Workwear Buying Guide by Industry

Date: 05.05.2026 10:01
Workwear Buying Guide by Industry
A comprehensive guide to choosing workwear styles, fabric standards and the right sizes by industry, from construction and food to electrical and logistics.
Quick answer

Choose workwear according to the risks of the job: flame-retardant (EN ISO 11612 / EN ISO 14116) for welding and petrochemicals, antistatic (EN 1149) for electrical work and explosive atmospheres, and hi-vis (EN ISO 20471) for traffic and construction sites. In food processing, hygiene and resistance to high-temperature washing are the key factors. Check the fit at the shoulders, lower back, sleeves and front length in the working position. For logos, embroidery is long-lasting; on flame-retardant garments, printing may compromise the protective properties.

The right workwear should improve employee comfort and also meet legal requirements. This guide covers workwear models by industry, fabric properties, standards and what to look out for when buying.

What Is Workwear?

Workwear is the general term for specialised clothing designed to protect employees from workplace risks, reflect corporate identity and allow freedom of movement. Coveralls, work trousers, work coats, work shirts and bib overalls all fall into this category.

Key Fabric Properties and Standards

PropertyStandardApplication
Flame-retardant (FR)EN ISO 11612 / EN ISO 14116Oil and gas, chemicals, welding
AntistaticEN 1149Electrical, electronics, explosive atmospheres
Hi-visEN ISO 20471Construction, traffic, roadworks
AntibacterialHACCP-compliantFood, healthcare, cleaning
Water and wind resistanceSoftshell / laminated fabricOutdoor work, logistics, security

Workwear Models by Industry

Construction and Building Sites

High visibility and physical durability are the top priorities. Work trousers with reinforced knees and multi-pocket coveralls are essential kit.

  • Coverall with reflective tape (EN ISO 20471 Class 2 or 3)
  • Work trousers with knee pad pockets
  • Work coat with a secure fastening system

Electrical and Energy

Because of the risk of arc flash and electrostatic discharge, flame-retardant and antistatic fabric is mandatory.

  • FR-AS (flame-retardant + antistatic) coverall
  • Belt buckles with no metal parts

Food Production and Kitchens

Hygiene and HACCP compliance are the deciding criteria.

  • Antibacterial white or light-coloured coverall
  • Models with a limited number of pockets (reduces the risk of foreign objects)
  • Fabric that withstands washing at 60°C or higher

Logistics, Warehousing and Forklift Operation

Freedom of movement and a multi-functional pocket design are the priorities.

  • Cargo trousers with stretch waistband
  • Softshell jacket or insulated bib overalls
  • Vest with reflective details

Healthcare and Hospitals

Antibacterial properties, easy washing and liquid resistance are the key requirements. Scrub sets and lab coats are the standard clothing in this sector.

Security and Protection Services

Corporate identity comes first, but tactical functionality is also expected. Multi-pocket cargo trousers, a softshell jacket and badge/logo application make up the standard set.

Size Selection and Ergonomics

  • Shoulder width: Should not restrict movement and should allow additional loads to be carried.
  • Back length: The back should not be exposed when bending forward.
  • Sleeve length: Should be long enough when wearing gloves and holding tools.
  • Front length: Should not pull at the waist when crouching.

Logo and Corporate Personalisation

Embroidery

Long-lasting and wash-resistant. Ideal for areas with dense fabric, such as pocket flaps and shoulders.

Printing

Suitable for detailed multi-colour designs. Note: On FR garments, printing may impair the protective properties.

FAQ

Should workwear be provided by the employer?

In Türkiye, yes for work clothing that qualifies as PPE. Under the Turkish PPE Regulation, personal protective equipment identified through risk assessment must be provided free of charge by the employer (Art. 6/1-e); Law No. 6331 also states that the cost of occupational health and safety measures cannot be passed on to employees (Art. 4/4). For corporate clothing without a protective function, the situation may vary depending on the employment contract and workplace practice; if in doubt, consult your legal adviser. To record handover, you can use our PPE issue record tool.

Should I choose a coverall or work trousers?

A coverall offers superior protection in environments with a high risk of soiling and splashes. Work trousers offer greater freedom of movement and are preferred where changing the upper garment is necessary.

Does flame-retardant clothing deteriorate with normal washing?

Yes, it can deteriorate with improper care. Bleach and high-temperature drying permanently destroy the FR properties. Washing on a 40°C programme with liquid detergent is the general recommendation.

What should I do if the strips on my hi-vis clothing are fading?

EN ISO 20471 defines the minimum photometric values the strips must meet after a specified number of washes. Yellowing or cracking indicates that these values are no longer met; the garment should be replaced immediately.

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