Workwear & Safety
Workwear and safety gear for tradies, DIYers and anyone working on site, from hi vis clothing to tough work pants. Compare the types below and buy workwear that keeps you comfortable, visible and protected.
Which workwear do you need?
| Type | Best for | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Hi vis clothing | Building sites and roadworks | Day or day/night rating, fit |
| Work pants and shorts | Long days on the tools | Fabric, knee pockets, waist |
| Work shirts | Hot days and sun protection | Fabric, sleeves, vents |
| Safety gear | Hands, eyes and ears | Fit, rating for the job |
Workwear for building sites, workshops and the backyard
Choose workwear by where you work and what the job needs. On building sites and roadworks, hi vis clothing with reflective tape is usually required, so check your site rules before you buy. In a workshop or warehouse, durable work pants with knee pockets and a cotton drill worker shirt handle dust, grease and long shifts.
For weekend jobs around the yard, the same work clothes protect your everyday gear from paint, soil and splinters. In hot weather, choose light, breathable fabrics and long sleeves for sun protection; in winter, layer a work jacket over your shirt. Finish with safety clothes and gear such as gloves, safety glasses and ear protection.
Workwear and safety by type
Not sure where to start? For visibility, start with hi vis clothing, including shirts, vests and jackets in fluoro orange and yellow. For comfort on the tools, choose work pants and shorts; look for reinforced knees, tool pockets and a stretch waist. For the top half, work shirts in cotton drill keep you cool and covered.
Protect your hands, eyes and ears with safety gear, from cowhide work gloves to safety glasses. Need a full kit for a new job? Start with two pairs of work pants and three shirts, then add hi vis to suit your site.
Cotton drill or synthetic workwear?
Cotton drill is tough, breathable and comfortable in the Australian heat, and it softens with each wash. Polyester and poly-cotton blends dry faster, hold their colour longer and are often lighter. For hi vis, check the garment meets the Australian standard required on your site. Whatever the fabric, choose a relaxed fit so you can bend, kneel and climb without restriction.
Buying workwear online
Affordable workwear lasts when the fabric weight, stitching and fit suit the job, so check those before the price. Order a size up if you plan to layer in winter. Every product page lists sizes, materials and what is included, so you can order workwear Australia-wide with confidence. Need help choosing? Call our team on 0451 925 468.
Workwear & safety FAQ
What workwear do I need to start a trade?
Two pairs of work pants, three work shirts, hi vis for site work, safety boots, gloves and eye protection cover most first jobs.
Is hi vis clothing required on site?
On most building sites and roadworks, yes. Check your employer’s or site’s safety rules for the type required.
How do I make workwear last longer?
Wash in cold water, turn hi vis inside out and skip fabric softener, which can affect reflective tape.
What is the difference between day and day/night hi vis?
Day hi vis uses fluoro colour. Day/night garments add reflective tape so you are visible in headlights.