What is the difference between a class 2 and class 3 high-vis?

Hi-vis specifications in the United Kingdom are based on the ISO 20471 Standard. This standard specifies the testing needed for hi-vis workwear to make sure it is fit for purpose. It also helps to classify the different types of hi-vis workwear garments, so that we know what level of visibility is needed in different environments to ensure the safety of staff. A class 2 high-vis is suited to moderate-risk working environments, including working near vehicles going under 40mph. However, class 3 hi-vis garments are required if you are working near a motorway or dual carriage way. It’s important to note, you can adapt the classification of your hi-vis outfit, by wearing multiple hi-vis garments at one time. For example, if you wear a class 2 hi-vis vest and a class 2 pair of hi-vis trousers they can equal a class 3 hi-vis ensemble. Check out our guide to hi-vis workwear here.

Why do tradies wear hi-vis?

High-vis clothing are commonly worn in working environments where people are working with or around hazardous materials and machinery. It is essential for workers to wear hi-vis clothing on construction sites, due to the amount of large machinery on site. Operators of these vehicles not only need to be seen for their own safety, but they need to be able to clearly see every potential hazard on site, including their colleagues. The bright colours and reflective materials of high-vis clothing ensure that workers can see each other clearly. Each worker will stand out from each other and their busy environment. This visibility is crucial in keeping every worker safe on site.

What is the British standard for hi-vis?

Previously, the British standard for hi vis clothing was the BS EN 471. However, this was replaced by the ISO 20471 in 2013. In the UK, we now follow the ISO 20471 as our standard for hi-vis clothing. The ISO 20471 standard ensures that hi vis garments are properly tested to record their performance and level of visibility. High-vis garments are split into the different classification levels: 1, 2 or 3, so that the right level of visibility is worn to match the environment.

Is black hi-vis legal?

Whilst black hi-vis vests are not illegal in the UK, they do not comply with the standards set by the ISO 20471. To be compliant with this standard, hi-vis clothing needs to consist of fluorescent fabric and reflective strips and black hi vis does not fit this description. Black hi-vis clothing is commonly worn by security personnel and event staff, or anyone who is in an indoor or low visibility risk setting. They are great for identification, but do not perform highly enough to comply with ISO 20471. Black can be used as a contrast colour on hardwearing sections of a hi-vis garment, but the need for the majority of the garment to be made out of fluorescent materials remains.

What is the best hi-vis colour?

The most common hi-vis colours that are compliant with ISO 20471 are yellow and orange. But the best hi-vis colour is yellow. Not only is it the preferred colour choice in the majority of workplaces, yellow is one of the most fluorescent colours that can help to keep you seen and safe. Yellow is a brilliant colour choice for your hi-vis if you work on a building site, in a dark warehouse or in a busy factory, as you will stand out against your background. But, if yellow is a colour that is used for signals or is commonly found in your working environment, orange is the second best choice for your hi-vis.

What is the best hi-vis colour?

The most common hi-vis colours that are compliant with ISO 20471 are yellow and orange. But the best hi-vis colour is yellow. Not only is it the preferred colour choice in the majority of workplaces, yellow is one of the most fluorescent colours that can help to keep you seen and safe. Yellow is a brilliant colour choice for your hi-vis if you work on a building site, in a dark warehouse or in a busy factory, as you will stand out against your background. But, if yellow is a colour that is used for signals or is commonly found in your working environment, orange is the second best choice for your hi-vis.

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Hi-Vis Categories

Hi-Vis Coveralls Hi-Vis Fleeces Hi-Vis Jackets Hi-Vis Overalls Hi-Vis Polo Shirts Hi-Vis Sweatshirts & Hoodies Hi-Vis T-Shirts Hi-Vis Trousers Hi-Vis Waistcoats & Vests

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Hi-Vis Categories

Result Safe‑Guard Hi‑Vis Trousers Product Code: RS22

Result Safe‑Guard Hi‑Vis Soft Shell Jacket Product Code: RS117

Result Safe‑Guard Hi‑Vis Cargo Shorts Product Code: RS328

Result Safe‑Guard Hi‑Vis Waterproof Suit Product Code: RS216

Result Safe‑Guard Printable Safety... Product Code: RS451

Result Safe‑Guard Dynamic Soft Shell Jacket Product Code: RS331

Result Safe‑Guard Printable Safety... Product Code: RS450

Result Safe‑Guard Executive Cool Mesh... Product Code: RS479

Result Safe‑Guard Printable Ripstop... Product Code: RS476

Result Safe‑Guard Reversible Soft Padded Gilet Product Code: RS332

Result Safe‑Guard Hi‑Vis Micro Fleece Jacket Product Code: RS329

Result Safe‑Guard Soft Safety Jacket Product Code: RS325M

Result Safe‑Guard Hi‑Vis Vest Product Code: RS21

Result Safe‑Guard Ladies Soft Safety Jacket Product Code: RS325F

Result Safe‑Guard Hi‑Vis Cargo Trousers Product Code: RS327

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Result Safe‑Guard Hi‑Vis Safety Jacket Product Code: RS18

Result Safe‑Guard Motorist Hi‑Vis Safety Vest Product Code: RS211

Result Safe‑Guard Heavy Duty... Product Code: RS477

Result Safe‑Guard Safety Vest Storage Bag Product Code: RS213

Result Safe‑Guard Kids Safety Tabard Product Code: RS212B