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.

Personalised Yoko Hi-Visibility

High-Quality Hi-Vis Workwear for Safety and Style

Ensure your team stands out and stays safe with our range of Yoko Hi-Visibility workwear. Our premium selection includes High-Visibility Jackets, Reflective Clothing, and Safety Vests, designed for superior visibility and durability. With custom personalization options like embroidery and print, our protective work gear not only enhances safety but also promotes your brand on site. Discover our Hi-Vis Uniforms and Visibility Safety Apparel, meeting industry regulations and your professional needs.

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

Focused on function and form, our Custom Hi-Vis Clothing includes options for every industry. The Protective Work Gear is tailored to meet safety standards, being both practical and professional. Personalize Hi-Visibility Work Shirts and High-Visibility Trousers with your company logo to enhance brand visibility.

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Personalised Yoko Hi-Visibility

High-Quality Hi-Vis Workwear for Safety and Style

Hi-Vis Categories

Yoko Hi‑Vis Two Band and Braces Waistcoat Product Code: YK102

Yoko Hi‑Vis Classic Bomber Jacket Product Code: YK200

Yoko Hi‑Vis Two Tone Motorway Jacket Product Code: YK204

Yoko Hi‑Vis Pull Over Hoodie Product Code: YK031

Yoko Hi‑Vis Heavyweight Fleece Jacket Product Code: YK060

Yoko Hi‑Vis Sweatshirt Product Code: YK030

Yoko Executive Waistcoat Product Code: YK103

Yoko Top Cool Open Mesh Waistcoat Product Code: YK104

Yoko Hi‑Vis Reversible Fleece Bodywarmer Product Code: YK061

Yoko Hi‑Vis Poly/Cotton Work Trousers Product Code: YK300

Yoko Hi‑Vis Soft Shell Jacket Product Code: YK206

Yoko Hi‑Vis Waterproof Overtrousers Product Code: YK210

Yoko Hi‑Vis Soft Shell Gilet Product Code: YK207

Yoko Hi‑Vis Waterproof GO/RT Overtrousers Product Code: YK211

Yoko Hi‑Vis Long Sleeve Jacket Product Code: YK105

Yoko Two Tone Short Sleeve Polo Shirt Product Code: YK017

Yoko Hi‑Vis Two Tone Bomber Jacket Product Code: YK201

Yoko Hi‑Vis Classic Motorway Jacket Product Code: YK202

Yoko Hi‑Vis Reflective Border Tabard Product Code: YK100

Yoko Hi‑Vis Jog Pants Product Code: YK034

Yoko Hi‑Vis Two Tone T‑Shirt Product Code: YK013

Yoko Hi‑Vis Cargo Trousers with Knee... Product Code: YK301

Yoko Security Jacket Product Code: YK203

Yoko Hi‑Vis London Rucksack Product Code: YK502