Dress for Success: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Right Workwear for the Job

Workwear Types and Classes 

Choosing the right hi-vis workwear is essential to staying safe and seen on the job. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) provides clear guidelines to help workers select the appropriate gear based on their environment and exposure risks.

Garment Types: Each hi-vis garment falls into one of three types:

- Type O (Off-Road): Designed for workers in environments away from public roadways, such as warehouses or construction sites.

- Type R (Roadway): Intended for workers exposed to roadway traffic, offering enhanced visibility in complex or high-speed environments. 

- Type P (Emergency): Built for emergency/Incident Responders/Law Enforcement.

Visibility Classes: Garments are also categorized into four classes based on the level of visibility they provide:

- Class 1: Offers the lowest level of visibility. Suitable for non-complex work environments where roadway speeds are not a hazard.

- Class 2: Minimum level of high visibility safety apparel for roadway or temporary traffic control instances.

- Class 3: Offers the highest rated visibility for complex backgrounds and roadway speeds.

- Supplemental Class E: Not rated on their own but classified as a Class 3 garment when worn with a Class 2 or Class 3.

Note: Workers in Canada should follow CSA standards

Material Matters

Knowing the best material for your environment can be a major factor in enhancing a worker's experience on the job.

Mesh: Hi-vis vests are a practical and effective safety solution especially for visitors or team members who may not have their own hi-vis gear. One of the most common materials used for these vests is mesh, which is often lightweight and breathable. However, not all mesh materials are created equal. Some mesh constructions may not conform to applicable visibility standards or jobsite requirements. When properly designed, mesh vests promote airflow and comfort while still providing an added layer of visibility that helps keep everyone safe and seen.

UPF Rated: UPF-rated garments help protect covered skin by blocking most harmful UV radiation before it reaches the body. For example, UPF 50 fabric blocks approximately 98% of UVA and UVB rays under standard testing conditions. This added level of protection can be especially beneficial during the summer months, when UV exposure is at its peak. Unlike sunscreen, which may wear off or be applied inconsistently, UPF-rated apparel delivers reliable protection to covered areas when worn properly. Constructed with durable, breathable materials, these garments help outdoor workers stay more comfortable while working in the sun. 

Moisture-Wicking: Moisture-wicking garments are another smart choice for staying comfortable during the hot summer months. These fabrics are specially designed to pull sweat away from the skin and move it to the surface of the material—where it can dry more quickly in the sun, helping workers stay cooler, drier, and more focused, even in high temperatures.

FR-Rated (Flame-Resistant): For professionals working in environments where fire hazards are present, such as electricians, welders, and oil and gas workers, flame-resistant garments provide an important layer of protection. These garments are engineered to resist ignition and help minimize continued flame spread after brief exposure to a heat or flame source, helping reduce the risk of serious burn injuries. 

Waterproof: Waterproof PPE is not just a necessity in the rain. It can be extremely useful for increasing the comfort of laborers that are working in other wet conditions such as on docks or in snow. Waterproof PPE prevents water from soaking in, which helps maintain comfort, especially when the air is cold.  

Insulating: Bundling up should not have to jeopardize your visibility and mobility at work. Hi-vis garments that have insulating properties are designed to hold in body heat and reflect it back to the individual, reducing the need for extra layers that can limit mobility, which can happen with too many thick, heavy layers.