rainwear is avail-
able in water resistant and waterproof materi-
als with or without liners. When dealing with
fire or the potential of fire, flame-resistant
rainwear is also available. Rainwear can be
made of polyester fabric in order to be light-
weight, breathable and water resistant for
warmer weather and light-duty applica-
tions. For heavy-duty applications, rain-
wear made with .35mm PVC coated poly-
ester for snag resistance and greater cut
resistance is available. When choosing
rainwear, most operators prefer bibs or
elastic waist pants and snap-on hoods.
Jackets, coats, pants, bibs, parkas and
jumpsuits are available in lightweight, medi-
um weight and heavyweight material and
can be insulated and non-insulated. Some
jackets have the added benefit of
removable liners for use in various
weather conditions.
Jackets generally have a knit
wristband for a snug fit, while
coats are usually about two or more
inches longer without a waistband so they will
hang below the waistline. Parkas are typically
insulated and designed for cold weather; some
h
ave a draw cord to tighten up the parka
around the bottom. Jackets are available in
both men's and women's fits.
W
hile not directly included in
the ANSI/ISEA standards, high-
visibility accessory clothing items
such as gloves, gaiters, etc. also
increase contrast and increase
the likelihood of being seen.
Gloves are available with
good dexterity and grip,
with or without lining, with
or without insulation,
waterproofing, abrasion
resistance, long-wear
leather palms and cut and
impact protection for
extrication or rescue work.
Many gloves are now avail-
able with high-visibility
and reflective stripes by
the knuckle area. A basic
work glove with a nylon
back and knuckle area pro-
vides ease of movement
and great dexterity, and a
hook and loop closure makes
it easy to take the glove on and off.
Gloves made with pigskin leather
have excellent durability and abrasion
resistance. They work great for tough
jobs such as handling chains or blocks.
Pigskin gloves are available with several
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Tow Professional | Volume 4 • Issue 2 | www.towprofessional.com
PROTECTIVE CLOTHING