High-Visibility Clothing (EN ISO 20471)

The class is set by the minimum area of fluorescent background material and reflective tape on the garment. Class 1 needs at least 0.14 m² of background and 0.10 m² of reflective material, Class 2 at least 0.50 m² and 0.13 m², and Class 3 at least 0.80 m² and 0.20 m². Class 3 is the most visible.

Whatever the material area, a Class 3 garment must cover the torso and have reflective bands on sleeves, on full-length trouser legs, or both. So a vest or tabard on its own can't be Class 3, and a jacket with zip-off sleeves may drop to a lower class with the sleeves removed. The label shows the class for each way of wearing it.

Yes, if that combination has been certified. For example, a Class 2 jacket worn with Class 2 trousers can be certified as Class 3, and the higher class is then shown on the labels and user information of both garments. Wearing two garments together doesn't raise the class unless the combination is certified, so check the labels or ask us.

It can. The class comes from measured areas of material, so on some styles the smaller sizes reach a lower class than the larger ones. Check the label or the maker's datasheet for the class of the size you're ordering.

Your risk assessment, client or site rules set the class. As a general guide, Class 1 suits lower-risk areas away from traffic, Class 2 suits work near public roads, and Class 3 is usual next to fast traffic and for roadside work in darkness. GB rail work needs orange clothing certified to RIS-3279-TOM.

Product pages show the class the maker gives, and the label and the maker's datasheet show the certified class, including for each size and any certified combinations. If you'd like help choosing, email sales@theworkwearco.com with the job and the class you need.