Difference Between Overalls and Coveralls

Lake Oconee Boomers

Difference Between Overalls and Coveralls

When it comes to work safety, there are several clothing options to wear. Besides general PPE like appropriate gloves, helmets, and goggles, different industrial work requires body coverage. Depending on the type of work, the required coverage may be partial or full body. Usually, the required garb falls into the overall or coverall categories.

What Are Overalls?

The major difference between overalls and coveralls is that overalls are partial protection. Also known as work bibs, overalls are a fusion of tough trousers, suspenders, and an apron. They are easy to slip on and sinch into place allowing for normal movement.

The legs are protected with typically a few layers of thick material, meaning the worker can kneel, crawl, and position themselves without putting their knees or legs at risk of grime or scratches.

What Are Coveralls?

Coveralls are, as the name suggests, a full body suit used in dangerous or messy work conditions. Generally, with coveralls, the work falls more on the messy side. This type of covering adds a couple layers between your skin and any surfaces you may be on, around, moving through, or under.

Additionally, coveralls seal in the day-to-day clothes, keeping grease, soot, and chemicals from staining and damaging anything. This makes for quick cleanup at the end of the day!

When To Use Overalls

Because of how quick they are to throw on, overalls are a popular option for many heavy-duty occupations. They are excellent to keep in a work truck or kit for any “just in case” situations. For anytime a bit of space is needed between the worker and anything they need to kneel on, overalls are great.

Additionally, they can be made of highly resistant materials, making them sturdy and safe in any work environment that does not require fully laying down or having the upper body near hazards. Many are made to serve a variety of industries, so deciding which one is right for you will depend greatly.

When To Use Coveralls

Coveralls are best for when a job requires workers to “suit up.” Like overalls, they too come in a wide variety of materials. The most common kind are paper, as they form a tough layer to keep off dirt while moving through safe but messy areas of a worksite.

Others are made of various cloths and synthetics. The real difference between overalls and coveralls is that with coveralls, you can expect to really get down and dirty. The full-body coverage ensures protection no matter the position.