Jackets

About Jackets

Professional work jackets provide essential protection for tradespeople and site workers across construction, electrical, welding and outdoor environments. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of protective workwear including flame-resistant jackets, high-visibility outerwear, multi-norm protective garments and weather-resistant options from trusted brands like BizFlame, Portwest, Dickies and Apache. Whether you're working on building sites in challenging British weather, undertaking electrical installations requiring arc flash protection, or need compliant PPE for hazardous environments, selecting the appropriate jacket specification is fundamental to both safety and comfort throughout your working day.

Modern work jackets combine advanced technical fabrics with practical design features including reinforced stress points, multiple pockets for tools and devices, and compliance with relevant British and European safety standards. From 3-in-1 designs with removable linings to specialist flame-resistant garments meeting EN ISO 11612 certification, waterproof hi-vis jackets for site work, and durable 300D Oxford weave construction, MyToolShed.co.uk offers protective outerwear for every trade and working condition.

Applications

• Electricians and electrical engineers: Arc-rated and flame-resistant jackets for protection against electrical hazards
• Welders and metal fabricators: Flame-resistant and spark-resistant outerwear with reinforced seams
• Construction workers and site managers: Hi-vis waterproof jackets for protection and visibility on building sites
• Road workers and highway maintenance: Class 3 hi-visibility jackets for roadside safety compliance
• Warehouse and logistics staff: Durable, comfortable jackets for indoor and outdoor goods handling
• Utility workers: Gas, water and telecoms engineers requiring multi-norm protection
• Agricultural and groundwork professionals: Weather-resistant jackets for outdoor work in all seasons
• Maintenance engineers: Versatile protective outerwear across various industrial sectors

Choosing The Right Jackets

Identify your hazard requirements: Assess specific workplace risks including flame exposure, electrical hazards, chemical splash or visibility needs. Multi-norm jackets offer comprehensive protection for multiple hazards, whilst standard workwear suffices for general construction applications.

Check safety certifications: Verify jackets meet relevant standards including EN ISO 20471 for hi-vis, EN ISO 11612 for flame resistance, EN 61482 for arc protection, and EN 343 for waterproofing. Your employer's risk assessment will specify required protection levels.

Consider weather protection: British conditions demand versatile outerwear. Waterproof jackets with sealed seams and breathable membranes prevent moisture ingress whilst managing perspiration. Insulated options or 3-in-1 systems provide thermal comfort across seasons.

Evaluate practical features: Look for multiple pockets with secure closures, reinforced elbows and shoulders, adjustable cuffs and hems, and thoughtful additions like radio loops and ID pocket windows.

Ensure proper fit: Jackets must accommodate underlying layers without restricting movement during reaching, bending and climbing. Consider whether you'll wear the jacket over tool vests when selecting your size.

Safety Information

Work jackets classified as PPE must be selected based on thorough workplace risk assessments as required by HSE regulations. Flame-resistant and arc-rated jackets lose protective properties if contaminated with oils, greases or solvents. Never wash FR garments with standard detergents containing fabric softeners or bleach—always follow manufacturer care instructions precisely.

High-visibility jackets must provide sufficient contrast and reflective area for the risk environment. Class 3 garments are mandatory for roadside work under Construction (Design and Management) Regulations. Faded, torn or contaminated hi-vis clothing no longer meets EN ISO 20471 standards and must be replaced. Ensure jackets fit correctly—oversized garments present snag hazards near machinery, whilst undersized jackets restrict movement and may not provide complete protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Flame-resistant (FR) fabrics have inherent protective properties woven into the fibre structure that last the garment's lifetime, whilst flame-retardant treatments are chemical applications that may diminish with washing. FR garments meeting EN ISO 11612 or EN ISO 14116 provide reliable, long-lasting protection for welding, electrical work and high-heat environments.

How do I know what class of hi-vis jacket I need?

Classification depends on your working environment's risk level. Class 1 suits low-risk areas with minimal traffic, Class 2 provides enhanced visibility for moderate-risk environments, and Class 3 offers maximum visibility required for roadside work and high-speed traffic environments. Your employer's risk assessment will specify the appropriate class.

How should I care for my flame-resistant jacket?

Wash FR garments separately using mild detergent approved for flame-resistant clothing—never use fabric softeners, bleach or starch. Wash at manufacturer-recommended temperatures (typically 60°C maximum), tumble dry on low heat or line dry, and avoid dry cleaning unless explicitly permitted. Inspect regularly for damage and replace when protection is compromised.