High Visibility
Performance requirements of high visibility safety apparel help with providing visibility to the user under any light conditions by day or night.
In foul weather and low light conditions, work zones that put workers in close proximity to oncoming traffic and equipment movements create a tremendous work hazard. Workers need to be visible to oncoming traffic and moving equipment even when the job at hand diverts their attention away from oncoming traffic. High visibility workwear is necessary to create contrast between the worker and the work zone.
The American National Standard for High Visibility Safety Apparel (ANSI/ISEA 107) is a standard established by American National Standards Institute, Inc. Construction, maintenance, utility, emergency responders, airport ramp personnel and many categories of off-road workers are routinely exposed to potential injury hazards from their low visibility while on the job. This standard provides guidelines for the selection and use of high visibility safety apparel (HVSA) such as shirts, rainwear, outerwear and safety vests to help improve worker visibility during the day, in low-light conditions and at night. Notable changes in the fifth edition (ANSI/ISEA 107) include the removal of the Accessories category and a section around requirements for single-use disposable coveralls.
The Canadian Standard Association's third edition of Z96-2015 High Visibility Safety Apparel, focuses on the performance of retroreflective and background materials and their visibility under both well illuminated and darker working environments. It incorporates advice on selection, use and care of high visibility safety material and includes recommendations for hazard assessments.
ANSI/ISEA 107 is the American National Standard for High Visibility PPE garments. The standard assists HSE Managers in finding the garments and fabrics that will help provide safety and quality their workforce needs.
CAN/CSA Z96-2015 helps improve the conspicuity of workers in a range of industries. This standard also guides workers in choosing the right apparel for their environments by classifying garments based on body coverage and thus the visibility they provide.
ANSI / ISEA 107 Standard
The ANSI 107 standard establishes a set of performance criteria for high visibility apparel. The standard defines garment categories that are based on worker hazards and tasks, complexity of the work environment or background and vehicular traffic and speed.
- Class 2 Garments are recommended for environments with moderate traffic and some exposure to machinery. These garments are typically identified by one row of reflective trim on the chest and arms/shoulders. They also notably do not require having sleeves, so often a Hi Vis vest will fit into this class rating.
- Class 3 Garments provide the highest level of visibility and are intended for work involving greater visibility hazards, such as higher traffic speeds, dark environments or adverse weather conditions. They provide additional coverage on the arms or legs and use reflective trim that is at least 50mm (2 inches) wide. Required material amounts and trim placement vary by garment design.
- Class E Garments are considered to be a supplemental class. When worn on their own, they do not meet the requirements of an ANSI class. However, when paired with an ANSI Class 2 garment, it will elevate the ensemble to meet Class 3 standards, enhancing visibility and safety in hazardous environments. Garments such as bib overalls and leg gaiters will often fit into this class.