Uniforms to Keep Your Employees Cool in Southern California

The summer heat in California can be brutal this time of year, especially for those working outdoors. According to OSHA, thousands of U.S. workers become sick from occupational heat exposure every year. Dressing your employees for the heat is one of the best ways that you can protect your workers and keep them safe. Here are just a few ways to outfit your employees to help them stay cool during the summer.

Comfortable fit

It’s important that your uniforms are the right fit for each individual employee. Properly fitting garments help to ensure that the uniform is loose enough to breathe. The right fit will allow air to flow and keep workers dry, while still being fitted enough to look professional.

Picking the Right Fabrics

When selecting uniforms, you should pick garments that are made with fabrics that are lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Fabrics like cotton and linen are known for being breathable while polyester is quick drying with built-in moisture management and comfort.

Light colors

Don’t force your employees to wear black on a hot summer day. Dark colors tend to absorb heat while light-colored garments tend to reflect light and heat, helping to maintain a normal body temperature.

Cover up

It might seem like the opposite of what you want to do when the sun is blazing, but when working outdoors, workers should be wearing long sleeve shirts and pants. Garments created with lightweight fabrics and a loose fit will help protect their skin from being damaged by sun exposure.

Here are our other tips for staying cool while working in the hot, summer weather!

• Stay hydrated!
• Take plenty of breaks in a cool or shady area.
• Try putting a cool, wet towel around your neck.
• Wear a brimmed hat to block the sun.
• Protect your eyes with sunglasses.
• And don’t forget to wear sunscreen!

A Uniform Program Customized for Your Worker's Needs

At Kleen Kraft Services, we create a customized uniform rental program with garments selected to fit all the specific needs of your workers. If you’re ready to have a uniform program that beats the heat, contact our representatives to get more information and receive a quote today.