In the construction world, visibility is key. Whether in a dark tunnel or a crowded highway, you want to ensure your workers are visible and safe. Two of the most common kinds of visibility wear used for this purpose are hi-vis and enhanced visibility.
But what’s the difference between the two? Let’s take a look at what sets them apart.
Hi-Vis Gear
Hi-vis gear stands for “High Visibility Gear.” Construction industry employers often refer to them as ANSI (American National Standards Institute) compliant gear, meaning it meets the standards set by ANSI for reflective clothing worn by workers in hazardous conditions. Hi-vis gear is usually fluorescent yellow or orange with reflective stripes on it.
This type of clothing makes workers more visible at night or in low light conditions by reflecting light off their clothing back to its source, making them easier to see. The downside is that hi-vis gear is only visible when illuminated by a light source; if there is no light source nearby, it won’t be visible.
Enhanced Visibility Wear
Enhanced visibility wear (EVW) works differently than hi-vis gear because it has reflective material that displays light even if there isn’t a direct source illuminating it. Workers wearing EVW will be more visible in any lighting condition—even pitch darkness! EVW is more durable than hi-vis gear, as it consists of tougher materials like nylon or leather instead of cotton or polyester blends. The only downside is that EVW may not meet certain ANSI requirements for hazardous work environments, so check before purchasing it for your team!
Which Visibility Wear Is Right for You?
When deciding which type of visibility wear is right for your team, consider the differences between each carefully before making your decision. Hi-vis gear is great for being seen in low-light conditions but may not meet certain safety standards. Conversely, EVW offers increased visibility no matter the lighting environment you’re in, but it may not be as durable as other options. Whichever you choose, make sure your construction workers stay safe out there!
Hi Vis Safety has custom high-visibility clothing and gear designed to meet your needs. We offer ANSI-compliant hi-vis, EVW, and a wide range of other safety products and equipment. Contact us today for more information about our visibility wear!