The Ultimate Guide to Hi Vis Vests: Everything You Need to Know

If you work in a job that requires you to be visible to others, such as construction or road work, a hi vis vest is an essential piece of safety equipment. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hi vis vests, including materials, regulations, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

What are hi vis vests and why are they important?

Hi vis vests, also known as high visibility vests or safety vests, are garments designed to make the wearer more visible to others. They are typically made of brightly colored or reflective materials, such as fluorescent yellow or orange, and are often worn in jobs where visibility is crucial for safety, such as construction, road work, and emergency services. As we have seen in our previous article, wearing the right hi vis clothing is important because it helps prevent accidents and injuries by making workers more visible to drivers and other workers on the job site.

Types of hi vis vests and their uses.

There are several types of hi vis vests available, each designed for specific uses and environments. Class 1 vests are the most basic and are suitable for low-risk environments, such as parking lots or warehouses. Class 2 vests are designed for higher-risk environments, such as construction sites or road work. Class 3 vests offer the highest level of visibility and are typically used in emergency services or high-risk construction sites. It’s important to choose the right type of vest for your job to ensure maximum safety.

Materials used in hi vis vests and their properties.

Hi vis vests are made from a variety of materials, each with their own unique properties. The most common materials used are polyester, mesh, and cotton. Polyester is a popular choice because it is lightweight, durable, and resistant to wrinkles and shrinking. Mesh is another popular choice because it allows for breathability and ventilation, making it ideal for hot and humid environments. Cotton is a natural material that is comfortable to wear and easy to care for, but it is not as durable as polyester or mesh. Once you have chosen the best material, make sure that the garment fits well. Loose fitting can result in impaired movement, becoming a cause of injuries. Try on different sizes to identity the most adequate one, and avoid one-size fit clothing when possible.

Regulations and standards for hi vis vests.

To ensure their effectiveness in keeping workers safe and visible, hi vis vests must comply with EN ISO 2471, the international standard setting safety requirements for Hi-Vis workwear. This standard specifies the minimum amount of visible material, the performance requirements for reflective tape, an introduces a three-class system for hi-vis clothing. To help you choose a hi vis vest that meets all these requirements, Healthy Bean as prepared a comprehensive guide to EN ISO 2471.

Maintenance and care for hi vis vests.

Proper maintenance and care for hi vis vests is crucial to ensure their effectiveness and longevity. As we have seen in our guide on how to get a hi-vis clean, you must always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying the vest. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the reflective tape and reduce visibility. Inspect the vest regularly for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary. Store the vest in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. By taking good care of your hi vis vest, you can ensure that it will maintain its brightness and continue to keep you safe and visible on the job.

Now that you know everything about Hi Vis Vests,  browse our website and find the perfect protective equipment for your needs!

Healthy Bean is the ideal supplier for those looking for high-quality PPE, Safety Workwear and Safety Footwear solutions. With more than 4,000 products, we provide the best option for all types of work environments, from construction to manufacturing, welding, medical, food production, hospitality, corporate, and more.