How to Choose the Best Protective Coverall?
Table of Contents
Top Best Protective Coverall Based on Reviews and Price
Why You Need a Good Protective Coverall?
Some workers are exposed to hazardous chemicals, infectious diseases, and other elements that can compromise their health and safety if they don’t wear the right protective gear. Aside from the mask, protective eyewear, and gloves, workers should wear PPE or personal protective equipment to keep themselves safe and protected.
Many workplaces require wearing PPE like protective coveralls for specific work processes. You don’t just purchase the first item you see online or in the store. You must have some knowledge of protective coveralls. To help you find one, we have written this guide, so you will have some idea of what to consider when choosing the best protective coverall.
10 Factors to Consider When Buying a Protective Coverall
1. Types of Fabrics
The two popular materials used in making protective coverall are polypropylene and Tyvek. They are grouped based on how the fabric is constructed – MPF or SMS.
SMS Coveralls
The term SMS means spun bound- melt blown-spun bound fabric. It uses a melt-blown polypropylene layer placed in between two polypropylene layers. As a result, it is a durable and sturdy material with strong barrier properties. This type of coverall is breathable with added air permeability.
MPF Coveralls
The term MPF means microporous fabric, which is made of thin microporous film attached to a spun bound polypropylene base. This fabric is not as breathable as SMS because it has very low air permeability.
Tyvek Coveralls
DuPont is the manufacturer of Tyvek. It is a high-density polyethylene fiber attached to the use of heat. Because it is not layered or woven, it has a durable and smooth surface. Furthermore, it offers exceptional resistance to wear and tear.
Polypropylene Coveralls
It is a polymer that can be made into fibers, which creates a non-woven material. This material is not dense enough to offer the right protection. Most of the time, this type of coverall is used to protect the user against dust and dirt and not to protect you from hazards.
2. Types of Seam
These are various types of seams:
Serged or Overlocked Seam
This is the simplest type of seam. It joins two pieces of material with an overlocking stitch, which uses three or four threads. This type of seam is beneficial in keeping the fabric together and can resist light splashes or liquid and even dry particulates.
Bound Seams
The protective coverall with bound seams is very useful in resisting chemical penetration. It is similar to the serged seam but with a narrow strip of fabric sewn on top of two edges of the coverall, to bind it. This is applied to boost the level of holdout against leakage inside of either dust or liquid particulates and may strengthen the coverall more.
Taped Seams
The taped seams offer the highest level of protection against inward leakage. In taped seams that two edges of the fabric are sewn together with protective tape applied over the seam. The tape used to have similar chemical resistance as that of the material of the coverall. The seam is entirely covered by tape to provide the best level of leak resistance. It will make the seam even stronger.
You might be wondering that if taped seams will provide the best level of protection, then why are they not used on all coveralls? The seam construction should be at the same level of security it is intended for. For instance, the taped seam is not necessary for a coverall designed to protect against light splashes. In the same way, a serged seam is not appropriate for a coverall that is intended for protection against chemicals.
3. Types of Coveralls
The coveralls are designed differently depending on their purpose.
Disposable Coveralls
Some jobs do not require the heavy layer of protection that other coveralls can provide. In that case, disposable coveralls are the best. Here are scenarios when you need disposable coveralls:
- If your tasks require protection against dirt or lint on your clothes
- If the work requires protection against aerosols, non-hazardous liquids, and particulates
- If your job can damage coveralls easily with paint, grime, dirt, or other chemicals.
Fire Retardant Coveralls
There are two types of fire retardant coveralls:
- Those that are in risk of fire
- A job that uses chemicals
If the fire is a great hazard to your working area, a fire retardant protective outfit can save a life. But, you need to keep in mind fire retardant does not mean fire resistance, so be careful when working with flame or sparks.
Arc-resistant Coveralls
These types of coveralls are intended for those working around electricity. Arc-resistant suits and coveralls protect the workers from electric shock because it is made of unique fabric.
Quilted Coveralls
Cold is a serious problem if you are working in a place where the temperature is below zero degrees. Cold weather can affect the energy of the person and can affect the person’s focus on his work. You can keep yourself and your workers protected from freezing using quilted coveralls.
4. Comfort
The comfort of the coverall has a close correlation with the activity of the user. The primary purpose of wearing coverall is to provide the best protection. So, buying something that will not be able to give the comfort and protection you need is just a waste of money. Keep in mind that sometimes your work may require you to extend your working hours. If you are working in an unpleasant place, an uncomfortable protective coverall will only worsen the situation.
Comfort means it should match your size and with a design that lets you move freely. One should choose a coverall that won’t compromise your mobility as you perform your task. This way, you will become productive. In short, your protective outfit should be something that will make your work easy, and thus you must choose a coverall that will fit you best.
5. Durability
The durability of a coverall is an essential feature one should consider. If you have a limited budget, then you will be looking for a coverall that costs less. Keep in mind that a less expensive coverall may also mean less durable. If you are working in an environment that involves hazardous chemicals or exposure to something that will compromise your health, it is best to invest in something durable.
You may be working for the same company longer, so you need something that will keep you protected for a reasonable time. Also, you don’t want something that easily shrinks and fades after a few washes. Cheap coveralls usually uses poor quality material. You should do some research before placing your orders. Reviews and articles will provide better guidance to keep you off from buying a low-quality product.
6. Design
The design of the protective coverall should reflect the work condition and must comply with the needs of the wearer. It should be based on the needs of the workers. For instance, if you are working in dark conditions, you should wear a protective coverall with high-visibility features.
Also, for those that deal with fire or hot objects, the coverall should be resistant to extreme heat. The unique construction of any fabric is essential if you are dealing with heavy-duty or lightweight jobs. Also, it has a role in ensuring maintenance and cleaning are simple and efficient.
7. Breathability
The breathability of protective apparel is an essential factor to determine the user’s ability to keep the heat at a comfortable level. The body produces heat, mainly if you are working hard. If the heat generated and moisture are kept inside the suit, the user will likely feel heat faster, and this will give them discomfort. The increased heat increases the possibility of stress on the body.
8. Insulation
Although this is not a safety feature, working in freezing weather can be as dangerous as working with electricity and toxins. Proper insulation protects your skin directly from these hazards. It will also help the workers perform their tasks well and safely without any distractions.
9. Waterproof
Most protective coveralls are waterproof, but if you deal with harmful liquids, you need more than just a water-resistant coverall. Waterproof fabric can prevent water from seeping into your skin. The coverall allows a worker to deal with water and other harmful liquids safely, without causing any distraction.
10. Visibility
Wearing bright colored and reflective coveralls will keep you visible at all times. In high traffic areas, being visible without the need for another layer of clothing is more beneficial to the users as it will assure then safety. Thus, it is much easier for employees to work safely and efficiently.
Final Thoughts
If you are exposed to harmful and dangerous factors while working, your company should provide you proper protective gear like coveralls, hairnets, over-boots, arm sleeves, and overshoes. Some accessories provide protection against liquid splashes and others for harmful chemicals. Make sure that you choose the right protective coveralls for you and your employees for a safer workplace and more productivity.
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