History of Lab Coats
Earlier in the 19th century, you may be surprised to learn that medical professionals actually didn't wear white at all. Doctors did not wear white at all, rather they wore black. The black medical uniforms adorned by the professionals served two purpose. Firstly, it reflected their somber and serious personality. Secondly, it was an expression of mortality. On the other hand, they were also extremely functional as they successfully disguised dirty garments, stains and contaminants.
With the advancements in the healthcare sector, the profession moved beyond bloodletting, where bacteria and germs became common. Therefore, the American Medical Association decided to remake the appearance of doctors.
The Era of the White Lab Coat
Giving up on the black look of death, white lab coats got popular due to their clean, crisp and sterile look. Hospitals switched to white where beds were equipped with white sheets. Nurses started to wear their uniforms with white caps, and doctors started to dress up in new impressive white coats. The purpose was to regain the trust of people in this profession and also improve the overall image of doctors.
While the black coat was essentially more practical and it also helped in disguising stains and uncertainty of life, but the white became the new face of medicine symbolizing purity.
The shift was rather quick as two famous painting surfaced by Thomas Eakins. One of the paintings depicted the operation theatre where all were dressed in dark coats named as "The Gross Clinic". Likewise, another painting gained popularity known as the "Agnew Clinic" with all doctors wore white.
We are not exactly sure, when the first lab coat became popularly, or who actually designed it, but it certainly became a representation of doctors as being safe, clean and the ones having authority. This image has remained with doctors to date.
This is how white lab coats were born!
Here's why you need a Lab Coat at Your Workplace:
Superior Barrier Protection:
A lab coat serves as a barrier protecting acting like a shield, protecting the arms and torso from coming in contact with hazardous contaminants.
Protective Fabric:
A good quality lab coat is partially fire retardant. Generally they are comprised of 35/65 polycotton (35% polyester and 65% cotton). The fabric composition ensures resistance against chemicals and is easy to maintain while cotton is semi fire retardant.
Protects Against Cross Contamination:
A lab coat protects against cross contamination as it can retain the contamination and prevent it from spreading.
Easy To Wear:
A lab coat can be worn or removed with ease. For instance, if a dangerous spill occurs, you can easily remove the lab coat within seconds and maintain safe distance from the hazards.
Boosts Confidence and Gives A Professional Look:
A good crisp lab coat gives a professional look and boosts your confidence at work. It also reinvigorates a sense of responsibility and commitment to a cause.