Cold Store and Food Processing Workwear and PPE for Australia
Written and reviewed by the Max Global Products team · Updated October 2026
Quick answer: a cold store or freezer worker needs insulated freezer clothing (jacket plus pants or bib and brace), insulated safety boots with composite toecaps, thermal gloves with grip, thermal socks, and a beanie or hard hat liner, plus hi-vis where forklifts operate. Food processing adds food-grade cut-resistant gloves, hair and hygiene coverings, and light-coloured, easy-wash garments.
The cold store kit list
| Item | What to look for | Where to start |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer jacket | Insulated, windproof, long enough to cover the lower back when bending. Hi-vis where forklifts run. | Freezer workwear, e.g. Portwest Huski hi-vis freezer jacket |
| Freezer pants or bib and brace | Bib and brace keeps the torso warm when you reach; pants suit mixed chiller and ambient work. | Portwest Huski freezer pants, Bisley taped freezer bib and brace |
| Freezer boots | Insulated, composite toecaps (steel conducts cold), slip-resistant sole for icy floors. | JB's Arctic freezer boot |
| Thermal gloves | Insulated with grip; cut-rated for handling boxes and strapping. | Graphex thermal glove (Cut D), Portwest Apacha cold store glove |
| Socks and head | Thermal socks; a beanie or thermal hard hat liner. | JSP thermal helmet liner |
| Food-grade cut gloves | High cut level (E or F) for boning and knife work, food contact approved. | PIP Kut Gard food glove Cut F, Cut E |
| Disposable gloves | Food-safe disposable nitrile over cut gloves. | Force360 SafeTouch food and medical nitrile |
Working safely in the cold
Freezers commonly run at -18°C or colder. Cold reduces dexterity and grip, slows reactions and can cause frostbite on exposed skin. Rotate between cold and warm areas, take warm breaks, keep clothing dry (sweat chills fast) and replace freezer gear when insulation flattens. Composite toecaps and insulated soles keep feet warmer than steel.
Frequently asked questions
What should you wear in a freezer at work?
An insulated freezer jacket and pants or bib and brace, insulated safety boots, thermal gloves, thermal socks and a beanie or helmet liner. Add hi-vis where forklifts operate.
Why are composite toe boots better for freezers?
Composite toecaps don't conduct cold the way steel does, so toes stay warmer through a shift.
What cut level do food processing gloves need?
For knife work and boning, cut level E or F under a food-safe disposable glove. Lighter packing tasks can use cut level C or D.
Outfitting a team
Cold store, abattoir or food plant? Apply for a trade account. See the full guide by trade.
Last reviewed October 2026. This guide covers common kit; your employer's risk assessment and site rules decide what is mandatory.