Collection: High Visibility Safety Vests

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Frequently Asked Questions

Know your gear, protect what matters

Shipping Policy

Shipping policy

All orders are subject to manufacturer back orders. If a product is not immediately available, a member of our customer service team will reach out to you to discuss your options, including a full and immediate refund.

 


DOMESTIC ORDERS

 

Free Fed Ex Ground Shipping on all orders over $250 being delivered within the contiguous (conterminous) United States. All orders under $250 being delivered within the contiguous (conterminous) United States will be charged a flat rate of $25 for Fed Ex Ground Shipping.

 

A flat rate of $150 will appear at checkout for select products being delivered to AK/HI. If this flat rate is not an option, you will have to contact us for a custom shipping quote. 


Most orders will enter the Fed Ex system in Detroit, Michigan area in 1 to 2 business days after the order is placed.

 

Fed Ex Ground transit times: "1–5 business days within the contiguous U.S., 3–7 business days to and from Alaska and Hawaii. Check transit times based on your zip code: http://www.fedex.com/grd/maps/ShowMapEntry.do

 


INTERNATIONAL ORDERSA

A flat rate of $150 will appear at checkout for select products being delivered to US Territories, Armed Forces, Canada, Mexico, and various Caribbean nations. If this flat rate is not an option, you will have to contact us for a custom shipping quote.

 

Novarlo is not responsible for duties and fees that may be applied by your country. It is your responsibility to understand what the charges will be as we do not accept returns for any reason.

 

**FOR EXPEDITED, OVERNIGHT, OR SERVICE PERSONALIZED IN ANY WAY, PLEASE CALL (833) 408-0500 AND WE WILL BE HAPPY TO ACCOMMODATE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES TO THE BEST OF OUR ABILITIES!**

 

CONTACT INFO
Address
31435 Stephenson Hwy
Madison Heights, MI 48071
Phone
Main: (833) 408-0500
Email: sales@novarlo.com

Refund Policy

Refund policy

 

Returns

 

We’ll always do our best to put it right if, occasionally, a product may not be quite right or is surplus to requirements.

 

We accept refunds on non-branded, non-customized items. Other products, unfortunately, usually not. If you want to know if we can make an exception, please call us at (833) 408-0500 BEFORE placing your order. (Re-stocking fees are likely to apply.)

 

Thank you for your understanding.

 

CONTACT INFO
Address
31435 Stephenson Hwy
Madison Heights, MI 48071
Phone
Main: (833) 408-0500
Email sales@novarlo.com

What does ANSI/ISEA 107 define in terms of high-visibility gear?

ANSI/ISEA 107 is the American standard that defines the performance requirements for high-visibility safety apparel and accessories. Developed by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA), it ensures that garments provide visibility for workers in hazardous environments, particularly those near moving vehicles or equipment.

 

The standard specifies requirements for fluorescent background materials, retroreflective striping, and garment design to ensure visibility during both daylight and nighttime conditions. It classifies garments into three performance classes (Class 1, 2, and 3) based on the amount of visible material and the level of risk in the work environment.

 

Additionally, ANSI/ISEA 107 includes different types of high-visibility apparel:

 

Type O (Off-road): For workers not exposed to traffic, such as warehouse or mining employees.

 

Type R (Roadway): For those working near traffic or public roadways (construction, utility work).

 

Type P (Public Safety): For emergency responders and law enforcement.

 

In summary, ANSI/ISEA 107 sets the standard for design and performance of high-visibility gear, ensuring workers are easily seen in low-light and high-risk environments. Compliance with this standard enhances safety, reduces the risk of accidents, and helps meet OSHA visibility requirements for certain job roles.

What does CSA Z96 cover in high-visibility safety apparel?

CSA Z96 is the Canadian standard that specifies the design, performance, and use of high-visibility safety apparel (HVSA). Developed by the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), it ensures that workers exposed to vehicle traffic, mobile equipment, or low-visibility environments can be easily seen, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.

 

The standard outlines requirements for fluorescent background materials, retroreflective striping, and garment placement and coverage. It classifies HVSA into three visibility classes (Class 1, 2, and 3) based on the level of risk and amount of visible material required:

 

Class 1: For low-risk environments (e.g., parking lot attendants).

 

Class 2: For moderate-risk areas (e.g., construction workers).

 

Class 3: For high-risk situations requiring the most visibility (e.g., highway workers or emergency responders).

 

CSA Z96 also allows for enhanced features like flame resistance or tear-away designs for specific job needs. It can be combined with CSA Z96.1 for additional guidance on selecting and using high-visibility apparel effectively.

 

In summary, CSA Z96 ensures high-visibility clothing meets safety and visibility requirements tailored to Canadian work environments, helping employers choose the right gear for different job roles and risk levels. Compliance with this standard is essential for maintaining visibility and safety in high-hazard zones.

What is the difference between Class 1, 2 & 3 high-vis clothing?

The classification of Class 1, 2, and 3 high-visibility clothing refers to the amount of fluorescent and retroreflective material on a garment and the level of visibility protection it provides. These classes are defined in both ANSI/ISEA 107 (U.S.) and CSA Z96 (Canada) to help employers choose the right high-vis gear based on work environment risk levels.

 

Class 1 is the lowest visibility level, suitable for low-risk environments where traffic does not exceed 40 km/h (25 mph), such as parking attendants or warehouse workers. These garments typically include safety vests or harnesses with a minimum amount of reflective material. Class 2 provides greater visibility and is intended for moderate-risk jobs where workers are near roadways or moving equipment, such as construction, survey crews, or utility workers.

 

Class 2 garments have more fluorescent background and wider reflective striping for daytime and nighttime visibility.

 

Class 3 offers the highest level of visibility, designed for high-risk situations like highway work, emergency response, or heavy traffic zones. These garments cover more of the body (e.g., long-sleeve jackets or full coveralls) and include the maximum required amount of reflective and fluorescent material.

 

In summary, the difference between Class 1, 2, and 3 high-vis clothing comes down to how much visibility is needed for the task. The higher the class, the more coverage and reflectivity the garment offers—ensuring workers are seen and safe in increasingly hazardous environments.

How do I know which visibility category I need for my worksite?

To determine which high-visibility category (Class 1, 2, or 3) you need for your worksite, you must evaluate the level of risk associated with the job environment—particularly the speed and volume of nearby traffic or equipment, the complexity of work tasks, and visibility conditions like lighting or weather. These classes are outlined in standards such as ANSI/ISEA 107 and CSA Z96.

 

Class 1 is suitable for low-risk areas where traffic is minimal and moving slowly (under 40 km/h or 25 mph), such as parking attendants, warehouse staff, or delivery personnel in controlled areas.

 

Class 2 is required in moderate-risk environments, like roadwork near slower-moving traffic, construction zones, or urban areas. It provides more coverage and is appropriate when workers are exposed to higher-speed vehicles or complex backgrounds.

 

Class 3 is necessary for high-risk, high-traffic conditions, such as highway maintenance, emergency response, or night work. It offers full-body visibility with sleeves, pants, or coveralls and is designed for maximum daytime and nighttime detectability.

 

To choose the correct category, perform a hazard assessment of your worksite and consider factors such as proximity to traffic, task complexity, lighting conditions, and environmental distractions. In summary, the right visibility category is the one that ensures workers are clearly seen by others, especially drivers or machine operators, reducing the risk of collisions or injuries.

What is the difference between M4 and M5 Ariat pants?

The difference between M4 and M5 Ariat pants comes down to fit, rise, and leg style, giving wearers options based on personal preference and comfort. Both styles are part of Ariat’s workwear and western wear collections, designed for durability, function, and long-lasting comfort in demanding environments.

 

M4 pants feature a low-rise waist with a relaxed fit through the hip and thigh, and a boot-cut leg opening. This style offers a more generous cut, making them ideal for those who prefer a roomier feel or need added mobility for bending, lifting, or riding.

 

M5 pants have a slightly higher rise and a slimmer fit through the thigh and seat, also with a boot-cut leg. They offer a more modern, streamlined appearance while still providing flexibility and toughness for active work or riding tasks.

 

In short, choose M4 for a looser, more relaxed fit, and M5 if you prefer a closer-fitting, more tailored look. Both deliver Ariat’s signature durability, but the best choice depends on your comfort needs and style preference.

What are the pros and cons of 1/2 masks vs PAPR respirators?

1/2 masks (half-face respirators) and PAPRs (Powered Air-Purifying Respirators) both offer protection against airborne hazards, but they differ significantly in design, protection level, and comfort. Choosing between them depends on the work environment, duration of use, and specific hazards.

 

1/2 masks are compact, lightweight, and cost-effective. They rely on the wearer’s lung power to draw air through filters or cartridges and are suitable for tasks involving dust, fumes, and light chemical exposure. However, they can become uncomfortable during long shifts, especially in hot or physically demanding environments, and require a tight facial seal—which may be compromised by facial hair or eyewear.

 

PAPRs, on the other hand, use a battery-powered blower to actively deliver filtered air to the wearer’s facepiece or hood. This makes them much more comfortable for extended wear, reduces breathing resistance, and offers higher levels of protection (APF of 25 to 1,000 depending on the system). The downside is that PAPRs are bulkier, more expensive, and require battery maintenance and regular cleaning.

 

In summary, 1/2 masks are ideal for short-term use in low-to-moderate risk environments, while PAPRs are better suited for high-risk or long-duration tasks where comfort, airflow, and maximum protection are critical. The right choice depends on your job’s specific hazards and working conditions.

What is the difference between Type I and Type II hard hats?

The primary difference between Type I and Type II hard hats lies in the direction of impact protection they are designed to provide. This classification is defined by both ANSI Z89.1 (U.S.) and CSA Z94.1 (Canada) standards, which help employers choose appropriate head protection based on workplace hazards.

 

Type I hard hats are designed to protect against impacts to the top of the head only—such as falling tools or debris. They are commonly used in traditional construction and industrial settings where the main risk comes from overhead hazards.

 

Type II hard hats, on the other hand, offer protection against both top and lateral (side) impacts. They have additional padding and structural features to absorb blows from the sides and front or back of the helmet. This makes them suitable for work environments where the risk of being struck from various angles is higher, such as confined spaces, utility work, or areas with moving equipment.

 

In summary, Type I hard hats protect from overhead impact, while Type II hard hats offer all-around protection, including side impacts. Choosing the right type ensures that workers have the appropriate level of safety based on the hazards present in their specific work environment.

What glove cut level do I need for my industry?

The cut level you need depends on the type of work and the sharp hazards present in your industry. Glove cut resistance is rated using the ANSI/ISEA 105 standard, which assigns levels from A1 to A9, with A1 offering the lowest protection and A9 the highest. These levels reflect the amount of force (in grams) required to cut through the glove material with a sharp blade.

 

For light-duty tasks like general assembly, maintenance, or warehouse work, a glove rated A1 to A3 is typically sufficient. These gloves provide basic protection against light cuts from tools, packaging, or materials handling. Industries like automotive or light manufacturing often fall into this category.

 

If you work with sharp materials such as glass, sheet metal, or wire—common in construction, HVAC, electrical, or metal fabrication—you’ll likely need a glove rated A4 to A6. For extreme hazards, such as heavy-duty metal stamping, high-risk cut exposure, or working around blades, A7 to A9 gloves are recommended.

 

In summary, selecting the right glove cut level involves matching the hazard severity to the level of protection. Always conduct a hazard assessment of your tasks, and when in doubt, choose a higher cut level to ensure worker safety without compromising dexterity and comfort.

Which FR category should I choose for electrical work?

The appropriate Flame-Resistant (FR) category for electrical work depends on the level of arc flash hazard present in your environment. These categories, defined by NFPA 70E, are referred to as Arc Flash PPE Categories (CAT 1–4) and are based on the incident energy level—measured in calories per square centimeter (cal/cm²)—that workers could be exposed to during an arc flash event.

 

CAT 1 (minimum 4 cal/cm²): Basic protection for low-risk electrical tasks such as switching low-voltage panels or general maintenance.

 

CAT 2 (minimum 8 cal/cm²): Suitable for more common electrical tasks like panel work, circuit testing, and breaker switching.

 

CAT 3 (minimum 25 cal/cm²) and CAT 4 (minimum 40 cal/cm²): Designed for high-risk work involving larger electrical equipment or high-voltage systems, where incident energy is much higher.

 

To determine which category you need, your employer must perform an arc flash risk assessment that calculates the incident energy levels at different work zones. Based on that, you can select FR garments and gear with an arc rating (ATPV or EBT) equal to or greater than the expected exposure.

 

In summary, the FR category for electrical work should match the calculated arc flash risk in your environment. Always wear PPE that meets or exceeds the required CAT level, including FR clothing, face protection, gloves, and hearing protection as specified by NFPA 70E and your company’s safety protocols.

What is the best glove for chemical abrasion and puncture?

The best glove for protection against chemical exposure, abrasion, and puncture is one that’s specifically tested and rated for all three hazards. Since no single glove material protects against all risks equally, the ideal choice often combines chemical-resistant materials (like nitrile, neoprene, or butyl rubber) with mechanical strength features such as reinforced palms or multi-layer construction.

 

For chemical resistance, look for gloves that comply with EN ISO 374 or ASTM standards and are labeled for the specific chemicals you're handling. Nitrile gloves offer good resistance to oils, fuels, and many solvents, while butyl rubber is better for ketones and esters. Manufacturers often provide chemical compatibility charts to help guide selection.

 

For abrasion and puncture resistance, refer to the ANSI/ISEA 105 and EN 388 ratings. Choose gloves with an abrasion resistance level of 4–6 and puncture resistance level of 3 or higher. Some chemical-resistant gloves now include cut- and puncture-resistant liners to offer multi-hazard protection without sacrificing flexibility.

 

In summary, the best glove is one that matches the specific chemicals and mechanical hazards of your task. Always perform a hazard assessment and select gloves that are certified for chemical resistance and rated for mechanical durability to ensure safe, long-lasting protection.