R&FFtalks with protective clothing provider RefrigiWear to find out what's new in cold protection.

Protecting food products from contamination is a main priority for any food processor, but keeping workers safe is just as important.Refrigerated & Frozen Foodsasked RefrigiWear’s Kristy Chriscinske, director of marketing, to share what’s new in protective clothing worn in refrigerated and frozen food plants.

R&FF: What specifically does RefrigiWear offer to processors with temperature-controlled operations?

Kristy Chriscinske: RefrigiWear always has addressed productivity and safety issues and has evolved its product line to provide “head-to-toe” coverage by offering outerwear for cold environments, from –50°F to 50°F.

R&FF: What are your latest new products targeting the temperature-controlled food plants?

Chriscinske: This year we introduced two new styles: the Enhanced Visibility Jackoat/343 and High Bibs/386 featuring 2-foot Scotchlite reflective tape for 360-degrees of visibility.

Also, with more women than ever entering the industry, our customers told us they needed a jacket and boots specifically made for women. Last year, we introduced the Women’s Coat/323 and Women’s Classic Boot/120LS. Both styles were designed to fit a women’s body.

R&FF: What industry issues/concerns do your new offerings address? How?

Chriscinske: Most importantly, our products offer warmth. Cold workers are less productive and are more likely to be distracted, which can lead to accidents. Visibility is a growing safety concern that we have addressed with our Enhanced Visibility items and another line of High Visibility options.