Water-Resistant Uniform Apparel: What You Should Know

For procurement leaders in transportation, utilities, facility maintenance, and water and wastewater operations, uniform sourcing often focuses on visibility and durability. However, in environments with variable weather, such as heavy rain, freezing fog, or constant exposure to water, the ability of your apparel to manage moisture is the difference between a productive worker and one at risk of illness.

This guide explains why understanding the material specifications of water-resistant workwear is critical for both compliance and comfort. We’ll help to bring clarity on the difference between water-resistant and waterproof, explain how these materials align with ANSI Rain Gear standards for high-visibility compliance, and provide a clear checklist to help you select the most durable and practical outerwear for your specific job environments.

1. Why Water-Resistant Apparel Matters for Workforce Safety

When outdoor crews, especially those in Highway Maintenance, Water/Wastewater, or Utility Services, are constantly exposed to moisture or wet conditions, the quality of their outer protective layers directly impacts two major safety factors:

Cold Stress Prevention: Damp or drenched clothing rapidly draws heat away from the body, significantly increasing the risk of cold stress injuries like hypothermia. An effective water-resistant outer layer keeps the crucial inner insulating layers dry, to help protect the worker’s body temperature.

Visibility Compliance: In heavy rain, fog, or snow, visibility is also another essential consideration. If the uniform’s surface material absorbs moisture, the garment can darken or cling to the body, compromising the effectiveness of the high-visibility fluorescent fabric and reflective tapes. Uniform apparel should also include water-resistant reflective materials to ensure the worker remains visible.

For these reasons, selecting the correct garment with the appropriate water-resistant properties is a non-negotiable step in safety procurement.

2. Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: What Is the Difference?

The terms “water-resistant, ” “water-repellent,” and “waterproof ” are often used interchangeably, but they represent different levels of protection, as confirmed through laboratory testing. Understanding these differences helps procurement professionals match the apparel to the specific job environment.

Water-Repellent and Water-Resistant (The Defense):

A water-repellent material has been treated to cause water droplets to bead and roll off. These fabrics are ideal for resisting light moisture and are common in outerwear used by site inspectors or brief-shift workers in field environments.

Water-resistant materials offer stronger protection and can withstand light rain or spray without becoming saturated—making them appropriate for utility field crews, public works teams, or water/wastewater technicians exposed to intermittent wet conditions.

Test Method: Water resistance is commonly evaluated using the AATCC 35 Rain Test, which simulates rainfall by spraying water under pressure onto the fabric.

Waterproof (The Barrier):

Waterproof garments are completely impermeable and designed for sustained exposure to heavy precipitation or high-pressure environments—such as jetting, hydrant flushing, or stormwater system maintenance.

Rating System (Hydrostatic Pressure Test):

1. Up to 2,000mm: Water-resistant (light rain)
2. 2,000–5,000mm: Waterproof for average rain
3. 5,000mm+: Highly waterproof, appropriate for severe or extended fieldwork

3. Compliance Considerations: ANSI/ISEA 107 and Weather-Related Visibility

For high-risk environments, water resistance must be integrated into garments that are also certified by the ANSI/ISEA 107 standard. This helps to ensure weather protection doesn’t compromise visibility.

ANSI/ISEA 107 Class 3 jackets and parkas—which provide the maximum level of visibility—are typically required for workers exposed to traffic or moving vehicles, including distribution yards, municipal roadwork sites, and wastewater facility access roads.

Procurement teams should confirm that each garment:

1. Meets the required ANSI Class and Type (e.g., Class 3 – Type R for roadways)
2. It is clearly labeled as waterproof, with sealed seams, and a durable coating
3. Maintains reflective visibility even when saturated

4. Matching Gear to the Job Environment

Selecting the right outerwear depends on the frequency, duration, and severity of moisture exposure. Everyday job environments may include everything from indoor/outdoor building access to prolonged exposure near aeration basins or lift stations.

5. Evaluating Supplier Specifications: What to Look for Before You Buy

When reviewing outerwear options from vendors, use this checklist to ensure each item meets your technical and operational standards:

Conclusion: Smart Outerwear Sourcing Starts with Verified Specs

Procurement leaders across public works, transportation, facility maintenance, and water/wastewater sectors know that staying dry isn’t just about comfort—it’s about performance, safety, and compliance. By focusing on verifiable specifications and certified performance, you can build a durable, compliant uniform program that supports your team through every forecast.

Unitec offers a wide range of performance-tested, compliant outerwear for workers exposed to moisture, visibility hazards, and field conditions.

📞 Schedule a free consultation today to ensure your workforce is equipped for wet weather without compromise.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This article is intended as a general informational resource to support procurement teams in evaluating water‑resistant and waterproof uniform apparel. It does not constitute legal or regulatory advice, nor does it guarantee compliance with ANSI/ISEA 107, OSHA, or other safety standards. Requirements may vary based on your organization, location, and industry. For questions about meeting specific compliance needs or sourcing certified gear, please contact Unitec Distribution Systems directly.