Whether you’re a fishmonger or a metalworker, a heavy-duty apron will likely be one of the most important parts of your work attire. Offering protection against a wide range of different risks, these kinds of aprons make working in a variety of environments a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Aprons that are worn in these kinds of harsh environments won’t last forever though, and it’s important to recognise that. These are a few of the key signs that it might be time to upgrade and get a new one.
You’re no longer being kept safe
The main reason why most people use heavy-duty aprons is to stay safe, clean, and dry while carrying out messy tasks. If the option you’re currently using is no longer fulfilling that primary function, then that’s perhaps the clearest sign that it’s time to look for a new commercial apron.
Whether there are holes and rips in your current one, or the fabric is just no longer properly waterproof, if the clothes you’re wearing underneath are having to take the brunt of the mess instead, you’re probably overdue an upgrade already.
There’s clear wear and tear
If your apron is still just about functioning but you can tell it’s about to split or rip, there’s nothing wrong with preemptively getting a new one. You don’t want to wait until it’s entirely failed on you while working, potentially putting yourself at risk. At the very least, buy your new one early and keep it on hand while at work, so you’re not left in a sticky situation.
It’s not presentable enough
While this won’t apply in a lot of settings – even in many professional contexts – there might be some situations where your heavy-duty apron needs to be at least relatively presentable. If your apron is still technically functional but has some deep stains or other marks, then it could be time to get a new one.
It’s also worth noting that with certain stains, especially from harsh chemicals, you might also experience a deterioration of the fabric as well. In these cases, visual marks might be prophetic of more significant issues to come in the near future.
It has a poor fit
While the fit of an apron is obviously far less important than it is with other garments such as jackets, it can still be important. If you find that as the fabric softens, it stops protecting your legs and starts getting caught on objects around you more frequently, it could be time to start looking for an upgrade.
Of course, this will only apply if it’s having a negative impact on your ability to do your job, but it’s important that you upgrade before a serious incident occurs. You’ll likely need a new apron soon anyway, so why not make the jump before an accident occurs?
Heavy-duty aprons aren’t generally that expensive, but the impact on safety that they have in certain professional contexts is profound. Make sure you buy one before, rather than after, it’s too late.
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