Transport workers operate in some of the most demanding and high-risk environments, from bustling railway stations to airfields, motorways and shipping docks.
Ensuring they have transport-compliant workwear isn’t just about meeting regulations. It’s about protecting lives, maintaining efficiency and upholding a professional image.
Whether it’s high-visibility PPE for roadside crews, flame-resistant clothing for engineers or durable uniforms for transport operators, the correct workwear ensures employees remain safe and compliant with industry standards.
Here, we explore why transport-compliant workwear is essential and how Johnsons Workwear helps businesses effortlessly manage their workwear needs.
Why transport-compliant workwear matters
Transport sectors (including rail, road, air and maritime) require strict adherence to safety and professional standards. The right workwear plays a crucial role in:
1. Enhancing worker safety
Transport workers often operate in hazardous conditions:
- Rail engineers work near live tracks, exposed to electrical risks and moving vehicles.
- Highway maintenance crews operate in low-light or high-traffic areas, requiring high-visibility gear.
- Aviation ground staff face risks from jet blasts, moving machinery and extreme weather.
Appropriate PPE, such as hi-vis jackets and flame-retardant coveralls reduces risks and ensures workers stay safe while performing their duties.
2. Ensuring regulatory compliance
Every transport sector has strict guidelines for protective workwear:
- Rail: RIS-3279-TOM-compliant hi-vis clothing ensures visibility on the tracks.
- Road: EN ISO 20471 mandates high-visibility workwear for roadside and construction workers.
- Airports: Workers must wear anti-static and flame-resistant garments to prevent accidents.
- Maritime: Workwear must align with IMO SOLAS visibility and fire resistance standards.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in penalties, increased liability and, most importantly, put workers at risk.
3. Maintaining a professional image
First impressions matter, especially in the transport industry. Professional workwear reinforces brand identity, trust and reliability, whether it’s a uniformed train conductor, a logistics driver or an airline ground crew.
Well-designed, branded uniforms also improve team morale, giving workers a sense of identity and pride in their roles.
4. Prioritising comfort & sustainability
Transport professionals often work long shifts in varied conditions. Poorly designed workwear can cause discomfort, overheating or restricted movement, impacting productivity.
Modern transport-compliant workwear integrates:
- Breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics: For all-day comfort.
- Stretch panels: To allow ease of movement.
- Lightweight, weatherproof materials: For year-round durability.
Sustainability is also a growing concern. Many companies now seek recycled polyester uniforms, biodegradable PPE and eco-friendly laundering solutions to reduce their environmental impact.
Essential workwear for transport professionals
Different roles across transport sectors require specialised workwear. Here are some key items:
1. Hi-vis clothing (EN ISO 20471, RIS-3279-TOM)
- Essential for roadside crews, rail workers and airport staff.
- Available in jackets, vests and trousers with reflective strips.
- Designed for maximum visibility in low-light and high-traffic areas.
2. Flame-resistant & arc flash PPE (EN ISO 11612, IEC 61482)
- Required for rail engineers, electrical maintenance staff and maritime workers.
- Protects against burns, electric arcs and heat exposure.
- Often features inherently flame-retardant fabrics for long-term durability.
3. Waterproof & weatherproof gear
- Needed for outdoor transport workers, including delivery drivers and port workers.
- Windproof and insulated options keep workers dry and warm in harsh conditions.
How Johnsons Workwear helps businesses stay safe & efficient
Managing workwear across a transport fleet can be challenging. Ensuring compliance, keeping garments clean and replacing worn-out gear takes time and resources.
Johnsons Workwear provides a fully managed workwear rental and laundering service, taking the hassle out of workwear management.
1. Hassle-free workwear rental
Instead of purchasing uniforms outright, businesses can rent high-quality, transport-compliant workwear with the flexibility to scale as their workforce grows.
2. Professional laundry & garment maintenance
Johnsons Workwear offers specialist laundering services that:
- Remove tough stains from oil, grease and industrial dirt.
- Maintain PPE effectiveness, ensuring high-visibility and flame-retardant properties remain intact.
- Reduce environmental impact with energy-efficient and water-saving washing techniques.
3. Compliance assurance
With regular quality checks and compliance tracking, businesses can be confident that all workwear meets industry safety standards — minimising risks and avoiding regulatory breaches.
4. Reliable repairs & replacements
- Damaged garments are repaired or replaced automatically.
- Helps businesses avoid downtime due to non-compliant workwear.
5. Sustainable workwear solutions
- Johnsons Workwear provides eco-friendly fabric options.
- Uses sustainable laundering processes to minimise waste and carbon footprint.
Why investing in the right workwear pays off
Transport-compliant workwear is more than just a legal requirement. It’s a vital investment in worker safety, regulatory compliance and professional brand identity.
By partnering with Johnsons Workwear, transport businesses can ensure their teams are equipped with high-quality, compliant and well-maintained garments without the administrative burden.
Want to simplify your workwear management? Discover how Johnsons Workwear can support your business today.
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