Finding the proper protective equipment for construction, electrical, and utility workers is vital. These workers require special clothing and personal protective equipment to work in hazardous conditions. A hi vis softshell jacket is one such safety outfit used by workers in different work environments. These jackets are flashy and can quickly locate the workers and keep them from harm’s way.
But buying can get complicated if you don’t have crucial information about these jackets. You can check the following section for more.
How do hi vis softshell jackets work?
Hi vis softshell jackets are fluorescent-coloured protective clothing with reflective shapes and tapes that contribute to improved visibility of workers on a work site.
For instance, the use of heavy machinery in construction sites is quite common, and if the operator cannot see the workers clearly, it may lead to fatal accidents. Hi-vis jackets contrast with the surroundings making workers clearly noticeable and easily avoided by heavy machinery.
What colours do you get Hi-Vis jackets in?
You can get hi-vis jackets in different colours, and the choice of colour depends on specific circumstances. The three acceptable colours are red, orange and fluorescent lime.
A fluorescent green or yellow shade is the most commonly used, providing adequate visibility in all weather conditions and any time of the day. This clothing works best when it stands out from the rest of the work environment.
What are the different classes of Hi Vis jackets?
Retroreflective performance, luminosity and colours and the portion of the body these jackets must cover determine the class of Hi-vis jackets. The three categories of these jackets are:
Class 1
A class 1 hi vis softshell jacket offers good visibility and low body coverage. These jackets are suitable for low-impact areas where traffic flow does not go beyond the average speed. Parking valet or delivery parkers use Class 1 jackets.
Class 2
A class 2 jacket provides excellent visibility and average body coverage. It is best for areas with low visibility and heavy traffic. Wildlife rangers and airport workers use jackets in this class.
Class 3
Class 3 jackets provide total body coverage and high visibility even in far distances and low-light conditions. Utility crews, site inspectors, railway workers and emergency responders commonly use these jackets.
What material is used in hi-vis clothing?
The two materials used in hi-vis clothing are glass bead reflective tape and micro-prismatic tape.
In commercial hi-vis clothing, you can find glass bead reflective tape on silver-grey strips. The material is cheaper and reflects light at a wider angle.
A micro-prismatic tape is a form of plastic vinyl with several tiny prisms. The prisms bounce light internally, which then reflects at the source. The light reflected from the material holds its intensity well and travels a great distance.
Are hi-vis jackets expensive?
You cannot get a hi vis softshell jacket at a low price. So, you should start planning and saving money for your purchase. Even though these jackets are expensive, they last long. You should therefore invest in high-quality hi-vis workwear that will provide adequate protection instead of falling for the temptation of cheaper alternatives.
Since you have gathered quite a lot of information on hi-vis jackets, you are all set to buy one. However, ensure you pick the one that fits you perfectly so your comfort is not compromised. Also, pay attention to your jacket’s care and maintenance. You should try to get one that is easy to maintain so you don’t have to worry about its functionality and quality despite its regular use.
Author: Sylvia James