The UK has recently seen record-breaking spring temperatures, with many areas hitting over 30 degrees. These high temperatures create a challenge for care workers, whose physically demanding work can leave them feeling uncomfortable in extreme heat.
Adam Halewood, Head of Sales at custom branded workwear supplier Clothes2order, explains what healthcare brands must consider when designing uniforms to ensure staff comfort during warm weather.
Opt for short sleeves
Whilst elements like short sleeves are primarily used to promote the ‘bare below the elbows’ policy to reduce the spread of infection, they are also effective at keeping staff cool.
Adam says, “Most care environments are set to a consistent warm temperature to ensure the vulnerable groups inside are protected from the cold. Whilst this keeps residents from catching a chill, on hot days it can leave staff at risk of overheating whilst carrying out their physically demanding work.
“Keeping air circulating across your arms helps to regulate temperature on a hot day by allowing for sweat to evaporate faster and creating a naturally cooling effect. Uniforms should therefore be designed with short sleeves to allow for sufficient ventilation and for heat to escape effectively.
“The exception to using short sleeves is in the case of those who need sun protection. Sleeves can be used to cover up during high UV periods if going outside cannot be avoided, alongside applying SPF.”
Choose breathable material
“The material uniforms are made from should always be a consideration, but it becomes increasingly important in hot weather,” explains Adam.
“Poly-cotton blends offer the best of both worlds, combining breathable and moisture-wicking properties in a lightweight fabric that is well ventilated and absorbs sweat away from the body to keep wearers dry and cool. Ideal for care environments, this fabric keeps staff comfortable whilst being durable enough to withstand frequent laundering and strict care home hygiene practices.”
Consider a relaxed fit
“For practicality, care staff need to be able to move freely to keep themselves protected from injury when carrying out their work. Tunics and scrubs are typically designed with a relaxed fit and use stretchy materials, allowing the wearer a full range of movement, for this reason.
“Relaxed-fit garments also play a part in keeping staff cool, as air can flow more freely. By preventing the fabric from clinging to the skin, loose-fitting uniforms reduce the feeling of overheating and discomfort during long shifts, particularly in busy care home environments where staff are constantly moving between tasks.”
