The Boiler Suit and its Many Uses
Where does the term Boiler suit come from? Well, the origins of the boiler suit can be traced back to the early 20th century. It was initially designed for practicality and safety, mainly for workers in industrial factories inspired from the cultural icon “Rosie the Riveter”. The thanks to her boiler suit has remained a symbol for hard working men and women. "We Can Do It!" slogan was used to show here riveting in a ship yard, empowering women was the goal.
The boiler suit then started being use workers in maintaining coal-fired boilers in demanding boiler rooms. These environments were dirty, hot and hazardous, requiring heavy duty protective cotton clothing that covered the whole body to keep it safe.
The design it self is a full one piece of garment, with mobility at its core and pockets for storage use, mostly with a zip opening front.
By the mid-20th century, the utility and style of the boiler suit began to influence fashion designers. High-fashion interpretations of the boiler suit appeared on runways, bringing it into mainstream fashion.
The boiler suit also know as work coverall or overalls, are nowadays available in many different colours and designs, and have been purposely made for many uses in different work sectors.
Mechanic Overalls
These overalls for the automotive industry have adapted into practical designs when working on engines and car repairs. Navy is a popular colour, and you can find designs with many pockets.
Builders Overalls
Overalls are also used in the building trade to keep tradesmen protected on construction sites. From simple plain builders overalls to complex multi-pocket styles with reflective bands.
Engineering Overalls
Uses in the engineering sector
Agriculture Overalls
Boiler suits can be used in farming and agriculture to protect the wearer from dirt, mud, dust, and chemical commonly encountered in agricultural environments. They are helpful in reducing the risk of skin contact with potentially harmful chemicals used in farming. The durable fabric of boiler suits helps protect against minor cuts, scratches, and abrasions from equipment like ride-on-mowers and cutting and pruning equipment.
Plumbing Overalls
Boiler suits can be used in plumbing.
