Why do construction workers wear shorts?
Why do construction workers wear shorts?
On hot days you regularly see construction workers at work in shorts. But is that actually allowed on a construction site? And do you have to wear jeans in construction? The rules regarding work clothing in construction are less strict than many people think, but there are things you should take into account.
In this article we explain when shorts are allowed on the construction site, what the risks are and which work trousers are suitable for construction work, long or short.
Are people allowed to wear shorts on a construction site?
There is no general law that prohibits the wearing of shorts on a construction site. Whether shorts are permitted depends on the risk assessment of the work location and the rules set by the employer or client. On some construction sites, shorts are expressly prohibited, on others they are tolerated or even encouraged at high temperatures to prevent overheating.
The Working Conditions Act obliges employers to ensure a safe working environment. If the risk assessment shows that bare legs pose a danger, for example due to falling material, sharp objects or hazardous substances, then protective clothing is mandatory. In that case, shorts are not permitted. Always consult the safety plan of the relevant work location.
Why do construction workers choose shorts?
The reason is simple: comfort. Working on a construction site is tough and physically intensive. As a result, long trousers, especially in warm weather, can cause excessive sweating, which affects concentration and productivity. Shorts offer cooling and more freedom of movement, which makes work more pleasant and contributes to a safe working environment.
Modern work trousers in a shorter version are specially designed for active use. They have the same functional features as long work trousers: sturdy reinforcements, functional pockets and stretch for free movement, but with the advantages of shorts on hot days. They also look a lot more professional than regular casual shorts.
Pay attention to UV radiation when working outside
Shorts offer cooling, but also less protection against the sun. Construction workers who work outside for long periods of time in the summer are at risk of skin damage from UV radiation. When wearing shorts, provide extra protection: use sunscreen on exposed skin, wear a cap or helmet with neck protection and alternate between sun and shade where possible.
Tricorp also offers clothing with UV protection within its range. For those who prefer to wear long trousers on hot days, lightweight work trousers with stretch and breathable material are a comfortable alternative.
Do you have to wear jeans in construction?
No, jeans are not mandatory in construction. Regular jeans also offer less protection than professional work trousers and are usually less comfortable with intensive use. Good work trousers have more functional features: reinforced knees, stretch panels and pockets in the right places.
There are jeans work trousers specially designed for construction, reinforced with Cordura and stretch for more freedom of movement. That is something completely different from regular jeans: the construction and materials are aimed at professional use.
The right work shorts for construction
The Work Shorts 4-Way Stretch Redefined and the Women's Work Shorts Functional Stretch Redefined are made of full stretch elastomultiester with Cordura reinforcements in vulnerable areas. It is water-repellent, washable at 60 degrees and has functional pockets for tools. Ideal for hot working days when you still want to be able to move around. Combine it with it T-shirt Bicolor Redefined or it Women's T-shirt Bicolor Redefined made from 100% organic cotton for a light and sustainable summer combination.
Want the look of jeans but with better performance? The Denim Work Shorts Functional Stretch Redefined combines the look of denim with the strength of Cordura and the freedom of stretch. Made from a mix of cotton, polyester and polyamide Cordura, for those who want to combine style and functionality on the construction site.