The effect of size and fabric weight of protective coveralls on range of gross body motions.

This study evaluated the effects of garment size and fabric weight on range-of-motion (ROM). Ten male subjects performed a series of twelve gross body movements while wearing each of nine similarly styled coveralls. The coveralls were undersized, appropriately sized, and oversized, and were constructed from three different weights of poly/cotton fabric. A balanced 3 x 3 repeated measures experimental design was used, along with a seminude control condition. ROM was measured with a two-arm manual goniometer. Garment size significantly affected (p < .05) ROM for all movements except shoulder extension and trunk lateral flexion. Compared to seminude ROM, undersized garments reduced the mean ROM by as much as 24% in the case of hip flexion. Fabric weights on ROM were significant for shoulder extension and elbow, hip, knee, and shoulder horizontal flexion. Fabric weight affected ROM less than garment size. Interaction effects between fabric weight and size generally were not significant. These results demonstrate that undersized garments can measurably reduce the wearer's movement capability. Providers of protective clothing should ensure that garments are not undersized and should consider the benefits of oversizing against possible safety and wearer acceptance problems.