High Visibility Standards Explained

EN471 is a European standard for Hi Visibility clothing. It outlines the requirements for Hi Vis clothing that is worn by workers who are at risk of being struck by vehicles or machinery, or who may be in low light or poor visibility conditions.

The standard covers both fluorescent and reflective materials, as well as the specific positioning and width of reflective tape. It also includes requirements for the overall design of the clothing, such as the size and placement of panels and the minimum amount of fluorescent and reflective material that must be used.

Hi Vis clothing that meets EN471 standards is designed to be highly visible to others and to provide maximum protection for the wearer. It is an essential piece of protective gear for many workers, including those in construction, transportation, and other industries where the risk of accidents is high.

One of the key benefits of EN471-compliant Hi Vis clothing is that it is recognized and accepted throughout the European Union. This means that workers who are wearing EN471-compliant Hi Vis clothing can be confident that their clothing meets the necessary safety standards, no matter where they are working within the EU.

In addition to the specific requirements outlined in the EN471 standard, employers also have a responsibility to assess the risks present in their workplace and ensure that their employees have the appropriate protective clothing and equipment. This may include not only Hi Vis clothing, but also hard hats, safety glasses, and other protective gear.

Overall, EN471 is an important standard that helps to protect workers and ensure their safety on the job. By wearing Hi Vis clothing that meets EN471 standards and using the proper protective gear, workers can help to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace.CLASS 3 - Highest Protection Level of HiVis Clothing
Band of retro-reflective materilal shall not be less than 50mm wide. Minimum background material 0.80m sq. Minimum retro-reflective material 0.20m sq.

CLASS 3 - Highest level of protection

Examples of Class 3 High-Vis items : HiVis Bomber Jackets; HiVis Parka Jackets; HiVis Long Sleeved Vest(s).

CLASS 2 - Intermediate Protection Level of HiVis Clothing
Band of retro-reflective materilal shall not be less than 50mm wide. Minimum background material 0.50m sq. Minimum retro-reflective material 0.13m sq.

Examples of Class 2 HiVis items : HiVis Sleeveless Vests

CLASS 1 - Lowest Protection Level of HiVis Clothing
Band of retro-reflective materilal shall not be less than 50mm wide. Minimum background material 0.14m sq. Minimum retro-reflective material 0.10m sq.

Examples of Class 1 HiVis items : HiVis Trousers

As at January 2023