When your team is in the field, your workers need to wear safety vests, or high-visibility vests. These vests are made with highly reflective materials that keep individual workers visible, especially at night. All safety vests are rated and approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Safety vests are classified as Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3, based on the amount of both reflective material and high contrast (orange or lime color) fabric making up the vest. The degree of reflectivity in the tape and intensity of the background fabric colors are specified in the ANSI standard. The more hazardous your workplace, the more visible your team needs to be.

Learn about the differences between the classes of hi-vis vests and when to use each.

Class 1 Safety Vests

Class 1 vests are essential for professionals operating in environments where the separation from traffic is substantial, and vehicle speeds do not surpass 25 mph. These vests meet the minimum requirements for high-visibility clothing in professional settings, underscoring the necessity of being visible in low-risk situations. Ideal for parking lot attendants, delivery personnel, and roadside assistance workers, these vests ensure safety by incorporating at least 155 square inches of reflective tape for optimal visibility.

Class 2 Safety Vests

Designed for more challenging conditions, Class 2 safety vests cater to environments with inclement weather, proximity to roadways, and traffic exceeding 25 mph. Providing a moderate visibility level, these vests are tailored for individuals whose tasks may divert their attention from oncoming traffic. With a requirement for at least 201 square inches of reflective tape, these vests are a critical safety measure for airport personnel, toll booth operators, and forest workers, enhancing their focus and safety without compromising visibility.

Class 3 Safety Vests

Class 3 safety vests offer the utmost level of visibility for professionals engaged near fast-moving traffic or in areas with poor visibility conditions. These garments are essential for emergency responders, roadway construction teams, utility workers, and surveyors, providing comprehensive protection and visibility. With a minimum of 310 square inches of reflective tape, these vests are designed to outline the full silhouette of the wearer, ensuring they are unmistakably visible and safe in any work condition.