How should work clothing sizes be determined for employees?

The correct size of workwear for staff is determined by measuring each employee individually or by collecting their measurements before placing an order. The proper starting point is the manufacturer’s or supplier’s size chart, against which the measured values are compared. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about sizing, from theory to practice.

How does the workwear size chart work in practice?

A workwear size chart is a reference chart provided by the manufacturer or supplier that lists the body measurements corresponding to a specific size, expressed in centimeters. In practice, measurements taken from staff are compared to the chart, and the correct size is selected based on the closest match. Size charts from different manufacturers may vary, so it’s always best to use the chart on a per-order basis.

Size charts typically list body measurements, not garment measurements. This means that the numbers in the chart indicate how large a person the garment in question is designed to fit. For example, for a work jacket, the chart shows the chest circumference and often also a recommended length. For work pants, the key measurements are the waist and hip circumferences, as well as the inseam length.

When purchasing workwear for multiple employees at once, it’s best to collect everyone’s measurements first and only then compare them to the supplier’s size chart. This helps avoid a situation where some garments are ordered in the wrong size based on guesswork.

What measurements do we need from staff to find the right size?

To find the right size, you need at least the chest circumference, waist circumference, and height. In addition, for work pants, you’ll need the hip circumference and inseam length. These five measurements cover most of the sizing needs for staff workwear and are sufficient for selecting sizes for most clothing styles.

More specifically, the following measurements are needed for different types of clothing:

• Work jackets and work shirts: chest circumference, shoulder width, and length
• Work pants: waist circumference, hip circumference, and inseam length
• Work shoes: sole length in centimeters or EU size
• Work gloves: circumference of the hand at the knuckles
• Winter work clothes: chest circumference and length, and often hip circumference as well

It’s best to take measurements while wearing regular clothes or a thin undershirt, not over thick clothing. This gives a realistic picture of how the garment will fit during normal wear.

Does every employee have to be measured individually?

Each employee should be measured individually whenever possible, as people’s body types vary significantly even if they share the same clothing size. Individual measurements are especially important when it comes to protective clothing or garments where a proper fit is critical for safety or comfort on the job.

In practice, individual measurements do not take much time. At its simplest, each employee can measure themselves at home and submit the measurements to the procurement manager. All that is needed is a standard measuring tape and clear instructions on which parts of the body to measure.

In some situations, individual measurements aren’t practical—for example, in a large organization or a situation where staff turnover is high. In such cases, standard sizes can be used, but it’s a good idea to offer the option to exchange sizes if the garment doesn’t fit properly. A good supplier will support this process flexibly.

How do special requirements, such as protective clothing, affect the choice of sizes?

Protective clothing and other specialized garments are often sized more generously than regular work clothes, since layers of undergarments or protective gear are worn underneath them. This means that protective clothing is typically selected one or even two sizes larger than regular workwear, and the manufacturer’s size chart serves as a guide for this selection.

The importance of accurate sizing in protective clothing is also emphasized by the fact that clothing that is too tight can restrict movement, while clothing that is too loose can cause practical difficulties on the job. In the construction, industrial, and logistics sectors, where mobility and physical labor are key, the right fit is directly linked to comfort, safety, and efficiency. For garments featuring high-visibility colors and reflective elements, the correct fit is especially important to ensure that the visibility features function as intended.

When it comes to winter workwear, on the other hand, it’s important to keep in mind that these garments are designed to be worn over warm base layers. Here, too, the size chart helps guide the right choice, but it’s a good idea to ask staff how thick their base layers are in cold conditions.

How often should employees’ work clothes be checked?

It is advisable to check the fit and condition of employees’ work clothes at least once a year, for example, at the change of seasons in spring or fall. It is also a good idea to conduct a check whenever new employees join the staff, the clothing line is updated, or job descriptions change in a way that alters clothing requirements.

Regular checks benefit both the staff and the employer. Well-fitting, durable, and intact workwear supports staff comfort, safety, and a professional appearance. Worn-out or ill-fitting clothing, on the other hand, compromises both comfort and the garment’s protective properties.

Practical tip: Keep a record of your staff’s measurements and the sizes you’ve ordered. When it’s time to place your next order, the process will be quick and smooth. This is especially useful for growing companies where staff numbers fluctuate.

Kassatieto’s workwear selection includes work jackets, work pants, work shirts, work shoes, gloves, protective gear, and winter workwear. Everything is available in one place, through a single point of contact, which makes ordering easy even for larger companies. If you need help with sizing or selecting the right styles, please contact Kassatieto’s expert sales team.

Kassatieto is a second-generation Finnish family business that combines extensive experience, Finnish production and responsible business practices. Our aim is to make our customers’ daily lives run more smoothly with reliable products and expert service.