Members of the Communications Workers’ Union (CWU) working at Australia Post have raised serious concerns about the sun-protection claims of the uniform polo shirts recently issued to posties.
Members have questioned whether the SPF 50‑rated polo shirts included in the new uniform actually provide the level of UV protection claimed. Serious doubts about the accuracy of the sun protection factor (SPF) have come to light, with photo evidence provided to management of sunburns sustained through the fabric of the uniform.
Following discussions last Friday afternoon, Australia Post responded to the CWU by acknowledging employees’ concerns and committing to seek additional information about the clothing’s protective qualities from the uniform manufacturer. Australia Post has confirmed that a formal review of the SPF 50 polo shirts will begin immediately, and in the interim employees may continue to wear the old uniform until at least 30 March 2026. This transition period formed part of the initial rollout of the new uniforms, but Australia Post has advised it may be extended if required to ensure that uniforms are safe, suitable, and meet quality expectations.
In addition to the UV‑protection issue, members across multiple Australia Post groups have raised concerns about the quality, durability, fit, and functionality of various uniform items.
As a direct result of these collective complaints and further discussions with CWU National Secretary Shane Murphy, Australia Post has committed to reviewing the entire new uniform program to ensure all garments meet appropriate standards for safety, comfort, and performance.
The discussion around Australia Post’s uniforms may be a good prompt for a discussion in your own workplace about the quality of your uniforms. Over recent years a noticeable decline in the protective qualities and durability of work uniforms has been the result of major PPE and uniform suppliers cutting costs and sourcing cheaper materials.
In Australia, high-risk industries such as construction, mining, logistics, and energy are governed by strict uniform standards under the AS/NZS (Australian/New Zealand Standards). Uniforms are considered PPE when provided to protect workers from hazardous substances or conditions, including when provided as sun protection for outdoor workers, and must be compliant with the standards relevant to your industry –
- AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 – High Visibility Safety Garments - Defines day use, night use, and day/night use classifications. Specifies minimum hi-vis fabric area on torso and limbs. Reflective tape placement must comply with visibility in motion (e.g. biomotion tape).
- AS/NZS 1906.4:2010 – Retroreflective Materials - Tests the performance of retroreflective tape under light sources. Reflective strips must maintain performance after 50 wash cycles. Essential for night visibility on road, rail, or mining sites.
- AS/NZS 4399:2017 – Sun Protective Clothing - Measures the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of garments. UPF 50+ is classified as “excellent” sun protection—ideal for outdoor work.
- AS/NZS 4824:2021 – Flame Resistant Clothing for Industrial Use - applies to garments worn in fire-risk industries like oil, gas, and welding. Tested against heat transfer, arc flash, and ignition resistance.
If you have concerns about the quality of your uniform and whether it is providing the required protection, request that your employer consult with you on this matter. If your employer cannot confirm the quality of your uniform or other PPE, contact your union for guidance on how to escalate the issue for resolution.
Read more: Australia Post: Urgent Uniform Alert - Communication Workers Union | CWU Central Branch and for more advice on choosing the right PPE see PPE - When and how should this be used?