Understanding ANSI Class 1, 2 & 3 High-Visibility Apparel: Which Category Do You Need?
Ensuring worker safety through visibility is paramount, especially in environments with varying traffic conditions and lighting. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has established guidelines to help determine the appropriate level of high-visibility apparel based on specific work environments. These guidelines classify garments into three primary categories: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3. But how do you determine which class is suitable for your needs? Let's break it down.
What Are ANSI Classes?
ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 outlines the performance requirements for high-visibility safety apparel. These classes are designed to provide varying levels of visibility based on the risk associated with different work environments.
Class 1: Low-Risk Environments
- Ideal For: Workers in environments with minimal traffic or moving equipment, such as parking lots or warehouses.
- Minimum Requirements:
- Background Material: 217 square inches
- Reflective Material: 155 square inches
- Minimum Reflective Tape Width: 1 inch
- Example Applications: Parking attendants, warehouse workers, and delivery drivers in low-traffic areas.
Class 2: Moderate-Risk Environments
- Ideal For: Workers who are exposed to higher traffic speeds or work in conditions with reduced visibility, such as roadways with speeds between 25-50 mph.
- Minimum Requirements:
- Background Material: 775 square inches
- Reflective Material: 201 square inches
- Minimum Reflective Tape Width: 1.38 inches
- Example Applications: Construction workers, utility workers, and airport ground crew members.
Class 3: High-Risk Environments
- Ideal For: Workers who are exposed to high-speed traffic or complex backgrounds, requiring maximum visibility, such as highways with speeds over 50 mph.
- Minimum Requirements:
- Background Material: 1,240 square inches
- Reflective Material: 310 square inches
- Minimum Reflective Tape Width: 2 inches
- Example Applications: Highway construction workers, survey crews, and emergency responders.
How to Choose the Right Class for Your Work Environment
Selecting the appropriate class of high-visibility apparel depends on several factors, including traffic speed, visibility conditions, and the nature of the work being performed. Consider the following guidelines:
- Class 1: Choose this class if your work environment has minimal traffic and good visibility. Tampa Hi-Vis Band and Brace Vest
- Class 2: Opt for this class if you're working in areas with moderate traffic or reduced visibility conditions. High Visibility Mesh Safety Vest - D-Ring Pass Through, ANSI 2, 2-Tone
- Class 3: Select this class for high-risk environments with high-speed traffic or complex backgrounds. Blaklader - Hi-Vis Sleeved Vest - Type R, Class 3
Additional Considerations
- Class E Garments: These are supplemental items like pants or bibs that do not meet ANSI requirements when worn alone but, when paired with Class 2 or Class 3 tops, enhance overall visibility. Blaklader - Hi-Vis Shorts - Class E
- Type Designations: ANSI garments are also categorized by type:
- Type O (Off-Road): For off-road environments. High Visibility Breakaway Mesh Safety Vest - ANSI 3, DOT Striping, Vel
- Type R (Roadway): For roadway environments. Majestic Hi Vis Pullover Hoodie - Type R Class 3
- Type P (Public Safety): For public safety personnel. 2 Orange Hi-Vis Road Safety Vests- FR Yellow Reflective Trim
Where to Purchase ANSI-Compliant Hi-Vis Apparel
For a wide selection of ANSI-compliant high-visibility apparel, visit Novarlo.com. We offer a range of products suitable for various work environments and ensure compliance with safety standards.
Stay Visible, Stay Safe
Understanding the differences between ANSI Class 1, 2, and 3 high-visibility apparel is essential for ensuring worker safety in different environments. By selecting the appropriate class based on your specific work conditions, you can enhance visibility and reduce the risk of accidents. Always prioritize safety and ensure that your high-visibility apparel meets the necessary standards for your work environment.