter work uniforms to work and function. Depending on your industry and business practices, your winter uniforms may have to work both indoors and outdoors, functional in all types of weather. Read on for some important factors to consider as you plan your winter uniforms for your staff.
Visibility is Key
The shorter days of winter mean that your employees who have to be outside are much more likely to be out after dark than they are in the summer. Combine this with the increased possibility of weather that makes visibility difficult, and it quickly becomes clear that high-visibility clothing is an essential part of the outdoor winter uniform. At a minimum, you need reflective jackets but if you think your employees might get caught in white-outs, for instance, reflective trousers are also a good choice.
Utilize Layers
If you expect to have employees who have to go in and out of buildings during the winter, you need to have a uniform that utilizes layers. The base of the uniform should be something simple like a polo that is comfortable to wear in most buildings during the winter. This base should be breathable so that as you layer up, the wearer doesn’t get overheated and sweaty. The next layer should be an intermediate layer – a soft shell jacket, windbreaker, or even a vest. This layer should help to keep them warm but not limit their mobility. Finally, the outermost layer needs to be a heavy winter jacket for those people who have to go out in terrible weather. Don’t forget appropriate hats and gloves as well to finish off the uniform.
Don’t Forget the Shoes
For your outdoor employees, having the right shoes could mean the difference between being comfortable and being dangerous. If you’re working outside, you need shoes that are water resistant if not waterproof, sturdy, and warm. Depending on your industry, you may also need to require that the uniform shoes have a thick sole or steel-toe reinforcing. The more requirements that you make of the foot ware, the more you should consider providing it for your employees (even if you currently rent), rather than making them source it themselves.
Uniform Services from Ace Uniform
To give your business a clean, professional, and cohesive look, rely on Ace Uniform. Whether you need uniforms in the food, automotive, industrial, construction, medical, security, or you-name-it industry, we can provide you with the uniforms you need for the price you want. We can also supply your business with high-quality mats and towels. On top of that, Ace offers facility services that can help keep your business place clean and safe. Give us a call at 1-800-366-1616 or visit us online to learn how we can help meet your needs. Want to get to know us even better? Visit us on social media on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and LinkedIn.