Whether you’re working on a construction site, managing traffic or cycling in low-light conditions, visibility is key to safety. High visibility clothing, which is often referred to as hi vis clothing, is designed to make the wearer stand out in any environment, particularly those with low lighting or poor weather conditions. But how exactly does this type of clothing work and why is it so effective?
In this blog, we’ll explore how hi vis clothing functions, the science behind it, the benefits of staying visible, and the official standards behind its design and use. We’ll also highlight some of the most common hi vis items, such as the hi vis jacket, hi vis vest, hi vis body warmer and hi vis hoodie, which are all available from our comprehensive hi vis clothing range.
The science behind hi vis clothing
Hi vis clothing works through a combination of two core design elements: fluorescent colours and retroreflective materials. Each plays a different role depending on the environment and time of day.
Fluorescent colours such as bright yellow, orange and red are used to increase visibility during daylight hours. These colours are highly visible because they absorb and reflect more of the sun’s ultraviolet rays than other colours, making them appear to glow even in cloudy or dull weather.
Retroreflective materials, on the other hand, are used to reflect light directly back toward its source. This is especially useful at night or in poor lighting. When car headlights or torches shine on retroreflective strips, the light bounces straight back, making the wearer instantly noticeable from a distance.
Together, these materials create a powerful contrast against most backgrounds, allowing workers and pedestrians to be seen more clearly and earlier, which is often crucial for safety. If you’re unsure which type of hi vis is best for your needs, check out our guide on how to choose the best hi vis clothing.
What are the benefits of hi vis clothing?
Hi vis clothing is a critical component of workplace safety and general personal protection. Here are some of the key benefits:
Reduces the risk of accidents
The primary purpose of hi vis clothing is to prevent accidents. By making wearers more visible, especially in environments where there are moving vehicles, machinery or reduced visibility, the chance of an incident is significantly reduced. For example, a worker in a hi vis vest on a busy site is more likely to be noticed by a vehicle operator, reducing the risk of injury.
Improves visibility in all conditions
Hi vis clothing is effective in a wide range of scenarios, including:
Items such as the hi vis hoodie, which combines comfort with safety, are particularly helpful in changing weather conditions where warmth and visibility are both required.
Enhances team identification and safety culture
In many workplaces, hi vis uniforms can help to identify roles, teams or levels of responsibility. This not only supports operational efficiency but reinforces a company’s commitment to a safety-first culture. From the standard hi vis vest to more specialised hi vis trousers and hi vis jackets, having the right gear can instil confidence and pride in the workforce.
Ensures compliance with safety regulations
In industries where visibility is a legal requirement, wearing certified hi vis clothing ensures that your business meets all relevant health and safety standards. Non-compliance not only puts workers at risk but could also result in fines or legal issues.
What are the standards for hi vis clothing?
Hi vis workwear in Ireland, the UK and across the EU is governed by specific standards designed to ensure safety and performance. Understanding these standards helps you to select the correct hi vis clothing for specific jobs and roles.
EN ISO 20471
This is the European standard for high visibility clothing. It classifies garments into three classes based on the amount of fluorescent and reflective material used.
A hi vis jacket with sleeves and full body coverage would generally meet Class 3 requirements, whereas a hi vis vest would typically fall under Class 2.
EN 343 – Protection against rain
Many hi vis garments also comply with EN 343, which rates clothing for protection against rain and wet weather conditions. This is particularly relevant for outdoor workers. A hi vis body warmer or jacket with waterproofing helps to maintain visibility and comfort in challenging weather.
RIS-3279-TOM
This is a UK-specific standard for hi vis clothing used on or near railways. It ensures compliance with Network Rail regulations and typically specifies hi vis orange as the approved colour. Garments used in these environments must meet both this standard and EN ISO 20471.
Types of hi vis clothing available
Hi vis clothing comes in many forms, each tailored to different environments and weather conditions:
Order your hi vis clothing from SafetyCare
Hi vis clothing is more than just a bright piece of kit, as it’s also a vital line of defence in protecting workers from serious injury. By making people more visible, hi vis clothing reduces accidents, improves workplace safety, and supports compliance with essential health and safety standards.
Whether you’re looking for a hi vis vest for indoor use, a hi vis jacket for harsh weather or a hi vis body warmer for layered comfort, SafetyCare has you covered. Explore our full hi vis workwear collection and keep your team seen, safe and compliant.
For expert recommendations and to place an order, get in touch with our team of safety experts at sales@safetycare.ie or give us a call on 01 8499 100.
