Stay Safe and Dry: The Essential Guide to Workwear and PPE for Wet Weather

In the UK, a significant portion of the workforce is employed in outdoor jobs that require wet weather gear.

Did you know that as of 2023, approximately 6.8 million people are employed in roles where they regularly work outdoors and would require wet weather gear. From Construction, Forestry, Transport and Logistics, to Delivery and Courier Services, this represents a significant portion of the total workforce.

Wet Weather Gear is essential to ensuring safety and comfort for the workers in the UK’s frequently unpredictable climate.

As we all know, the wet weather can make outdoor work challenging, requiring specialised workwear to stay dry, comfortable, and safe. The right gear for wet conditions depends on the type of work and level of exposure. At Knights we have the essential pieces for each of the sectors to keep your staff safe and dry.

Waterproof Outerwear: This would typically be rain jackets and coats, or waterproof trousers. Waterproofs can be made of materials like Gore-Tex or PVC, and should always have sealed or taped seams to prevent water from seeping in. A longer coat is better for coverage in heavy rain, but for drivers where a longer coat can be uncomfortable, we would suggest a waterproof bomber jacket. There are wet weather items available in high-visibility colours with reflective strips for added safety in low-light or high-traffic areas.

Sustainable Waterproof Fabrics: With the ever-increasing focus on sustainability, manufacturers are now developing eco-friendly waterproof materials. There are always greener options for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact without sacrificing quality protection.

Waterproof Boots: Waterproof boots are essential for keeping dry in wet conditions. If feet are exposed to wet conditions for a period of time, this can lead to cold, uncomfortable and potentially hazardous situations. Wet feet are also more susceptible to infections.

Waterproof Gloves: Wet hands lose heat rapidly, leading to cold and discomfort. It actually doesn’t need to be wet to wear waterproof gloves. In windy weather, its good practice to wear a glove to stay comfortable. Wet hands or gloves, can reduce grip strength leading to potential accidents, so it’s always important to make sure you are wearing the right glove for the right conditions.

Headgear: Waterproof headgear is crucial for protection, comfort and safety in various environments. Keeping the head dry, helps to maintain body temperature, as wet hair and skin can lead to rapid heat loss, especially in cold or windy environments, increasing the risk of hypothermia or illness.

PPE: In addition to the general workwear, PPE must also be adapted for wet weather. Many jobs require specific PPE for example hard hats, safety glasses and ear protection, but these must also perform not only in the dry but also wet conditions.

Hard Hats must meet safety standards whilst also offering protection from rain. There are waterproof hard hat covers or built in rain guards which can help.

Another important item in your PPE Kit are the anti-fog safety glasses. Rain and cold weather can cause “fogging” on safety glasses which can then impact vision however with anti-fog coatings, this can help to keep your glasses clear.

​Key features to look for when choosing waterproof clothing;

1. Taped Seams: Ensure that your clothing has taped or welded seams, as stitching alone can allow water to seep through.
2. Adjustable Cuffs & Waistbands: Prevent water from entering through sleeve or pant openings.
3. Ventilation: Waterproof clothing should still be breathable to prevent overheating and moisture build-up inside your layers.
4. Durability: Materials like nylon and polyurethane provide good water resistance, while thicker fabrics offer more protection from abrasion or damage in tough work environments.

Breathability Vs Waterproofing;

One of the big factors when you think of waterproof clothing, should be balancing waterproofing and breathability.

Workers can often overheat and sweat in waterproof gear, especially when performing a more physical task. Modern fabrics like Gore-Tex and wicking fabrics, offer a balance between keeping water out and letting moisture escape, preventing the discomfort of sweat build-up. At Knights we supply breathable fabrics across our range from basic polo shirts to hi visibility items.

Layering Techniques:

It’s often joked about in the UK that we can experience multiple seasons in one day. This can make it difficult when equipping your workforce with comfortable clothing that will keep them dry too; this is when a layering system works very well.

We would recommend a layering system that would include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer. This means your workers can adjust their layers to accommodate the changing conditions throughout the day.

Importance of maintenance and care for wet weather gear;

To keep your clothing and PPE in the best condition, it’s important to take care of it with regular cleaning and inspection. Waterproof items can lose their effectiveness if not properly maintained. Dirt, sweat and oils from your skin can clog the waterproof membrane or fabric coating on your clothing which then reduces the effectiveness over time. Regular cleaning will help restore both waterproofing and breathability.

Another thing you can do, is “reproof” your waterproof clothing. Many waterproof fabrics like those used in anoraks need to be reproofed periodically to restore their water resistance.

Inspecting seams, zips, and looking for small tears and rips and repairing these, will help to keep your items waterproof for longer.

You will never regret investing in high-quality waterproof workwear and PPE which is not just a matter of comfort—it's a critical factor in ensuring safety, productivity, and overall well-being in wet and challenging environments.

From waterproof jackets and boots to gloves and headgear, having the right gear keeps workers protected from the elements, reduces the risk of accidents, and boosts efficiency. With the UK’s unpredictable weather patterns, it’s essential to maintain, clean, and care for these waterproof items to prolong their lifespan and ensure they continue to perform at their best.

By staying informed and properly outfitted, both workers and employers can ensure safety and success, rain or shine.

Want to learn more? Contact us