Railway workers operate in some of the most demanding environments — whether that involves maintaining tracks, operating trains or managing station safety. Having the right railway clothing is essential to ensure safety, compliance, durability and comfort in high-risk conditions.
Strict industry regulations and the need for long-lasting, protective garments require careful consideration when choosing the best railway workwear. This guide will explore the key factors to consider when selecting railway clothing, helping you make informed decisions for your workforce.
Why railway clothing matters
The rail industry has strict safety regulations that require workers to wear high-visibility and protective clothing to reduce the risk of accidents. Whether it’s track maintenance crews working in low-visibility conditions or train drivers needing fire-resistant uniforms, the right railway clothing ensures:
- Worker safety: Protection from hazards such as moving trains, extreme weather and fire risks.
- Regulatory compliance: Meeting legal safety standards to avoid fines and penalties.
- Durability: Withstanding tough working conditions without frequent replacements.
- Comfort: Enabling staff to work efficiently without discomfort or restricted movement.
Now, let’s break down the key factors when choosing railway workwear.
1. Compliance with railway safety regulations
Railway clothing must adhere to strict safety standards to protect workers. Some of the key regulations include:
RIS-3279-TOM (UK standard for rail hi-vis clothing)
- Requires railway workers to wear high-visibility orange garments for enhanced visibility.
- Reflective strips must be strategically placed to ensure workers are visible in all lighting conditions.
EN ISO 20471 (European standard for hi-vis workwear)
- Specifies the requirements for high-visibility clothing in low-light and high-risk environments.
- Ensures garments meet visibility and durability standards for maximum worker safety.
EN ISO 11612 (Fire-resistant clothing)
- Essential for train drivers, engineers and maintenance crews working in fire-risk environments.
- Protects against heat and flame exposure, reducing the risk of burns and injuries.
Ensuring your railway workwear meets these critical safety standards is a non-negotiable factor when choosing a supplier.
2. Prioritising durability & fabric quality
Rail workers face harsh environments daily, including exposure to rain, mud, grease and general wear and tear. Investing in durable railway clothing reduces replacement costs and ensures long-term protection.
Look for:
- Reinforced seams: Prevents tearing in high-stress areas.
- Ripstop fabrics: Resistant to tears and punctures.
- Waterproof coatings: Protects workers in wet conditions.
- Oil and dirt-resistant materials: Ideal for maintenance crews working near machinery.
Durability ensures railway clothing remains effective for extended periods, minimising the need for constant replacements.
3. Comfort & fit for long shifts
Rail workers often endure long shifts in harsh environments, making comfort a key factor. Poorly fitted or uncomfortable clothing can lead to:
- Reduced mobility
- Decreased productivity
- Worker fatigue
When selecting railway workwear, look for:
- Breathable fabrics: Moisture-wicking materials to keep workers cool.
- Stretch panels: Enhances movement and flexibility.
- Adjustable cuffs & waistbands: Customisable fit for different body types.
- Lightweight insulation: Keeps workers warm without adding bulk.
Providing ergonomic, well-fitted railway clothing improves worker comfort, morale and efficiency.
4. Cost-effectiveness & long-term value
Railway clothing is an investment. Cheaper options may wear out faster, leading to higher replacement costs. Instead of focusing solely on upfront costs, consider:
- Total cost of ownership: Will the garments last through multiple wash cycles?
- Laundering & maintenance costs: Are the garments easy to clean and maintain?
- Workwear rental vs outright purchase: Rental solutions may offer better value with built-in maintenance.
Balancing cost with quality and durability ensures long-term value for your investment.
5. Choosing a reliable railway clothing supplier
Partnering with a trusted workwear provider ensures your workforce receives high-quality, compliant clothing that meets railway safety standards. When evaluating suppliers, ask:
- Do they provide RIS-3279-TOM certified workwear?
- Are the garments tested for durability and compliance?
- Do they offer custom branding and uniform personalisation?
- Is a laundering and repair service available to maintain workwear?
- Do they provide flexible purchasing or rental options?
Choosing a reliable supplier like Johnsons Workwear ensures your workforce receives top-quality, compliant railway clothing with full management support.
6. Workwear management: Why a rental solution works best
Managing railway clothing can be challenging. Ensuring compliance, washing PPE correctly and replacing worn garments takes time and effort.
A workwear rental solution offers:
- Fully managed service: Supply, cleaning and replacement included.
- Guaranteed compliance: Regular checks ensure workwear meets industry standards.
- Cost control: Fixed costs instead of unpredictable purchasing expenses.
- Automatic repairs & replacements: No need to manage worn-out uniforms.
Johnsons Workwear provides a comprehensive railway clothing rental service, ensuring your workforce always has clean, compliant and durable workwear without the hassle.
The right railway clothing makes all the difference
Choosing railway clothing is about more than just ticking a compliance box. It’s about protecting workers, improving efficiency and ensuring long-term durability.
Businesses can make informed decisions when equipping their railway workforce by considering safety standards, durability, comfort, cost-effectiveness and supplier reputation.
Need a fully managed railway workwear solution?
Johnsons Workwear offers high-quality, compliant railway clothing and a fully managed rental service. Contact us today to explore our workwear solutions.