Mechanics carry out a variety of tasks, maintaining or repairing everything from machinery to vehicles in factories, garages, body shops, on production lines, or even in agricultural settings. These skilled professionals typically wear mechanic workwear, and here we answer the questions you may have surrounding mechanics clothing and overalls.
Why Do Mechanics Wear Overalls?
If you are a mechanic, then you will want to wear overalls to protect yourself from hazards so you can stay clean and carry out your duties safely.
Mechanic’s overalls are designed to protect your skin and your regular clothing from dirt, grime, oil, grease, harsh chemicals, and possibly paint if painting tasks are conducted in your working environment.
Mechanic clothing also protects your arms, body, and legs if you crawl or work on the ground. If working on the ground is a regular part of your job, then it pays dividends to look for mechanics overalls or trousers that incorporate knee pad pockets. If sparks or flames are created in your workspace, then flame-retardant mechanic workwear will be required.
Aside from protecting your health, mechanics workwear also brings a good level of convenience to you. Mechanic uniforms incorporate pockets for frequently used tools, saving you time running back and forth to your toolbox, saving you energy, and boosting your productivity. Furthermore, if you work in a team, then good mechanic uniforms create a professional and uniformed appearance.
Why Are Mechanic’s Overalls Always Dark Colours?
Dark colours, and in particular blue, are chosen by many professions. The colour blue is believed to represent or develop trust, dependability, obligation, and commitment, which are all traits highly valued by those needing your service.
What Are Mechanics Overalls Made From?
Mechanics overalls are made from a blend of cotton and synthetic fibres, designed for keeping you clean, comfortable, and safe. Ideally, you want mechanics workwear that is breathable yet tough.
Cotton is often preferred over polyester and oil-based fabrics, which allow petroleum to bond easily with them, creating permanent stains and having flammability and melting risks. However, specific blends of nylon and polyester are formulated in a way that makes them flame-resistant and safe.
If you want to maximise comfort and flexibility, then choose mechanics’ overalls that include stretchable fabrics such as Lycra, elastase, or spandex.
High-visibility panels on your clothing are required if you work in an area with moving vehicles, machinery, or equipment. These are usually identified as Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3, based on the total area covered by the high-visibility material.
Insulated mechanic workwear and mechanic’s jackets are available for those who work outdoors or in an open-to-the-elements workshop or garage.
Is It Safe To Wear Shorts As A Mechanic?
It is generally not safe to wear shorts in almost all mechanic’s environments. Trousers or overalls are a better option, providing ankle to waist or ankle to shoulder protection. If you have a tendency to feel hot when working or restricted in your movement, then choose mechanics tops with back vents and overalls with unique crotch and armpit segments that aid manoeuvrability.
What Workwear Is Required When You Work In A Garage?
Depending on your working environment and tasks, you should wear a long or short-sleeved shirt and trousers, mechanic overalls, or one-piece coveralls.
If you are carrying out tasks such as welding, then flame-resistant mechanic workwear is needed. Flame retardant workwear is also required in environments where electric arcs and ignitable particles or vapours exist.
You may also be required to wear PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as goggles, safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, head protection, and safety boots or shoes. If the workplace risk assessment indicates that PPE is needed, then the employer has a responsibility to provide this.
What To Wear Under Your Overalls?
You can wear your regular clothes or a mechanics shirt and trousers under your overalls. If you wear mechanic’s overalls, then it is advantageous to select those with an elasticated waist to prevent risks of loose clothing being caught in moving machinery or equipment.
To discuss your mechanic workwear rental requirements, please get in touch with our team today.