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.

Printed & Embroidered Hi Vis Over Trousers & Waterproof Workwear

Looking for that extra layer of protection against not only the hazards of a busy site, but the unpredictability of bad weather? Then take a look at our range of hi visibility waterproof over trousers. Our collection includes a wide variety of sizes, styles and colours so you can be sure the find the best fit for every member of your team. Choose from hi vis over trousers from reputable brands like Portwest, with additional features like holster pockets and elasticated waist bands, that will help you and your team perform at your absolute best.

Start customising your teams hi vis over trousers, to make sure you never miss out on an opportunity to promote your brand. Utilise our professional printing and embroidery services to expertly add your branding, logo and slogan to your new hi vis over trousers and turn your team in walking brand advertisements. Invest in our range of high-quality and durable hi vis over trousers and ensure that your workwear supports your team and keeps them comfortable, no matter what the day throws at them.

For nearly 50 years we have been supplying high-quality workwear to teams looking for professional branded workwear that is tailored to their business. We recommend our range of hi vis work over trousers to teams looking for that extra layer of protection out on site, without hindering the life saving features of hi-visibility workwear.

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Printed & Embroidered Hi Vis Over Trousers & Waterproof Workwear

Hi-Vis Categories

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

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

Portwest DX4 Hi‑Vis Detachable... Product Code: PW_DX445

Warrior Hi‑Vis Overtrousers Product Code: WR010

Portwest Hi‑Vis Rain Trousers H441 Product Code: PW_H441

Uneek Hi‑Viz Trouser Product Code: UC807

Portwest Classic Iona Rain Trousers F441 Product Code: PW_F441

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Holster Pocket... Product Code: PW_T501

Portwest Hi‑Vis Rain Traffic Trousers S480 Product Code: PW_S480

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

Portwest Hi‑Vis Contrast Classic Rain... Product Code: PW_H444

Yoko Hi‑Vis Waterproof Overtrousers Product Code: YK210

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Work Trousers PW340 Product Code: PW_PW340

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

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

Portwest Hi‑Vis Polycotton Service... Product Code: PW_RT45

Portwest Hi‑Vis Work Trousers E046 Product Code: PW_E046

Portwest Sealtex Ultra Hi‑Vis Rain... Product Code: PW_S493

Portwest Hi‑Vis Three Band Joggers RT48 Product Code: PW_RT48

Portwest Seville Hi‑Vis Contrast Work... Product Code: PW_TX71

Portwest Iona Safety Combat Trousers S917 Product Code: PW_S917

Portwest Hi‑Vis Three Band Work Trousers RT49 Product Code: PW_RT49

Portwest Hi‑Vis Two Tone Traffic Trouser S486 Product Code: PW_S486

Yoko Hi‑Vis Jog Pants Product Code: YK034