Discover what EN ISO 20471 means for hi-vis clothing. Learn about classes, requirements & compliance to keep your workforce visible, safe, and compliant.
When it comes to workplace safety, high-visibility clothing isn’t just a recommendation, it’s a necessity. In industries such as construction, roadwork, logistics, and rail, being seen is vital for preventing accidents and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. That’s where EN ISO 20471 comes in.
This international standard sets out the requirements for high-visibility workwear to ensure workers are clearly visible in all light conditions, from daylight to low-light environments. If your team wears hi-vis, understanding this standard is essential.
What is EN ISO 20471?
EN ISO 20471 is the European standard for high-visibility clothing. It specifies requirements for garments that are capable of visually signalling the presence of the wearer.
The clothing must use:
- Fluorescent materials for daytime visibility.
- Retroreflective materials (reflective strips) for low-light/night-time visibility.
Together, these materials enhance visibility against any background, helping workers stand out in hazardous environments.
The 3 Classes of EN ISO 20471
High-visibility clothing is classified into three performance levels based on the amount of visible fluorescent and reflective material.
Class 1 – Lowest Level of Visibility
- Minimum protection.
- Suitable for low-risk environments with slow-moving vehicles (e.g., warehouse work, private roads).
- Example: Hi-vis trousers worn with non-reflective tops.
Class 2 – Intermediate Level of Visibility
- A balance between protection and comfort.
- Designed for environments with traffic up to 60 km/h.
- Example: Hi-vis vests or jackets.
Class 3 – Highest Level of Visibility
- Maximum visibility for the highest-risk environments.
- Required where workers are exposed to high-speed traffic or poor visibility.
- Example: Hi-vis jackets with sleeves, full sets of hi-vis clothing.
Tip: Employers must ensure their workers’ clothing meets the class appropriate for the risks they face.
Key Requirements of EN ISO 20471
To meet the standard, garments must include:
✔ Fluorescent fabric (yellow, orange, or red) covering the required surface area.
✔ Reflective tape in specific placements (torso and/or sleeves, legs).
✔ Design considerations so visibility is maintained in all work positions.
✔ Durability – materials must withstand washing, abrasion, and general wear.
Why EN ISO 20471 Compliance Matters
- Legal Compliance – Employers have a duty under health and safety law to provide certified PPE.
- Accident Prevention – Hi-vis clothing reduces the risk of accidents caused by poor visibility.
- Employee Confidence – Proper protective gear helps staff feel safe and valued.
- Professional Standards – Wearing compliant workwear enhances your company’s reputation for safety and responsibility.
Choosing the Right Hi-Vis for Your Team
When selecting high-visibility clothing:
- Assess the risks and environment (day/night, speed of vehicles, weather).
- Ensure garments carry the EN ISO 20471 certification mark.
- Opt for quality embroidery or print for branding without reducing visibility.
- Always maintain and replace hi-vis clothing when faded, damaged, or worn.
Final Thoughts
EN ISO 20471 isn’t just a standard, it’s a safeguard for your team. By ensuring your workwear meets these requirements, you’re not only complying with the law but also putting safety first.
At ColorCoded, we supply a wide range of EN ISO 20471-compliant hi-vis workwear, complete with your business logo through embroidery or print. Our goal is to keep your workforce visible, safe, and professional, day and night.
👉 Explore our hi-vis range today and give your team the visibility they deserve.
Hi-Vis →https://www.colorcoded.co.uk/shop/catalogue/category/sectors/hi-viz_112/
“According to HSE guidance on high visibility clothing employers must ensure their team’s PPE meets EN ISO 20471 requirements.”
