Why Hi-Vis Clothing Matters in Busy Work Environments
In dynamic workplaces where employees are constantly on the move and multiple tasks are happening simultaneously, it can be difficult to keep track of everyone’s exact location. In these situations, high-visibility (hi-vis) clothing is essential for maintaining safety and preventing accidents.
Designed for Safety in Low Visibility Conditions
Hi-vis clothing is specifically engineered to improve visibility in environments where lighting is poor or distractions are many. These garments are tailored to meet the safety demands of such settings by enhancing how easily workers can be seen. To ensure these garments meet strict safety criteria, the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard provides clear guidelines for performance and compliance.
Understanding ANSI/ISEA 107-2020: The Hi-Vis Safety Standard
ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 is the American national standard that defines the design, color, and performance requirements for hi-vis personal protective equipment (PPE). This standard helps safety managers choose garments that deliver both reliability and protection on the job.
Key requirements include:
Design: The structure and layout of the garment are tested for ergonomic fit and compliance with construction standards, ensuring comfort without sacrificing safety.
Color and Performance: Background materials must maintain their brightness and colorfastness, even under wet conditions. These properties are crucial for consistent visibility in all environments.
Optional Testing Features: Additional assessments, such as flame resistance, are available. These also evaluate how branding elements like labels or logos may impact the garment’s visibility.
By choosing ANSI 107-2020 certified hi-vis gear, companies can better protect their workforce in high-risk, low-visibility settings.
How Are High-Visibility Fabrics Made?
High-visibility (hi-vis) fabrics are crafted using fluorescent materials that react to ultraviolet (UV) light. This reaction creates the bright, glowing effect that enhances visibility, especially in low-light or shadowed environments. To further increase visibility, garments are often equipped with reflective tape that bounces back light from headlights, flashlights, and other sources.
Do Hi-Vis Garments Lose Reflective Performance Over Time?
Yes, over time, the reflective properties of hi-vis garments can degrade. While the fabric is chemically treated to retain its fluorescent qualities, daily wear and tear, exposure to elements, and improper care can cause the reflective surface to fade or deteriorate. Once the reflectivity diminishes, so does the safety it provides. Regular inspection and timely replacement of worn or faded garments are essential for maintaining workplace safety.
Following manufacturer-recommended care instructions can also help extend the life and effectiveness of hi-vis clothing.
Why High Visibility PPE Is Crucial
In work zones where moving vehicles, heavy machinery, or poor lighting are common, the risk of accidents increases significantly. High visibility personal protective equipment (PPE) reduces this risk by making workers easily seen, helping prevent injuries caused by low visibility or unexpected movement.
Industries That Require High-Visibility Clothing
Though fluorescent fabrics have existed since the 1930s, it wasn’t until the 1990s that hi-vis clothing became mandatory in many sectors. Today, hi-vis gear is a standard part of PPE in a wide range of industries across the world.
Some industries require not just visibility, but also flame-resistant (FR) properties in their protective gear. These include:
Electric and utility companies
Engineering and construction
Emergency response teams (ER)
Airport ground operations
Railway and metro workers
Transportation and logistics
In such high-risk environments, hi-vis garments must deliver dual protection—ensuring both visibility and fire resistance. Choosing ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 certified garments ensures compliance with these critical safety standards.