How to Choose Clothing Fabric Types For Different Conditions in the Workplace

This guide explains the advantages and disadvantages of different clothing materials to help you determine the types of clothing that you should wear in your work environment. In particular, workers who work in cold and wet conditions should wear clothing that insulates the body or prevents heat loss. So, choose clothing that you can mix and match to handle different conditions in the workplace.

Cotton material is robust or hard-wearing and it can absorb moisture. It is ideal for underwear and other clothing worn next to the skin. However, when cotton gets wet, it becomes heavy. Cotton is made of coarse fabric that does not insulate body heat well, especially when it gets wet

Fleece is lightweight and hard wearing and it is perfect for drawing moisture away from the body to keep the body warm. However, synthetic material burns easily, more than cotton fabric.

Wool fabric is a natural fibre that is perfect for retaining body heat even when it is wet. Unlike fleece, wool does not burn easily. it smoulders. Wet wool does not dry quickly and it can get heavy when it is soaked. If wet wool is worn next to the skin for a prolonged period of time, it can make the skin itch.

Synthetic fabric such as Goretex is good for reducing condensation build up within the jacket and keep rain out. Also, this fabric is usually windproof and it is ideal for wearing on the outside layer. However, if the material is exposed to wet conditions too long, the pores may clog up.

Polypropylene is lightweight and fast drying. It is often worn close to the skin to keep the body warm and it does not absorb moisture. Unfortunately, it holds body smells and burns very easily. Therefore, polypropylene need washing frequently to get rid of body odour.