How Often Should You Replace Your Hi-Vis Clothing?

Hi-vis clothing is crucial for worker safety, particularly in low-light conditions or high-risk environments. The EN ISO 20471 standard specifies requirements for high-visibility clothing, ensuring garments provide enhanced visibility to keep workers safe.

EN ISO 20471 classifies hi-vis garments into three classes based on risk levels:

• Class 1: Lowest visibility for minimal risk environments.
• Class 2: Moderate visibility for medium risk environments.
• Class 3: Highest visibility for high-risk environments.

The standard requires specific amounts of fluorescent and retro-reflective materials to ensure maximum visibility from all angles.

To maintain the effectiveness of hi-vis clothing:

• Follow washing instructions: Adhere to the manufacturer’s washing instructions to prevent damage to the reflective strips and fluorescent material.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as these can degrade the reflective properties.
• Inspect regularly: Check for signs of wear and tear, such as fading, fraying, or damage to reflective strips.
• Proper storage: Store hi-vis garments in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Hi-vis clothing should be replaced when it no longer meets visibility standards. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time for replacement:

• Fading or dulling: If the fluorescent material has faded, the garment will not provide adequate visibility.
• Damaged reflective strips: Reflective strips that are cracked, peeling, or worn out reduce the garment’s effectiveness.
• Excessive wear or tear: Any significant wear or damage that compromises the garment’s integrity warrants replacement.

Typically, hi-vis clothing has a lifespan of about 6 months to 1 year, depending on the frequency of use and washing cycles. For those using hi-vis clothing daily, it’s advisable to replace it every 6 months to ensure optimal safety.

Selecting a reliable hi-vis supplier is crucial for ensuring quality and compliance with safety standards. Here are key factors to consider:

1. Compliance with standards: Ensure the supplier’s products comply with EN ISO 20471 and other relevant safety standards, such as GO/RT 3279 for railway workers.
2. Reputation & reliability: Choose a supplier with a strong reputation for quality and reliability. Check customer reviews and testimonials.
3. Range of products: Look for a supplier offering a wide range of hi-vis clothing options to meet different needs and environments.
4. Customisation options: If branding is important, ensure the supplier can provide customisation without compromising safety standards.
5. Customer support: Good customer support can assist with product selection, customisation, and addressing any issues that arise.
6. Pricing & value: Compare prices, but also consider the value offered in terms of product quality, durability, and service.

Regularly inspecting and replacing hi-vis clothing is vital to ensure worker safety. By adhering to care instructions and recognising signs of wear, you can maintain the effectiveness of your hi-vis garments and comply with safety standards. Choosing a reputable supplier is equally important to ensure you receive quality products that meet all necessary regulations.