High-visibility apparel is one of the simplest and most important forms of jobsite PPE. Whether crews are working in construction, utilities, warehouses, or roadside environments, being clearly visible helps reduce the risk of struck-by incidents involving vehicles and heavy equipment.
Workers exposed to traffic or similar visibility hazards may be required to wear high-visibility garments, but compliance mistakes are still common. In many cases, the problem is not that hi-vis gear is missing. It is that the wrong garment is being used, worn gear stays in service too long, or the apparel does not match the jobsite conditions.
Here are some of the most common hi-vis compliance mistakes and how to prevent them.
Using hi-vis apparel that does not meet ANSI requirements
One of the most common mistakes is using safety vests or shirts that do not meet ANSI/ISEA 107 requirements. This standard sets out key performance criteria for high-visibility apparel, including fluorescent background material, reflective striping, and garment design.
If a vest or shirt is not properly rated for the work environment, it may not provide the level of visibility needed on site.
For example, garments such as the ANSI Type R Class 2 High Visibility Mesh Safety Vest are designed to meet recognised visibility requirements with fluorescent fabric and reflective striping.
Choosing the wrong class of hi-vis garment
Not all hi-vis clothing provides the same level of visibility. ANSI/ISEA 107 categorises garments by type and performance class based on work environment, coverage, and the amount of reflective material.
In simple terms:
- Class 1 suits lower-risk environments
- Class 2 is used where workers have greater exposure to traffic or moving equipment
- Class 3 provides the highest visibility coverage for more complex or higher-risk environments
Many roadside, utility, and construction applications require Type R Class 2 or Class 3 garments so workers remain visible at longer distances and in more demanding conditions.
For example, the ANSI Type R Class 3 Heavy Duty Mesh Safety Vest provides greater reflective coverage for higher-risk roadside and utility work.
Keeping faded, damaged, or dirty hi-vis gear in service
Hi-vis apparel does not last forever. Over time, fluorescent colours can fade and reflective trim can become less effective due to UV exposure, repeated washing, abrasion, and dirt buildup.
Hi-vis garments should be replaced when they become:
- Faded or discoloured
- Torn or damaged
- Heavily soiled or stained
- No longer clearly visible at safe distances
Regular inspection is important because damaged or worn garments may no longer provide the visibility workers depend on in changing jobsite conditions.
Not matching hi-vis PPE to the work environment
Different jobsites call for different types of high-visibility apparel. A basic mesh vest may suit one environment, while another may require heavier-duty garments, weather protection, or flame-resistant visibility clothing.
For example:
- Roadway work zones may require Class 2 or Class 3 garments
- Utility line work may require FR hi-vis clothing for arc flash protection
- Construction sites may need more durable reflective vests or jackets
- Low-light conditions may call for garments with increased reflective coverage
For electrical and utility crews, FR hi-vis garments can help combine visibility and arc-rated protection. For example, the Vizable FR Hi-Vis Road Safety Vest is designed for applications where both matter.
Workers removing hi-vis gear in hot weather
During summer, workers sometimes remove safety vests because of heat and discomfort. That creates an immediate visibility risk and can also undermine site compliance.
One of the easiest ways to reduce that problem is to provide lightweight, breathable hi-vis apparel that workers are more likely to keep on throughout the shift.
For example, the Vohl Hi-Vis Safety Yellow Mesh Vest uses breathable mesh construction with reflective striping and ANSI Type R Class 2 compliance.
Choosing lighter, better-ventilated garments can help crews stay compliant without giving up comfort.
How to avoid hi-vis compliance problems
Preventing hi-vis issues starts with a practical site process, not just buying garments and handing them out.
A stronger hi-vis safety program should include:
- Providing garments that meet the required standard for the job
- Matching garment class and type to site hazards
- Inspecting gear regularly for fading, damage, and loss of visibility
- Replacing non-compliant or worn-out apparel promptly
- Training workers on when hi-vis PPE is required and why it matters
Hi-vis clothing may seem simple, but it plays a critical role in reducing struck-by risk on active jobsites.
Stay visible with Novarlo
At Novarlo, we supply high-visibility apparel designed for real jobsite conditions, from lightweight mesh vests to arc-rated FR hi-vis garments. Our range helps crews stay visible, protected, and better equipped for demanding work environments.
Explore Novarlo’s full high-visibility PPE collection
When visibility matters, the right gear makes a real difference.