Hi Vis Jumpers

About Hi Vis Jumpers

Hi vis jumpers combine essential workplace visibility with thermal comfort, making them indispensable for tradespeople working in hazardous or low-light environments. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of high visibility sweatshirts, hoodies, and pullovers that meet stringent EN ISO 20471 safety standards, available in both Class 2 and Class 3 certification levels. From overhead hoodies and zip-up sweatshirts to quarter-zip pullovers and funnel neck designs, these garments feature strategically positioned retroreflective tape to ensure 360-degree visibility in all conditions.

Leading brands like Portwest dominate the range at MyToolShed, with specialised collections including the DX4 series offering contemporary styling with technical performance fabrics, and the PW2 range engineered for all-day comfort. Many designs incorporate practical features such as reinforced seams, multiple pockets for tools and mobile devices, and moisture-wicking materials. For workers exposed to heat and flame hazards, flame-resistant options like the Modaflame range provide crucial additional protection whilst maintaining high visibility standards.

Applications

Hi vis jumpers are essential workwear across numerous UK trades and industries:

• Construction Workers - Site labourers, bricklayers, and general builders on busy construction sites
• Road Workers - Highway maintenance crews, traffic management operatives, and road construction teams
• Warehouse Staff - Forklift operators, logistics personnel, and distribution centre workers
• Railway Workers - Track maintenance crews, signalling engineers, and station staff
• Delivery Drivers - Couriers and lorry drivers making roadside deliveries
• Emergency Services - Paramedics, fire service personnel, and breakdown recovery operators
• Utility Workers - Electricians, gas engineers, and telecoms engineers working on public infrastructure
• Security Personnel - Event security, car park attendants, and site security officers
• Surveyors - Professionals visiting multiple construction and industrial sites

Choosing The Right Hi Vis Jumpers

Certification Level: Determine whether you require Class 2 or Class 3 visibility. Class 3 garments offer maximum visibility with increased retroreflective tape coverage, mandatory for high-risk environments such as motorway work. Always check your employer's requirements and HSE guidance.

Style and Design: Consider your working conditions when selecting between overhead hoodies, zip-up sweatshirts, or quarter-zip designs. Zip-front styles offer easier removal and better temperature regulation, whilst overhead designs provide fewer potential snag points. The Portwest DX4 range delivers contemporary styling suitable for customer-facing roles.

Material and Comfort: Look for breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for physical work. Polyester-cotton blends offer durability and comfort, whilst fleece-lined options provide extra warmth for winter conditions. Consider whether you need flame-resistant variants like Modaflame for welding or electrical work.

Practical Features: Assess pocket configuration, reinforced high-wear areas, and ribbed cuffs for heat retention. Two-tone designs with contrasting dark panels help conceal dirt whilst maintaining full visibility standards and offering a more professional appearance.

Safety Information

Hi vis jumpers are classified as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and must comply with EN ISO 20471 standards. The HSE requires employers to conduct risk assessments to determine appropriate visibility levels for specific working environments. Regular inspection is essential—replace garments with cracked, peeled, or contaminated reflective tape immediately. Follow manufacturer washing instructions and avoid fabric softeners which diminish reflectivity. Most quality hi vis garments maintain certification for approximately 50 wash cycles when properly cared for. Flame-resistant variants must be worn by personnel working near welding operations or electrical hazards, and should never be combined with non-FR layers that could compromise protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Class 3 garments feature more retroreflective tape and fluorescent material than Class 2, providing maximum visibility for high-risk environments such as motorway work and areas with fast-moving traffic. Class 2 is suitable for lower-risk environments like warehouses and construction sites with controlled traffic. The specific class required depends on your risk assessment and HSE guidance.

Are two-tone hi vis jumpers as safe as single-colour ones?

Yes, provided they meet the same EN ISO 20471 classification. Two-tone designs with navy or black contrast panels incorporate the required amount of fluorescent material and reflective tape for their class rating, offering practical benefits including concealing dirt whilst maintaining full safety compliance.

How should I care for my hi vis jumper to maintain its reflective properties?

Wash according to manufacturer instructions, typically at 40-60°C, and avoid fabric softeners which can coat reflective tape. Turn garments inside out before washing and air dry when possible. Inspect regularly for damaged reflective tape and replace garments when reflectivity diminishes.