Vanguard Safety Education Series
Understanding the Differences Between Polypropylene Coveralls and Microporous Coveralls
The Vanguard Safety Coveralls lineup provides a variety of fit-and-function options designed to satisfy a wide range of workplace requirements. The following guide details the different styles and types of coveralls we offer, helping you choose the most appropriate garment by application.
Polypropylene Coveralls
Noted for their lightweight and breathable qualities, VGuard® Polypropylene Coveralls are an ideal solution for many light-duty tasks. Wearers typically choose this option when a basic level of full-body protection is desired. Made of 28gsm spunbond polypropylene, they provide general protection against non-hazardous dry particles, dust, dirt, grease and grime.
When are Polypropylene Coveralls Most Appropriate?
Polypropylene Coveralls provide a versatile, cost-saving option appropriate for extended wear in many low-level risk environments with minimal liquid exposure. Popular industry applications include but are not limited to:
Janitorial & Food Service: Acts as an added barrier to protect clothes against dirt, grease and grime. Provides light liquid resistance.
Agriculture: Protects against basic contamination when picking and packing fruits and vegetables.
Food Processing: A popular choice for hatcheries and food processing lines to help protect against cross contamination and protect clothing.
Automotive: Provides a significant barrier against grease and grime during general maintenance and repair.
Industrial & Manufacturing: Suitable for a variety of applications including general protection against sanding dust, grease and non-hazardous cleaning agents.
Microporous Coveralls
ArmorGuard Microporous Coveralls offer breathable protection against dirt, grease, grime and liquid splashes. They’re made by laminating non-woven spunbond polypropylene with 60gsm microporous film. This merger helps to create a substantial barrier protection against biological agents and blood penetration while providing excellent abrasion and tear resistance.
When are Microporous Coveralls Most Appropriate?
Because of their splash protection properties, microporous coveralls are often worn when a job is known to expose the wearer to hazardous chemicals, liquids or dirt. Popular industry applications include but are not limited to:
Automotive: Provides an effective barrier against chemicals, grease, dust, fiberglass and certain refinishing sprays.
Abatement & Restoration: Microporous film is highly effective at blocking hazards like mold spores, asbestos fibers, and lead dust. Because the coveralls are designed to allow air and moisture vapor to escape, they’re ideal for use in poorly ventilated areas like basements and attics where airflow may be restricted.
Medical: Provides protection against non-hazardous liquids and particulates. Meets ASTM F1671 for protection against bloodborne pathogens and viral penetration.
Laboratory: Helps protect against unintended splash exposure to non-hazardous liquids and particulates.
Agriculture: Provides the wearer with added protection against chemical sprays, particulates and dirt.
Manufacturing & Industrial: Protects against common contaminants including sanding dust, paint splashes, fiberglass, dirt and grime.
Construction: Helps protect against dust particles resulting from sanding, drywall and concrete mixing. Provides a barrier when working with paints and plumbing materials.
Basic Coverall Construction & Closure Types
Zippers: All VGuard® Polypropylene and ArmorGuard Microporous Coveralls feature serged seams and zipper front closures for construction stability, reduced permeation and easy donning.
Open Wrists & Ankles: Favored for ease of movement, breathability, and minimal restriction while still providing general protection from dust, debris, and light splashes.
Elastic Wrists and Ankles: Elastic cuffs around wrists and ankles help to ensure a snug fit that prevents debris from entering the garment and prevents cross contamination.
Hooded/ Hooded with Boots: Helps provide full body protection and cross-contamination prevention. Often required in higher-risk environments and used in healthcare applications or chemical handling. May be paired with a visor or safety glasses for added protection. A favorite in the remediation industry to protect against asbestos fibers.
Sizing
Coveralls should be properly fitted for ease of movement and correct protection levels.
