What You Need To Know About Hi-Vis Clothing
May. 06, 2024
What You Need to Know About Hi-Vis Clothing
Eye-Catching Style: When Visibility is a Trend
Who seeks to stand out? Think of this group as people wanting to be noticed, but not necessarily for safety. As noted earlier, fluorescent, bright garments have made a comeback, with their presence now widespread in retail fashion.
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As a company, perhaps you’d like to adopt this hi-vis fashion trend in an upcoming apparel project. There are plenty of garments readily available in colors such as neon blue, neon pink, neon orange, neon green, neon yellow and more.
Neons are in right now and if you want a sporty, fresh look that helps your brand stand out visually, give neons a try. They will help your message stand out quite literally.
However, if your goal is for your employees to be highly visible for their safety, then we shift into a different category.
When Safety Necessitates Visibility
Safety concerns span across various professions. From tree trimmers to road construction workers, visibility can be a lifesaver. In roles by roadways, specific safety attire is required. Below, I’ll outline the essentials. Many conscientious business owners also adopt safety attire voluntarily, prioritizing their workers' well-being irrespective of mandates.
The American National Standard for High-Visibility Safety Apparel and Headwear (ANSI/ISEA 107-2015) sets guidelines overseen by the American National Standards Institute. An "ANSI MADE EASY" guide simplifies this standard. I'll share a link to it for your reference. Here’s what it says about safety colors:
“Three colors for background and combined-performance material are available: fluorescent yellow-green, fluorescent orange-red, and fluorescent red. Consider the work and natural environment to choose the most perceptible color for daylight.”
These are the approved colors for Hi-Vis clothing. Manufacturers often use names like Safety Orange, Safety Green, or Safety Yellow. Though Safety Yellow and Safety Green appear similar, names may vary between brands.
These safety colors differ from the trendy neon colors mentioned earlier. For instance, Jerzees Heavyweight 50/50 poly/cotton t-shirts come in both Neon Green and Safety Green. For safety purposes, ensure you select safety colors.
Also, note that even if labeled hi-vis, hi-vis pink shirts do not meet ANSI certification. Hi-vis pink is not among the acceptable safety colors listed above.
Key Insights About High Visibility Safety Gear
Essential Knowledge on High Visibility Safety Apparel
Maintenance workers first started using high-visibility clothing in 1964.
High visibility clothing is central to industries like construction and roadside maintenance. You’ve likely seen reflective pants, bright shirts, and orange vests on workers.
Did you know different colors are chosen for specific scenarios? Many are unaware. Stay informed with our guide below on high-visibility safety apparel.
Choosing Your Hi-Vis Gear
Hi-vis clothing is characterized by reflective tape and bright hues. Typical colors include yellow, green, orange, white, and red.
When selecting hi-vis clothing, look for an ANSI/ISEA label, denoting either 2015 or 2004 standards.
2015 standards ensure better, safer fits and cover guidelines for gloves and armbands. Labels adhering to 2015 standards also provide information on flame resistance and performance class. Always have a flame-resistant safety vest nearby!
To find quality hi-vis clothing, explore renowned brands like RadWear high visibility clothing.
When to Don Hi-Vis Apparel
Wear your high-visibility clothing at worksites with potential hazards, especially near moving vehicles. It’s crucial in dimly lit or congested areas.
Hi-vis gear is mandatory for roles in excavation or flagging, or areas prone to struck-by dangers to ensure co-worker visibility.
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While wearing safety gear, consider the weather, tasks, proximity to vehicles, lighting, and presence of flames.
In scenarios without barriers between you and moving vehicles, it’s vital to wear your high visibility reflective gear.
Importance of Training
If your job mandates hi-vis gear, training will include its usage. Paying attention is critical to ensure safety for you and your colleagues.
Training covers when to use safety gear, selecting correct fits, storing equipment, and proper cleaning. If these topics aren’t covered, ask questions.
If you observe co-workers not wearing gear correctly, remind them or raise the issue with your supervisor.
Understanding Color Applications
Hi-vis gear colors vary by job but are chosen based on environmental contrasts. Neon yellows are popular against dirt, rock, and trees. Orange is used on water as it contrasts with blue. Bright pink is common in forests where it stands out.
If adding logos to vests, follow guidelines. The reflective material must cover 40% of the minimum required amount when the vest is laid flat.
Classes of Reflective Apparel
Hi-vis clothing is categorized into three classes, indicating levels of reflection and job relevance.
Ensure you wear the appropriate class for your job. Refer to federal and state guidelines if unsure.
Class 1
Class 1 features the least reflective clothing, making wearers blend in and less visible to moving vehicles.
ANSI/ISEA standards dictate that class 1 clothing must have a minimum of 217 square inches of background material. Reflective tape should cover 155 square inches with a bright background or 310 square inches without.
Class 2
Working near road traffic? Class 2 or 3 hi-vis clothing is required.
Class 2 requires a background material of at least 755 square inches and reflective tape covering at least 201 square inches.
A barrier between workers and moving traffic and slowing down traffic near construction sites are essential daylight measures for those wearing this class.
Class 3
Class 3 provides the highest visibility and should be seen from 1,280 feet away.
This class is suitable for high-speed traffic areas, nighttime, or crowded city settings without lane change options.
Class 3 attire must have at least 1,240 square inches of background material and 310 square inches of reflective tape. Sleeves or trousers are required.
Class 3 outfits can combine class 2 shirts with class E trousers. Class E trousers must have 108 square inches of reflective tape.
Staying Safe: High-Visibility Safety Apparel
On hazardous job sites, protecting yourself and colleagues is vital. Get informed on high-visibility safety clothing with this guide.
Know when and how to wear hi-vis clothing and which class to choose. If uncertain, ask your employer.
For hi-vis clothing, visit our site. We offer various brands and custom bulk orders. Contact us today to get started.
For more information, please visit Flame Cotton Fabric.
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