Hi-Vis Workwear

Hi-Vis Workwear

Hi-Vis Workwear

Workwear is designed to keep the wearer safe, regardless of the environment and the tasks they’re carrying out. This ranges from waterproof workwear to keep workers warm and dry even in the dark depths of winter, to lightweight vests for keeping the user cooler during warmer seasons. Crafted from premium materials, our range of high-visibility clothing ensures the wearer is always seen. When working in adverse weather conditions, they reduce the risks of an unfortunate accident, leading to safer working environments.

High-Visibility

Being struck by a vehicle is the second most common cause of death in the workplace. This shows how vital high-visibility garments are in the workplace, with a small investment going a long way.

To be effective, Hi-Vis clothing needs to be of a colour which allows the wearer to stand out against the ambient background. Oftentimes, work environments pose various hazards and adverse conditions, making it difficult to spot workers. In practice, the best colours are day-glo or fluorescent yellow, improving visibility and meeting safety standards.

It should also incorporate reflective material so that they are seen in headlights in poor lighting conditions and in darkness. These features create a bright image which motorists are more likely to see from a distance. As a result, they have more time to react to swerve or prevent an incident.

Ultimately, high-visibility clothing will protect the wearer in the day, at night, and in adverse weather.

Such clothing must comply with EN471:2003/EN20471:2013, and must then be maintained and worn properly in order to provide suitable protection.

Garments are classified to demonstrate the level of protection they provide based on the conspicuity provided. These dictate the minimum quantities of background and reflective materials to be used.

Class 1 is the lowest, where enhanced visibility is an advantage, but for minimal risk, and for off-road purposes. For example, these are likely to be all that is required when needing to simply stand out from a crowd at an event.

Class 2 gives intermediate protection levels, and Class 3 gives the highest level of protection. These are far more suitable and are required where hazards are likely to exist. They're ideal for use on construction sites, the railways, and the highways.

High-quality fluorescent jackets and hi-vis vests are the most common type of high-visibility workwear. Additionally, reflective trousers provide added protection to individuals. These are ideal for when it is likely that people will be carrying objects which can cause obstructions and potentially hinder them from being seen whilst carrying out their tasks.

Other Workwear Features

High visibility warning clothing is just one type of safety workwear, but there are other features to consider, whether you want these for general workwear or integrated into hi-vis garments.

EN343 gives protection against rain, giving waterproofness and breathability in three classes of effectiveness. EN342 gives protection against the cold in temperatures less than 5°C. Additionally, check that it carries the CE mark to denote it meets European standards.

It is just as important for workwear to be suitable for the person wearing it, and the work they’re likely to be carrying out.

For people working in warehouses, loose-fitting clothing may get caught on machinery. Wearing correctly-fitting protective clothing reduces the risk of snagging and keeps you protected on site.

It also needs to be comfortable and fit the wearer properly, not restricting the movement of the wearer.

When it’s necessary for workers to wear additional personal protective equipment (PPE), then they should not interfere with each other. That may be other workwear that has to be worn for wet or cold conditions, or for personal safety, such as breathing apparatus, gloves, or footwear.

Musts for Employees and Employers

Any high-visibility workwear needed for the job must be provided free of charge to any employees who may be exposed to significant risks to their safety. Employers also need to maintain and check workwear and provide storage when not in use.

Keeping informed, instructed and trained in how to wear hi-vis clothing correctly ensures proper use.

On the other hand, employees should wear clothing provided as instructed, look after the clothing they’re issued, and report any defects or issues to the appropriate person.

Damaged, ill-fitting, or unworn clothing will not protect against site hazards. They're a low-cost investment that protects against injuries and impacts, so there's no excuse not to protect the whole team.

Please Note: Due to manufacturer's updates, changes in standards and availability, products may vary from the images shown.