If you are one of the employees who work in an industry that poses a high risk to your physical safety, you will most likely require high visibility clothing. The type of hi vis workwear you need will depend on a few factors, including the risks or hazards you’ll likely to face, as well as the job site’s environmental conditions.
Shopping for hi vis workwear may seem easy and straightforward, but it can be a bit complicated. With so many options and products in the market, how do you know which type you need? Buying cheap high vis clothing doesn’t always mean they meet the relevant standards. Make sure you do your research to ensure you are protected.
There are a few standards that legislate the workwear industry in Australia:
- Australian Standard AS/NZS 1906.4.2010 – a standard for the colours used for visibility
- Australian Standard AS/NZS 4602.1.2011 – a standard to the garment requirements
- Australian Standard AS 4399:2020 – relating to the ability to provide from UV radiation
Australian Standard AS/NZS 1906.4.2010
This standard relates to the colours used for the visibility of hi vis workwear. It specifies the photometric, colourmetric and physical properties for the various high visibility materials. It categorizes materials into three classes:
- Class F – Fluorescent fabric for Day Use Only such as hi vis yellows, hi vis oranges, etc.
- Class R – Reflective fabric for Night Use Only such as hi vis clothing with 3M reflective tape. It is vital to understand the impact of washing Class R materials. The washing process slowly disintegrates the reflective properties of the material. Most reflective tapes used in Australia only remain compliant for about 30 washes.
- Class RF – Both Fluorescent and Reflective fabric for Day/Night Use
Australian Standard AS/NZS 4602.1.2011
This standard relates to the garment requirements of hi vis workwear. It specifies the design of the garments used by employees who are exposed to hazards from moving vehicles, equipment, or other high-risk situations. There are 3 classes within the standard for different times of day:
- Class D = Daytime use
- Class N = Nighttime use, using retroreflective material
- Class D/N = Day/Night use
Australian Standard AS 4399:2020
This standard relates to the ability to provide from UV radiation. It refers to the capability of the hi vis clothing’s fabric to protect skin against solar ultraviolet radiation (known as the UPF = ultraviolet protection factor). This standard is an added bonus to the garment rather than an essential requirement for hi-visibility standards but is often specified from specific industry users.
Furthermore, this standard would be especially important for industries that work outside such as landscapers, roofers, concreters and the mining sector.
When shopping for a hi vis clothing, make sure it complies with the Australian Standards, and that the clothing is appropriate according to WHEN it is being used. Once the workwear is purchased, the responsibility then rests with the employer to ensure it is used appropriately and safely.
If you’re in an industry where lack of visibility can lead to injuries or accidents, your choice of hi vis clothing is crucial, and you should invest in quality high-vis workwear.
All hi vis workwear sold through Southland Supply Group meet these high standards and we only stock quality produced garments. It can save your life. Stay visible and safe with the right high vis clothing from Southland.