Most of us have an ‘off duty’ wardrobe. We differentiate between the clothes we wear at work and those we wear at home or out and about in our leisure time. This is usually due to a question of suitability. The outfit we wear to a club or slob around in at home is unlikely to give the right impression at work.
What is suitable will of course depend on a number of factors, including the nature of your organisation and your role within it. If you work within an office, for example, smart casual might be fine. If you work front of house in a restaurant or within the healthcare industry, you might be expected to wear a uniform and if you have a hands-on sort of job you might need protective and practical workwear.
The benefits of a uniform
Not every organisation or role requires a uniform but they can be beneficial for both the employer and employee in a number of situations. A uniform can help customers and others identify you as a member of a particular organisation and it can also present a smart and efficient public face.
From the employee’s point of view, being provided with a uniform can reduce the expense of having to buy their own work-suitable clothes as well as getting rid of the problem of choosing what to wear in the morning.
Practical workwear
Some uniforms and other items of workwear also have practical applications to do with safety, hygiene and utility. Overalls for men and women can protect their own clothes when working in wet or dirty conditions and can also provide an element of protection from certain elements and materials.
Depending on the situation, overalls can be of different weights and thicknesses. Bright colours can aid visibility. They might also be water-proof, impermeable for people working with hazardous chemicals or fire-proof/flame-retardant.
Some may have specially designed pockets and loops and straps for tools.
Practical footwear is also important. People working with heavy loads and tools may be advised to wear solid, steel-capped boots for example and a good grip on the sole is important in a number of different working conditions. Other important workwear accessories can include items such as safety gloves, safety goggles and tool belts.
The ideal workwear will of course depend on what you do but it’s important to dress appropriately whatever the job.
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