5 Red Flags to Watch for When Choosing Hi-Vis Workwear

If you're in charge of worker safety, selecting the right high-visibility (hi-vis) workwear isn't just important; it's essential. Not all hi-vis apparel is built the same, and poor-quality workwear can fall short, exposing workers to serious risks. From compromised safety to non-compliance and costly replacements, the wrong choice can have dangerous consequences. In this article, we'll explore the critical red flags to watch for when choosing hi-vis workwear and how innovative, industry-leading solutions can help you avoid these pitfalls.

Common Red Flags in Hi-Vis Workwear

Before investing in hi-vis workwear, it's essential to know the red flags that indicate poor quality. Identifying these problems early on can prevent costly mistakes and protect your workforce.

#1: Poor Reflective Quality

Some high-visibility apparel uses subpar reflective materials that don’t perform well in low-light conditions. This is especially dangerous in roadside construction zones, where workers must remain visible to drivers, particularly at night. Poor-quality reflective materials can fail to reflect light effectively, causing workers to blend into their surroundings, which could lead to fatal accidents. In fact, an ISEA/ANSI study found that up to 30% of the reflective vests tested were non-compliant with safety standards.

Inadequate reflective materials also fail to meet ANSI/ISEA standards, which can not only put workers at risk but also cause companies to face regulatory penalties. A garment's reflective tape should provide 360-degree visibility, allowing workers to be seen from all angles. Without this feature, even a reflective vest becomes almost useless at night or in dimly lit environments.

Watch Now: How to Perform a Garment Inspection.

#2: Fading and Wear Over Time

Fading is a significant concern for workers who spend long hours outdoors in environments exposed to direct sunlight, rain, dirt, or other harsh elements. The UV rays from the sun can break down the vibrant fluorescent colors, while wear from daily use can degrade reflective tapes and fabric integrity.

For example, construction workers and utility crews often face exposure to these harsh conditions, and their hi-vis workwear needs to withstand repeated washing and outdoor elements. If the fabric fades, workers become less visible, especially during the day. If the reflective tape deteriorates, it compromises nighttime safety.

#3: Using the Wrong Class for the Job

Hi-vis workwear is classified into different performance levels (Class 1, 2, or 3) based on the work environment and visibility needs. For instance, Class 1 apparel is intended for environments with minimal risk, like warehouse settings where vehicle speeds and other risk factors are low. Workers exposed to high-speed traffic, such as highway construction crews, require Class 3 apparel, which offers the most reflective coverage.

Using the wrong class for the job can result in workers not being sufficiently visible, especially in higher-risk environments. For example, wearing Class 1 workwear in a high-traffic construction zone could lead to an accident due to insufficient reflectivity and coverage. Similarly, wearing Class 3 workwear in a lower-risk environment can offer extra visibility, which is always beneficial. However, it's important to consider that this type of gear may feel warmer, especially in hot climates, so selecting appropriate materials is key to staying comfortable.

Learn More: Why High-Visibility Safety Apparel (HVSA) Is Important to the Transportation Industry.

#4: Discomfort and Poor Fit

Comfort directly impacts the willingness of workers to wear their protective workwear for long periods. If a vest or jacket is too tight, it can restrict movement, making it difficult for workers to perform their tasks. On the other hand, oversized workwear can become a hazard in itself, as loose fabric can snag on equipment or get in the way during critical tasks.

This issue is particularly relevant in industries like roadwork or utilities, where workers need to stay visible for extended shifts in varying weather conditions. High-visibility workwear that doesn't account for temperature, moisture, or breathability may cause workers to overheat in the summer or leave them feeling too cold in winter, leading to unnecessary risks. Roadwork crews often switch between different hi-vis garments throughout the day, starting with layers for cooler mornings and transitioning to lighter options as temperatures rise in the afternoon.

Read More: Ensuring Worker Safety with Properly Fitting PPE.

#5: Lack of Durability

In industries like construction, utilities, and transportation, workers are constantly moving and interacting with various tools and machinery. Some hi-vis apparel is made with low-quality materials that tear or degrade quickly in demanding environments. Zippers may break, fabric may tear, and pockets can wear out, rendering the garment unusable.

Frequent replacements not only increase operational costs but also lead to periods where workers may not have proper protective clothing available, increasing their risk of injury. Additionally, if a garment fails during use, such as a zipper breaking or a pocket tearing, workers might hesitate to report it, thinking it's a minor issue, but that could lead to significant hazards.

Recognizing these red flags is the first step. Now, let's explore how a trusted brand like Kishigo addresses these issues and goes beyond industry standards to provide safety apparel that truly performs.

How Kishigo Addresses These Red Flags

At Kishigo, we've spent decades perfecting high-visibility workwear, focusing on solving the issues that put workers at risk. Here's how our innovative approach ensures safety, durability, and comfort:

• Superior Reflective Technology and Visibility: We use advanced reflective materials that meet and exceed ANSI/ISEA standards. Our products ensure optimal visibility in both bright daylight and low-light conditions, keeping workers visible even in the most demanding environments.
• Durability and Reinforcement: We reinforce high-stress areas, such as zippers and pockets, with bartacks or additional stitching reinforcement that strengthens the garment without compromising its appearance. This craftsmanship extends the lifespan of our apparel, ensuring long-lasting protection.
• Class-Appropriate Designs for Specific Jobs: We offer a full range of performance classes (1, 2, 3, and E) and types (O, R, and P) to ensure workers have the right protection for their environment. Whether it's road construction, warehousing, or other tasks, we provide tailored solutions to meet every need.
• Comfort-Driven Features: Our workwear is designed with breathable mesh panels, ergonomic fits, and padded collars to maximize comfort. We offer apparel tailored for both men and women, providing a customizable fit that enhances both safety and performance.
• Continuous Quality Control: At Kishigo, we maintain strict quality checks throughout every stage of our manufacturing process. Unlike competitors who cut corners, we ensure that every product meets our high durability, safety, and functionality standards.

For over fifty years, we've set the standard in high-visibility workwear. Ready to protect your team with the best safety apparel? Choose Kishigo for durable, compliant, and comfortable gear that keeps your workers visible and safe in any environment. Don't compromise on safety; contact us today to learn how we can help safeguard your team with industry-leading hi-vis workwear.