Bib & Braces

About Bib & Braces

Bib and braces, also known as dungarees or overalls, provide essential full-body protection for tradespeople working in demanding environments. Unlike standard work trousers, bib and braces feature an integrated chest bib secured by adjustable shoulder straps, offering superior coverage against dirt, debris, sparks, and hazardous materials. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade bib and braces from trusted brands including Portwest, BizFlame, and BizWeld, designed to meet the rigorous demands of UK construction sites, industrial facilities, and specialised trades.

This collection includes flame-resistant bib and braces certified to EN ISO 11612 standards for welders and fabricators, high-visibility options meeting EN ISO 20471 Class 2 requirements for roadside work, and heavy-duty 300D Oxford weave styles built for extreme durability. Many garments offer multi-norm protection, combining flame resistance with high-visibility, antistatic properties, and chemical splash protection in a single garment—essential for workers in petrochemical, utilities, and emergency services sectors. Modern designs incorporate thoughtful features including multiple tool pockets, reinforced knee pad inserts, adjustable straps, and quick-release buckles for maximum convenience on site.

Applications

• Welders and Fabricators: Flame-resistant protection from sparks, spatter, and radiant heat
• Painters and Decorators: Comfortable, paint-resistant workwear with ample pocket space
• Highways Workers: High-visibility Class 2 garments for roadside and traffic management
• Construction Workers: Durable, full-body protection on dusty, debris-filled sites
• Electricians: Antistatic and arc flash protection for electrical installations
• Agricultural Workers: Tough, weather-resistant workwear for outdoor farming tasks
• Mechanics and Vehicle Technicians: Protection from oil, grease, and automotive fluids
• Petrochemical Workers: Multi-norm protection against flames, chemicals, and static discharge
• Railway Maintenance Teams: High-visibility and flame-resistant properties for trackside work

Choosing The Right Bib & Braces

Assess Your Safety Requirements: Identify specific workplace hazards. Welding and hot works require flame-resistant bib and braces certified to EN ISO 11612, whilst roadside workers need EN ISO 20471 Class 2 high-visibility garments. Petrochemical environments may require multi-norm protection combining several safety standards.

Consider Durability and Fabric: Heavy-duty trades benefit from 300D Oxford weave fabrics that resist tearing and abrasion. Check reinforcement at stress points such as knees, pockets, and seams. MyToolShed.co.uk offers BizWeld and BizFlame ranges providing exceptional protection without compromising durability.

Evaluate Comfort and Fit: Look for adjustable shoulder straps and elasticated waist sections that accommodate different body shapes and allow unrestricted movement. Quick-release buckles simplify removal, particularly important when wearing over multiple layers during winter months.

Check Pocket Configuration: Assess your tool-carrying needs. Chest pockets keep frequently-used items accessible, whilst leg pockets with flaps prevent contents falling out when kneeling. Hammer loops, rule pockets, and dedicated phone pockets add convenience for specific trades.

Safety Information

Always verify that your bib and braces meet relevant UK and European safety standards for your specific working environment. Flame-resistant garments must comply with EN ISO 11612, whilst high-visibility workwear must meet EN ISO 20471 requirements with appropriate amounts of fluorescent material and reflective tape.

Regularly inspect bib and braces for damage, particularly checking that reflective tape remains intact and flame-resistant properties haven't been compromised. Follow manufacturer washing instructions carefully, as incorrect laundering can degrade protective treatments and reduce certification compliance. Replace immediately if flame-resistant fabrics show signs of melting, charring, or damage, or if high-visibility materials become faded. Never modify certified workwear, as this invalidates safety certifications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between flame-resistant and flame-retardant bib and braces?

Flame-resistant (FR) fabrics are inherently manufactured to resist ignition and self-extinguish, with protection lasting the garment's lifetime. Flame-retardant garments use chemical treatments that can diminish with washing. For professional welding and hot works, always choose FR-certified bib and braces meeting EN ISO 11612 standards.

Do I need Class 1, 2, or 3 high-visibility bib and braces?

Classification depends on your working environment and traffic speed. Class 2 suits construction sites, roadside work, and areas with traffic speeds up to 50mph. Class 3 requires additional high-visibility garments and is needed for motorway work or higher-risk environments. Consult your employer's risk assessment for your specific situation.

How often should I replace my work bib and braces?

Replace immediately if damaged, particularly any compromise to flame-resistant fabric, torn reflective tape, or broken fastenings. For heavy daily use, expect 6-12 months lifespan depending on working conditions. Replace when fluorescent colours fade noticeably or reflective tape loses retroreflectivity.