Portwest Hi-Vis Clothing

Frequently Asked Questions

Class 3 carries more fluorescent background and reflective material and covers more of the body, including the arms. Class 2 suits work near traffic moving at moderate speeds or against busy backgrounds. Class 3 is for higher-speed roadways and low-light or night work. If your site or contract names a class, buy that class, since they are not interchangeable.

The ones carrying enough background material and reflective tape for that class, which the product page states. Many sleeved hi-vis shirts meet Class 2, and a Class 2 vest worn over a compliant long-sleeve top can make a Class 3 ensemble. Enhanced-visibility tees are built for lower-risk work and state their rating separately.

Both are recognized fluorescent colors under ANSI/ISEA 107, so either can meet the standard. The choice usually comes down to contrast with your surroundings: yellow-green stands out against dark and urban backgrounds, orange against foliage and snow. Some employers and state DOTs specify one color, so check before buying for a crew.

Until the fluorescent color fades or the reflective tape cracks, peels or dulls. Washing, sunlight and abrasion all wear it down, and a faded garment no longer delivers the visibility the class assumes. Replace it when the color looks washed out next to a new one or the tape no longer reflects brightly.

Hi-vis that is itself flame resistant. Standard polyester hi-vis can melt or ignite and defeat the FR layer underneath, so on sites with an FR requirement choose a garment rated for both. See our Portwest flame resistant clothing range.

A class-rated outer layer, since a compliant vest under a dark coat does nothing. Hi-vis bomber jackets, parkas and winter coveralls carry the class in the outer shell, and 3-in-1 systems let you wear the shell alone in milder weather. See our Portwest jackets range.

Many are, particularly vests and t-shirts, which ship in 12-packs as well as singly. That is how most safety managers and contractors buy them. The product title states the pack size. See our Portwest safety vests range.

Cold or warm, with mild detergent, no bleach and no fabric softener, then line dry or tumble dry low. Bleach fades the fluorescent color and heat damages the reflective tape. Following the care label keeps the garment compliant for longer. Browse the full Portwest range.

Portwest Hi-Vis Clothing

Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Class 2 and Class 3 hi-vis?

Which hi-vis t-shirts meet Class 2 or Class 3?

Yellow or orange hi-vis?

How long does hi-vis clothing stay compliant?

What hi-vis can I wear over flame-resistant clothing?

What hi-vis do I need for winter work?

Are hi-vis garments sold in crew packs?

How should hi-vis be washed?