Hi-vis clothing is necessary in many industries for safety and convenience. Hi-vis clothing helps workers in a variety of careers stand out and stay safe, whether they work in construction, manufacturing, emergency services, or road crews.
But what are some of the most common situations that require high-visibility clothing? Let's look at some of the most important scenarios that necessitate wearing hi-vis apparel.
Construction Sites
One of the most well-known uses of hi-vis clothing is in construction sites. It is often mandatory to wear high-visibility clothing when working on a construction site due to the lack of natural light in these spaces and the abundance of large machines and tools that make it difficult to see workers from afar.
Hi-vis apparel allows workers to be seen more easily and helps prevent any potential accidents or injuries from occurring. This also applies to roadwork and other large-scale heavy machinery or equipment projects.
Traffic Controllers
Traffic controllers must wear hi-vis clothing while directing traffic on busy roads. The bright colors of the clothing help drivers spot traffic controllers, allowing them to make decisions more accurately and easily.
The colors also help protect traffic controllers and drivers by improving visibility in hazardous conditions. Whether worn during the day or night, hi-vis clothing helps keep traffic controllers visible and safe.
Railway Workers
Railway workers, including train drivers and railway staff, must wear hi-vis clothing while on the job. This clothing helps them be more visible in areas where there may not be much natural light or visibility due to large objects blocking the way. Additionally, railway workers need extra visibility when working with heavy machinery like trains.
Utility Workers
Utility workers must also wear hi-vis clothing while working on power lines, pipelines, and other dangerous machinery. Utility workers need people to see them from a distance in emergencies or when dealing with hazardous materials that could cause harm if not properly managed. The last thing you want is an accident due to lack of visibility, which is why hi-vis clothing is a must in these situations.
Off-Roading and ATV Riding
If you plan on going off-roading or taking an ATV out for a spin, you must wear hi-vis clothing for your safety and that of others around you. Wearing bright colors helps ensure other motorists who may not be expecting people in those areas can see you. Additionally, if something happens while off-roading or riding an ATV and someone needs help, wearing hi-vis apparel can increase your chances of being found quickly by emergency responders.
Outdoor Events and Festivals
Outdoor events like festivals, concerts, and fairs are another common situation where high visibility apparel is recommended or required. With so many people crowded into one area, it can become quite dark and hard for people to identify each other in low-light conditions.
This lack of visibility is why wearing bright colors like orange or yellow can be beneficial in helping fellow attendees spot each other from across the space. Also, hi-vis clothing can help event staff identify attendees from afar who may have separated from their group during the event.
Things To Consider When Buying Hi-Vis Clothing
When buying hi-vis clothing, you must consider some key factors. Here are some things to ponder before investing in hi-vis clothing.
Fit and Comfort
When purchasing hi-vis clothing for an employee or yourself, ensure the fit is comfortable and appropriate for the job. If the garment is too tight or loose, it will reduce its effectiveness—and no one wants to be stuck wearing an uncomfortable shirt all day long! Check the manufacturer's size chart and purchase garments tailored to your employee's body shape. Additionally, look for features like mesh panels or breathable fabrics that can help with air circulation and comfort during extended wear.
Durability
Hi-vis clothing must withstand wear and tear, especially when worn at a construction site or other harsh environments. Look for garments made with ripstop fabric or reinforced stitching, as these features will help extend the life of your hi-vis gear while providing superior protection against rips and tears. Don't forget to check out product reviews from other customers; this can give you an idea of how durable each piece of apparel is.
Brightness and Reflective Properties
The whole point of hi-vis clothing is to help people easily spot you in low-light conditions, so make sure you select bright garments for maximum visibility. Also, consider reflective properties; many hi-vis garments feature reflective strips or patterns that can be spotted from far away, which is especially important when working near busy roads or highways.
How To Make Sure Hi-Vis Clothing Is Worn Properly
Once you've purchased the right hi-vis clothing, it's important to ensure you wear it properly. This advice may sound basic, but you'd be surprised how often garments are worn incorrectly. These are a few tips to ensure hi-vis clothes are on the right way:
- Ensure the attire fits properly—not too loose or too tight.
- Make sure any reflective strips are facing outward, away from the body.
- Ensure all closures (zippers, buttons, etc.) are properly secured.
- If the garment is layered, make sure all layers are hi-vis.
No matter what industry you are in or what activity you are participating in, there may come a time when wearing high-visibility apparel becomes necessary for your safety. You also want to ensure you invest in hi-vis clothing that is comfortable and durable enough to withstand any environment or situation.
By taking the time to familiarize yourself with the different types of hi-vis apparel available and understanding the purpose behind each piece, you'll be able to make an informed decision when selecting your hi-vis clothing. With the right gear, you can stay safe and visible in any environment.
Hi Vis Safety is here to help you find the right hi-vis apparel. We have been providing quality safety wear for over 20 years and offer a wide selection of garments from all the top brands. Find hi-vis rainwear for construction sites and durable hi-vis clothes that you can use in any environment. Explore our selection today and find the hi-vis apparel you need to stay safe and visible!
