Workwear - What are the legal requirements?

At a time when every other advert on television is asking you if you had an accident and would you like to make a claim, what role does workwear have to play in employers discharging their responsibility in the workplace? The "where there's blame there's a claim" culture has certainly focused the minds of employers during recent times. Many companies now take workwear and PPE (personal protective equipment), such as hi vis clothing very seriously. They understand the importance of making sure all employees are as safe as possible in the workplace and this includes ensuring they are dressed appropriately for the tasks they are required to perform.

One area that is of utmost concern is the possible transference of infections by uniform. The government, through the department of health have produced a guidance document entitled "Uniforms and Workwear - An evidence base for developing local policy" This policy is aimed mainly at the NHS but could conceivably cover a number of workplaces. In the document it sets out the legal framework which is applicable, this includes the health and safety at work act 1974 and the control of substances hazardous to health regulations 2002. It then proceeds to draw conclusion for employers based around the working group, expert opinion, literature reviews and scientific study.
The conclusion for employers includes, that the public believe there is a risk and that a ten minute wash at 60 degrees is sufficient to remove most micro-organisms. This is one of the reasons that many workwear garments are capable of been washed at higher temperatures of up to 60 degrees. JKL Clothing has for some years stocked many workwear garments that can be washed at higher temperatures. This includes workwear from Kustom Kit, Portwest, Dickies and RTY to name but a few. Add to this the fact that all JKL Clothings workwear range can be either embroidered or printed and we believe that not only will you be protecting your workforce through providing the correct standard of garment but you will also be able to maintain the smart, professional appearance that all employers are looking for.