P&O work clothes

Maker Hard Yakka

Datec 2008

Object number00047897

NameOveralls

MediumCotton

DimensionsClothing size: 10
Overall: 1790 x 1580 mm (width at sleeve cuffs)

ClassificationsClothing and personal items

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Dennis Duyker

Terms

DescriptionYellow P&O 'Hard Yakka' safety overalls.HistoryDennis Duyker worked on the Melbourne waterfront for P&O for many years until 2009. These work clothes were issued to him just before he finished working due to illness. Previous to this style of safety uniform with bright flourescent colours, workers were issued with safety vests, which were not worn consistently. Thus these clothes integrated the safety material into work clothes, rather than as a separate item. SignificanceThe P&O work clothes highlight the evolution of waterfront workers clothing and are examples of efforts to integrate safety vests into work uniforms.