Hi Vis Jackets

About Hi Vis Jackets

Hi vis jackets are essential personal protective equipment designed to keep workers visible and safe in low-light conditions and hazardous environments. These fluorescent garments incorporate reflective tape and high-visibility materials that meet strict British and European safety standards, ensuring wearers can be seen clearly by vehicle operators, machinery drivers, and site personnel. Available in Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 visibility ratings according to EN ISO 20471, hi vis jackets cater to various risk levels from basic warehouse work to high-speed motorway environments.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range including lightweight bomber jackets, waterproof rain jackets, and specialist flame-resistant options featuring BizFlame and Modaflame technologies. Our selection includes durable 300D Oxford weave constructions, multi-norm protection garments, and versatile 3-in-1 designs with removable linings. Leading brands like Portwest ensure proven reliability with rigorous testing and certification, whilst contrast panelling options help maintain a professional appearance in demanding working conditions.

Applications

Hi vis jackets are worn across numerous trades and industries where visibility is paramount:

• Construction workers – site labourers, groundworkers, and general builders on active sites
• Highway maintenance crews – road workers, traffic management personnel, and council maintenance teams
• Warehouse operatives – forklift drivers, loading bay staff, and logistics personnel
• Delivery drivers – couriers and haulage workers loading and unloading vehicles
• Railway workers – trackside maintenance staff working near live railways
• Emergency services – paramedics, firefighters, and rescue personnel
• Refuse collection teams – waste management operatives working alongside traffic
• Airport ground crew – baggage handlers and marshalling staff on active aprons
• Utilities workers – electricians, gas engineers, and telecommunications engineers
• Security personnel – site security and event marshals requiring visibility during night shifts

Choosing The Right Hi Vis Jackets

Determine visibility class requirements: Class 3 is mandatory for high-speed roads and motorways, Class 2 suits general construction and roadside work, whilst Class 1 may suffice for warehouses and low-risk areas. Always consult your employer's risk assessment or HSE guidance.

Consider weather protection: Waterproof rain jackets with sealed seams suit outdoor work, insulated bomber jackets provide cold weather protection, whilst breathable options work better in warmer conditions. Many 3-in-1 designs offer removable fleece linings for year-round versatility.

Assess specialist protection needs: Workers facing flames, welding, electrical hazards, or chemicals should select multi-protection garments. BizFlame and Modaflame ranges at MyToolShed.co.uk offer certified flame resistance, anti-static properties, and arc flash protection.

Evaluate durability: Higher denier Oxford weave fabrics (such as 300D) provide superior tear and abrasion resistance for demanding trades. Contrast panelling helps maintain professional appearance between washes whilst ensuring all reflective elements remain visible and compliant with EN ISO 20471 standards.

Safety Information

Hi vis jackets must be properly maintained to retain protective properties and safety certification. Regularly inspect reflective tape for damage, cracking, or delamination, as compromised retroreflective material significantly reduces visibility. Wash garments according to manufacturer instructions – harsh chemicals and excessive temperatures can degrade fluorescent dyes and reflective elements.

Replace hi vis jackets when fluorescent colours fade noticeably, reflective tape becomes damaged, or after approximately 50 wash cycles as recommended by most manufacturers. Never modify jackets by removing or covering reflective tape, as this invalidates certification and compromises safety. Flame-resistant jackets exposed to flames or excessive heat must be replaced immediately regardless of wash count.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between Class 2 and Class 3 hi vis jackets?

Class 3 jackets provide the highest visibility with greater amounts of fluorescent material and reflective tape, including full sleeve coverage with 360-degree reflective bands. They're legally required for high-speed roads, motorways, and the most hazardous environments. Class 2 offers medium visibility suitable for general construction and moderate traffic areas with less comprehensive coverage.

How often should hi vis jackets be replaced?

Replace hi vis jackets when fluorescent colours fade significantly, reflective tape becomes damaged, or after approximately 50 wash cycles. Conduct regular visual inspections under various lighting conditions – if visibility appears compromised or garments show excessive wear, withdraw them from service immediately.

Do I need a flame-resistant hi vis jacket for electrical work?

If you work with live electrical equipment or face arc flash risks, yes – standard hi vis jackets offer no protection against electrical hazards. BizFlame and Modaflame ranges available at MyToolShed.co.uk provide certified protection against arc flash, flames, and heat whilst maintaining high visibility. Consult your employer's risk assessment to determine appropriate PPE requirements.