When selecting uniforms, companies often pay attention to their image or cost rather than how they are made. Yet these clothes and shoes are worn on a daily basis and could be responsible for several work-related discomfort and health issues, leading to further costs to the employer down the line. Conversely, high-quality uniforms can have the opposite effect.
Skypro has been developing uniforms for aviation professionals for over 15 years. Through research they have learned that aside from the usual challenges workers face standing on their feet all day, airline crew have specific difficulties they take into account when designing uniforms such as regular impact on spine and joints from turbulence; the need to stay dry whilst pushing heavy trolleys through the aisle; regular changes in climate, and many others. This is why they have developed SkyHealth Technology, a combination of materials and systems that make Skypro uniforms perfectly adapted to the needs of their affectionately named Sky Heroes.
Here are ten ways in which Skypro guarantees a uniform can help improve the health and wellbeing of crew:
1 · Fabrics that let the skin breathe
When air circulates under and over fabrics it allows sweat to dry quickly preventing bacteria build-up. This keeps skin dry and healthy and helps prevent bad odors.
2 · UV & Mosquito Protection
Few people know that mosquitoes and UV rays can penetrate fabrics. Yet there are finishes that can help prevent sunburn and diminish the incidence of diseases transmitted through mosquito bites, whilst remaining harmless to the human body and environment
3 · Thermodynamic Regulation Technology
There are several ways in which clothes and shoes are able to regulate temperature and keep body and feet from getting too hot or too cold. This is specifically important for those who work in and out of air conditioned environments.
4 · Toxin-Free Materials
Many leathers used in mass production, contain small quantities of toxic substances that could affect human health such as chromium, chlorophenols, formaldehyde, etc. These are harmless when worn occasionally, but as uniforms are worn daily they could build up to long-term effects.
5 · Anti-Skid Soles
According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), slips, trips and falls make up almost 20% of all job-related injuries and 65% of fall-related injuries occur from same-level walking surfaces. These can be prevented with the use of soles made from materials that have maximum slip resistance and a specific groove orientation for improved ground/shoe interaction.
6 · Porous in-soles for humidity control
Several infections such as athlete’s foot and mycosis are caused by the build-up of fungi in closed and moist environments such as the interior of a shoe. In-soles made from porous materials such as Skypro’s Ambicork can help prevent this by absorbing excess humidity and keeping feet dry and clean.
7 · Alarm-Free for high security environments
Several high security environments such as airports request anyone entering the premises to remove shoes when going through metal detectors which can lead to hygiene issues as feet come into contact with new bacteria. This is because often heels are made using metal components which would set these off. It is possible to make metal-free heels to help prevent removing shoes on a daily basis.
8 · Anti-Static Shoes
Anti-static technology helps conduct electricity through the insole, linings and outside into the ground to help minimize the risk of shocks from electrical equipment or live parts. The aim is to protect employees from dangers related to electrostatic build-up.
9 · Permanent cushioning and leather support for the feet
According to WebMD, standing five hours a day contributes to prolonged lower-limb muscle fatigue which increases the risk for long-term back pain. Several shoes contain a certain level of cushioning which can help protect the spine and joints, but it can quickly wear out. Investing in strong yet malleable materials such as Skypro’s special microcellular structure and superior leather will keep your body in good alignment which can help reduce back pain.
10 · Soil & Stain-Free fabrics
The main benefit of fabrics that reduce the amount of stains and soil they absorb is cosmetic, but beyond easy care they also contribute to keeping skin dry and comfortable.
SKYPRO is IATA’s only strategic partner in the development of uniform solutions for the world’s most reputable airlines. Find out more at corporate.wearskypro.com
