What is a class 1 vest?

What is a Class 1 Vest? Your Guide to High-Visibility Safety Gear

Staying safe and visible on the job is crucial, especially when working in low-light conditions or near traffic. That's where high-visibility safety vests (HVSVs) come in, but with different classes available, picking the right one can be confusing.

Fear not, visibility warriors! This blog post dives deep into the world of Class 1 vests, answering all your burning questions:

What exactly is a Class 1 vest?

Imagine a bright yellow or orange vest adorned with reflective stripes. That's essentially a Class 1 vest! It's the entry-level in the HVSV world, offering basic visibility in low-risk environments. Typically, these environments involve:

• Traffic speeds below 25 mph (think parking lots, warehouses, or sidewalks)

• Work zones with physical barriers separating workers from traffic

• Off-road settings like construction sites or farms

Key features of a Class 1 vest:

• Minimum of 155 square inches of reflective material in a specific configuration (around torso and shoulders)

• Safety yellow or orange background for maximum daytime visibility

• Lightweight and breathable for comfort in warmer environments

• Often sleeveless for ease of movement

Who needs a Class 1 vest?

A Class 1 vest is suitable for various professions, including:

• Parking attendants

• Delivery drivers

• Roadside assistance personnel

• Warehouse workers

• Security guards

• Landscapers

• Construction workers in low-traffic areas

Remember: While Class 1 vests offer basic protection, they might not be sufficient in high-risk environments like highways or heavy traffic zones. In those cases, consider upgrading to Class 2 or 3 vests for enhanced visibility and protection.

Bonus tips for choosing the right vest:

• Check the certification label to ensure the vest meets ANSI/ISEA 107 standards.

• Consider the climate and choose a breathable fabric for comfort.

• Opt for features like pockets, closures, and hi-vis colours for added functionality.

Stay safe, stay visible, and choose the right vest for your needs! View our range of hi vis vests here

By sharing this post, you can help others stay safe and informed about high-visibility safety gear!