Scots train workers are to be given new uniforms with a 'utility vest' and 'puncture proof' trousers along with updated PPE amid violence onboard services.
ScotRail will ditch the traditional suit and tie for a more casual look to some 4,000 staff including jackets, polo shirts and 'puncture proof ballistic trousers, polo shirts, a utility vest and other forms of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)'.
Calls to the firm over whether the utility vest was a stab vest and what 'puncture proof ballistic trousers' are went unanswered.
But Union bosses have hit out saying the 'new' uniforms are just the equipment they have been missing during the pandemic.
There have been a number of high profile attacks on Scots trains in recent months, including in June where three people were injured in a rammy on a train from Balloch, West Dunbartonshire, to Anniesland in Glasgow's west end.
A statement issued by ScotRail today said the new kit would be made in Scotland.
It read: "Staff have been calling for a more up to date and stylish uniform, but also one that is more practical for them to wear.
"So, new trousers, polo shirts, dress shirts, ties, and softshell jackets will be given to the almost 4,000 staff who wear company uniforms while carrying out their duties.
"This includes drivers, conductors, ticket examiners and train presentation.
"The train presentation crew will be issued puncture proof ballistic trousers, polo shirts, a utility vest and other forms of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
"There’s also been a subtle change to the colour of the uniforms, which are being supplied by Glasgow-based manufacturer CKL. The traditional ScotRail Blue has been replaced by navy blue."
Tarsem Kainth, CKL Operations Director, said:“We are proud to be chosen as preferred supplier and to be working with ScotRail to fulfil their complete uniform requirements.”
Joanne Miller, ScotRail Uniform Project Manager, said:“Wearing a smart uniform has been part of being a railway worker since the days of the old British Rail.
“But, sometimes the clothes haven’t been as practical and up to date as staff would have liked.
“We’ve really listened to what our colleagues have had to say and we are confident the new look will fit the bill perfectly as we continue to modernise our railway for the future.”
But Kevin Lindsay, Scotland organiser for the ASLEF train driver union, blasted the announcement as 'more spin'.
He said: "It’s not a new uniform. It’s more spin by Abellio.
"It just replaces pieces that staff have been waiting on for 17 months.
"They’ve attempted to mislead staff, the trade unions, and, now, the press and public.
"It’s shameful behaviour by a franchise which has let Scotland down with its continued poor performance and excuses.
"Uniforms are a hot topic and always have to be agreed but, yet again, Abellio can’t be truthful about their actions.
"The only saving grace from this latest sorry saga is that staff are getting replacement uniform parts and that the new supplier will be Scottish-based."
