Choosing a mid-season work jacket to withstand the wet and windy spring and fall weather conditions is often a challenge.
This is especially true when it comes to safety clothing, as it fulfils a protective role that goes beyond bad weather.
Whether it's a mid-season work or safety coat , focus on quality and take into account the following 5 characteristics :
- Weather resistance
- Breathability
- Visibility
- The functionality
-
Sustainability
These properties determine in particular one of the most important factors when making your choice: the comfort of your staff .
Resistance to bad weather: wind, rain, cold
A mid-season work coat should provide sufficient protection against bad weather such as rain, wind and cold to keep you warm and dry. It is therefore important to choose a waterproof, lightly insulated and wind-resistant coat .
Materials like Gore-Tex, Rain Repel technology, and nylon are often used for their water and wind resistance. However, polyester and polyurethane are also used in the manufacture of these garments, as is nylon. For insulation, check the cotton density and the presence of a lining, such as fleece.
It is also best if the coat has a hood to protect the head . If your staff also needs to wear a safety helmet , consider choosing work jackets with a hood that fits accordingly.
Breathability
The transitional work jacket should also be breathable to prevent overheating during medium to intense physical activities.
- Breathable materials like polyester are preferred. They retain body heat while keeping the wearer dry, and in some cases, they are also waterproof. If you work in a sheltered environment, cotton may also be an option.
-
However, synthetic insulation , while offering the characteristic of breathability, ensures faster drying for personnel whose activities are more intense.
Ideally, it is important to ensure that the coat fits snugly at the wrists, neck and waist to prevent cold drafts.
Likewise, it is preferable that it has ventilated sections in the areas where perspiration is greatest (armpits and back) to let excess heat escape.
Visibility and safety
Visibility is an important factor in ensuring worker safety . Therefore , it is advisable to choose a coat with reflective elements or a bright color to ensure visibility even in low light conditions.
The same selection criteria should be considered for mid-season safety coats . The goal remains comfort, but the level of risk to which workers are exposed, in addition to the climatic conditions, must also be taken into account. In particular, whether they must be flame-resistant to withstand very high temperatures .
HUSKY has work jackets for all seasons and according to the classes governed by the CSA Z96-15 standard.
The functionality
Finally, the mid-season, work, and safety coat must be functional to meet the specific needs of workers. It adjusts to the range of motion, but also stays in place to facilitate everyday movements. It includes:
- Convenient pockets for storing tools or accessories can be very useful.
- Easily accessible exterior pockets .
- Strong zippers and sliders to withstand repeated handling , but also sealed to prevent the interior from getting soggy.
- Reinforced areas to resist friction related to work activities.
- Adjustments with straps or cords for the waist , wrists , neck and head ( hood). The work coat must be adaptable depending on the underlayers of clothing.
Finally, the durability of the mid-season work coat
In summary, when choosing a work coat suitable for spring and fall, it's important to consider weather resistance, breathability, visibility, and functionality. Remember that these factors ensure employee comfort and, consequently, optimal productivity.
Finally, opt for durability . Good work coats are designed and tested to resist snags and tears . While more expensive at the time, you'll notice a longer lifespan.
Also remember to insist with the staff on the maintenance of the coat to preserve its protective and comfort properties . The manufacturer's instructions must be followed to ensure the longevity of the work jacket.
