If you work in construction, transportation, utilities, or any other industry that exposes you to dangerous equipment, high-visibility (hi-vis) clothing is nonnegotiable, especially garments rated as Class 3. If you’re shopping for hi-vis gear, learn about these best practices when buying Class-3 high-visibility clothing for your safety on the job.
What Is Class-3 High-Visibility Clothing?
As defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Class-3 clothing offers the highest visibility and safety for workers operating in high-risk environments. Clothing that’s categorized as Class 3 provides 360-degree visibility to guarantee that you can be seen from all angles.
Typically, Class-3 garments include full-sleeved jackets, coveralls, or vests with additional reflective tape and required design elements. For anyone working near fast-moving traffic, in low-light conditions, or in environments requiring maximum visibility, these features are essential.
Who Needs Class-3 High-Visibility Clothing?
Class-3 hi-vis clothing isn’t for everyone; it’s specifically designed for those exposed to high-risk environments where maximum visibility is needed for safety. Some jobs that require Class-3 garments include:
- Road construction workers operating near traffic moving at speeds of more than 50 miles per hour.
- Utility crews working on outdoor overhead electrical installations or roadside lines.
- Emergency responders and flaggers operating in dark or rainy conditions.
- Airport ground crews handling logistics around runways or tarmacs.
- Tow truck operators assisting vehicles on busy highways.
If your role is any of the above, you need Class-3 clothing to mitigate potential hazards.
Tips for Selecting Class-3 High-Visibility Clothing
Below, you’ll discover some of the most important factors to consider when buying hi-vis clothing.
1. Always Prioritize ANSI Compliance
ANSI compliance should be your first consideration. The ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard sets clear guidelines for the design and performance of high-visibility garments, including ANSI safety vests. When you understand these regulations, you can confidently purchase the correct gear for your job. If your clothing doesn’t adhere to ANSI standards, you risk visibility issues that can lead to dangerous outcomes.
Here’s what ANSI Class-3 standards require:
- Background material: Class-3 clothing must have at least 1,240 square inches of fluorescent material so wearers are visible in the daylight.
- Retroreflective tape: Additionally, your garments must have at least 310 square inches of reflective tape for nighttime visibility. This tape should encircle the arms, legs, and torso.
- Design requirements: Sleeves must provide full coverage; plus, garments must feature specific tape placements to improve visibility at a distance.
2. Select the Right Fabric
The fabric of your hi-vis clothing influences its durability, comfort, and effectiveness. For a lightweight, durable option that’s resistant to harmful UV rays, polyester is an excellent choice. If you work in a hot climate, seek breathable fabrics that reduce sweat and discomfort. Investing in high-quality, weather-appropriate fabric helps your clothing perform well in various environments.
3. Choose the Correct Sizing
Ill-fitting Class-3 clothing could fail to protect you or cause discomfort on the job. If a vest or jacket is too loose, it could get caught in machinery. If it’s too tight, it may restrict your movement, impeding your productivity and safety.
When buying safety gear, always try the garment on to determine whether it fits well. Simulate movements you perform regularly, like bending, stretching, and lifting. Most workwear brands provide size charts that account for layering underneath.
4. Examine Reflectivity and Visibility
The reflective tape is just as important as the fluorescent material in Class-3 hi-vis garments. Check for high-quality micro-prismatic or glass-bead reflective tape for greater reflectivity. To maintain consistent visibility, opt for garments with multiple reflective bands on the chest, back, arms, and legs. Additionally, make sure the reflective tape is securely stitched or heat-sealed onto the garment. Peel-off tape is a red flag for wear and tear concerns.
5. Don’t Overlook Weather-Specific Features
Weather conditions impact visibility. Depending on where you work, choose garment features that meet specific weather-related needs, as shown below:
- Winter: Choose insulated jackets or coats for warmth, but ensure they meet Class-3 visibility standards.
- Rain: Look for waterproof and windproof jackets with hoods.
- Heat: Opt for breathable vests with moisture-wicking properties.
6. Evaluate Durability
When it comes to workwear, durability is everything. Frequent exposure to washing and harsh jobsite conditions can erode low-quality garments. Look for double-stitched seams, abrasion-resistant fabric, and reinforced areas that experience wear and tear. By investing in durable Class-3 clothing, you’ll spend less money on frequent replacements while staying protected.
Mistakes To Avoid When Purchasing Hi-Vis Clothing
Shopping for high-visibility clothing may seem straightforward, but not when these issues can impede you from making a quality purchase. Be advised that your Class-3 hi-vis clothing shouldn’t skimp on quality. It should accommodate your layering needs, especially if you work in colder climates.
Choosing cost over value might seem convenient in the moment, but these garments often wear out faster and can compromise your safety. Lastly, don’t skip ANSI certification. Taking shortcuts when purchasing safety gear puts you at risk, so always prioritize quality and compliance over price.
Maintaining Your Class-3 High-Visibility Clothing
Buying high-visibility clothing is only half the battle. You need to keep up with maintenance to uphold the effectiveness of your gear. Follow these tips to get the most out of your Class-3 investment:
- Wash material according to the garment’s care instructions.
- Inspect the gear regularly for wear and tear, such as frayed seams or peeling reflective tape.
- Replace damaged or faded garments immediately since they may no longer comply with safety standards.
Choose Safety With Class-3 Hi-Vis Clothing
Choosing the right Class-3 high-visibility clothing can save your life if an incident occurs on the job. By following these best practices when buying high-visibility clothing, you’ll find gear that exceeds industry standards.
Invest in your safety today by exploring our curated collection of reliable hi-vis clothing. Shop now for better visibility on the job. You’ll have one less thing to worry about so you can put your best foot forward.
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