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.

Shop Ladies Hi Vis Workwear for Work and Safety

In an industry where safety is paramount, our women’s hi vis workwear range not only ensures compliance with safety regulations, but also a comfortable fit tailored for the women on your team. From ladies hi vis vests to women’s hi vis jackets and trousers, you will be sure to find the right garments for your team. With brands such as Yoko and Regatta leading the way in female hi-visibility workwear, you can trust that our range of hi vis ladies uniforms are inclusive and you no longer have to sacrifice safety for comfort.

Personalise your ladies hi vis workwear with our professional embroidery and vibrant printing services. Choose to add your logo and slogan to add an extra layer of branding to your team’s workwear and turn your team in walking brand advertisements. No matter if you choose to add your logo to the front or back, chest or sleeve, your logo will be outwardly promoting your business whilst ensuring the women on your team are comfortable and protected against hazards.

With nearly 50 years in the workwear business, we pride ourselves on being able to offer decades worth of experience and advice to our customers. By partnering with us here at MyWorkwear, you can trust that we will help you make the best workwear decisions for your team and your business. We recommend our range of women’s hi-visibility workwear to teams who prioritise comfort and fit alongside safety.

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Shop Ladies Hi Vis Workwear for Work and Safety

Hi-Vis Categories

Result Core Ladies Hi‑Vis Vest Product Code: RS334F

Portwest Hi‑Vis Women's Breathable... Product Code: PW_LW70

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

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Women's Winter... Product Code: PW_PW382

Portwest Hi‑Vis Women's Winter Jacket LW74 Product Code: PW_LW74

Portwest Hi‑Vis Women's Three Band... Product Code: PW_LW71

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Women's Softshell... Product Code: PW_PW381

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Women's Stretch... Product Code: PW_T141

Portwest Hi‑Vis Women's Cotton... Product Code: PW_LW72

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Women's Winter Jacket T162 Product Code: PW_T162

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Women's Hybrid... Product Code: PW_T171

Spiro Ladies Bikewear Top Product Code: SR188F

Stormtech Ladies Cascades Soft Shell Jacket Product Code: BHS3W

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Women's Rain Jacket PW389 Product Code: PW_PW389

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Women's Rain... Product Code: PW_PW386

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Women's 1/4 Zip... Product Code: PW_T173

Yoko Ladies Hi‑Vis Executive Jacket Product Code: YK218

Portwest PW3 Hi‑Vis Women's Stretch... Product Code: PW_PW385