A Guide to High Vis Jackets for Outdoor Workers
If you've spent as much time working outdoors as we have, you know that visibility isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a must-have.
Hi-vis jackets are a lifeline for many of us who spend our days working in potentially hazardous environments. Whether you’re a construction worker, a gardener, or someone maintaining our roads, these jackets can be the key to staying safe and seen.
But you might wonder, how can these seemingly simple garments make such a big difference? Well, we're here to shed some light (no pun intended) on that!
Here, we've put together a list of 5 benefits to show you just how important they truly are to the world of outdoor work.
What Is Hi Vis Clothing?
Before we begin, let's just have a recap of what these garments are.
Hi-vis clothing, short for high-visibility clothing, is designed to distinguish the wearer easily from any background.
They typically feature bright fluorescent colours, such as yellow, orange, or green, and reflective strips that enhance visibility in both daylight and nighttime conditions.
Nowadays, this safety workwear comes in various types and styles to match different needs and work environments:
- Hi Vis Vests: Lightweight and breathable, these safety vests are the ideal choice for warm weather, freedom of movement, and layering over other clothing.
- Hi Vis Jackets: Provide additional warmth and protection from the elements, available in various styles such as bomber jackets and parkas.
- Hi Vis Coveralls: Offer full-body coverage, combining visibility with protection against dirt and grime.
- Hi Vis Trousers: Designed for lower body visibility and protection, often worn in tandem with other hi vis clothing.
- Hi Vis Footwear: Made with bright colours and reflective strips to enhance visibility in hazardous settings when your feet are at high risk of injury.
In addition to the main garments, hi-vis accessories such as gloves, hats, and armbands are also available to provide increased visibility and protection in specific areas of the body.
Types of Outdoor Work That Require Hi Vis Workwear
Certain job roles and industries mandate the use of hi vis clothing, and for good reason.
Here are some key sectors where hi-vis is crucial:
- Construction Industries: Think busy building sites with heavy machinery and constant movement where maximum safety and extra protection are a priority. Reflective clothing goes hand-in-hand with this.
- Road Maintenance: High-speed traffic and low lighting conditions make hi-vis an absolute must for road workers.
- Agriculture: Fields can be vast, and visibility can be limited, especially during early morning or late evening hours, so fluorescent materials can make all the difference.
- Gardening and Landscaping: High vis clothing is the perfect choice for ensuring safety in areas with moving vehicles and equipment.
- Labouring: Any job involving heavy lifting, moving objects, or working in crowded areas benefits from hi-vis gear.
- Emergency Services: Police, paramedics, and fire services need a high level of protection for they often work in dangerous environments. However, these industries tend to have their own specialised gear.
If you're unsure if your industry requires it, check with your employer or take a look at the Health & Safety Executive website for more guidance.
The 5 Key Benefits of Hi-Vis Jackets
We know firsthand that when you’re out working outdoors, it's always safety first. Hi-vis clothing is a critical part of staying safe, but what does that really mean?
Let's break it down and show you why these jackets are more than just bright colours.
1. Enhanced Visibility in Low-Light Conditions
First and foremost, high-visibility jackets do a fantastic job of boosting your visibility, especially in low light environments. The blend of fluorescent and reflective materials ensures you’re seen from all angles and from a distance.
This helps prevent accidents by making sure that workers are easily seen by drivers, machinery operators, and other workers. This is particularly important in high-traffic areas, construction sites, and road work where the risk of accidents is higher.
Visibility can be affected by weather conditions like fog, rain, or snow, making bright and reflective clothing even more essential. During adverse weather conditions, the reflective stripes on the jackets catch the light from headlights and other sources, ensuring that the wearer remains visible.
All-in-all, enhanced visibility equals worker safety, and that’s what really counts.
2. Compliance with Health & Safety Regulations
In many industries, wearing hi vis clothing isn't just a recommendation; it's a requirement.
It is often part of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) regulations, which are in place to keep workers safe on the job.
Health and safety in the workplace is important for several reasons:
- Protects employee well-being: Keeping the workplace safe cuts down on accidents and injuries, which can be really tough on people and their families. Beyond just the physical pain, these accidents can lead to long-term health problems, emotional stress, and financial worries from lost income.
- Boosts employee morale and productivity: When people feel safe at work, they're more likely to be engaged and focused, which means better performance and efficiency. This is great for the business too, as it reduces downtime and boosts output.
- Prevents financial and legal consequences: Ignoring health and safety can get a company into big trouble. There could be hefty fines and legal issues if safety rules are broken. Plus, workplace accidents can hurt a company's reputation, making it harder to hire and keep good people, and even losing clients who want to work with companies that prioritise safety.
Making sure health and safety standards are high isn't just the right thing to do; it's a smart business move. Alongside the vital safety benefits, it helps create a positive work environment and keeps the operations running smoothly.
3. Demonstrates Your Commitment to Professionalism
Wearing hi-vis jackets isn’t just about meeting safety standards—it also shows that you take your job seriously.
A team dressed in branded hi vis gear looks professional and organised, which can boost your company's image. Clients and the public will see that you prioritise safety and professionalism.
For outdoor workers, this makes a lot of sense. Since you're often seen by members of the public, your appearance can leave a lasting impression. You never know who your next client might be; a passerby impressed by your team's professionalism and commitment to safety could easily become a future customer.
Each interaction and visual impression counts, making hi-vis gear not just a safety measure, but a key component in showcasing your company’s values and attracting potential business.
4. Weather Protection
Some hi vis workwear offers more than just visibility—they protect against the elements.
Working outdoors means you're often exposed to all kinds of weather, from torrential rain to biting cold. It's crucial that your outer layer, the high vis jacket, not only keeps you visible but also shields you from these conditions.
For different weather conditions:
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Rainy days: Hi-vis waterproof jackets with sealed seams and hoods to keep you dry even during heavy downpours.
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Cold days: Quilted hi-vis jackets with insulated linings to provide much-needed warmth as temperatures drop.
- Warm weather: Lightweight work jackets with breathable fabrics to help you stay cool and comfortable in hot weather. You could also go for a hi vis vest.
Plus, remember to look for handy features like detachable hoods, adjustable cuffs, and multiple pockets for convenience and practicality.
Staying warm and dry while working outdoors is essential for maintaining productivity and comfort. This dual functionality of visibility and weather protection makes hi vis jackets an indispensable part of any outdoor worker's gear.
5. Confidence and Peace of Mind
Have you ever found yourself feeling anxious or uneasy when working in low-light conditions? It's a common occurrence among outdoor workers, and it's understandable. When you can't see your surroundings clearly, it’s natural to feel worried about potential hazards.
Knowing you’re visible and safe when working outdoors brings a lot of peace of mind.
When you feel safe, you can focus better on your tasks, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. Additionally, a safe work environment fosters a positive atmosphere, encourages teamwork, and boosts overall morale, making it easier for everyone to perform at their best.
So, whether mandated by regulations or simply making a smart choice for safety, when you put on your high vis jacket, you're taking the necessary steps to keep yourself and others safe. That confidence can go a long way in helping you excel at your job.
Choosing the Right Hi-Vis Jacket
As with any piece of safety gear, choosing the right high vis jacket is crucial. You'll want to consider factors such as the type and level of visibility it provides, weather conditions you typically work in, and any additional features that may be useful.
Here are some tips for selecting the perfect reflective jacket:
- Assess your working conditions: Think about where and when you usually work outdoors. Are you often exposed to heavy rain or foggy conditions? Do you need thermal insulation during colder months? Understanding your working environment will help you determine which type of high-visibility workwear is best suited for your needs.
- Check visibility standards: Make sure the garment meets relevant safety standards for visibility. This can vary depending on the industry and country, so be sure to research and select a jacket that complies with the necessary standards that you need. Again, check with HSE if you're unsure.
- Consider additional features: Hi vis jackets come with various features such as waterproofing, insulation, multiple pockets, detachable hoods, and more. Think about what would be most useful for your job and select a jacket that offers those features.
- Invest in quality: Don't skimp on safety gear—invest in a jacket made from high-quality materials that will last you a long time. Look for reputable brands like Fort, known for producing durable and reliable safety gear.
Here are some suggestions to get you started:
- Fort Hi-Vis Waterproof Bomber Jacket: Great for rainy days.
- Fort Air Reflex Jacket: Ideal for visibility and breathability.
- Fort Workwear Hi-Vis Quilted Jacket: Perfect for colder conditions.
By taking these factors and product recommendations into account, you can ensure you choose the right work jacket that will provide maximum visibility and protection while working outdoors.
Summary
Safety should always be a top priority on the job site, and we hope this guide has helped satisfy any curiosity about why hi vis jackets are so important.
They aren't just about looking bright and flashy. They play a critical role in ensuring safety, compliance, professionalism, and comfort for those who work in the great outdoors.
We have a fantastic range of hi vis clothing to stock up on, so be sure to check them out. Or don't hesitate to get in touch with our team if you'd like some help picking out the perfect work jacket, we're just a phone call or email away.
About the Author
With years of hands-on experience in warehousing, operations, and outdoor work, Robert Coates has been there, done that, and knows the importance of workwear that feels as good as it performs. Through his recommendations and insights, he is passionate about helping others find clothing that they genuinely enjoy wearing. He has a knack for finding the perfect balance between comfort and functionality, so if you’re looking to get the job done efficiently, yet comfortably, let Robert guide you to the best in the business.
