Worker safety is and should be a top priority in every industry. It not only benefits the well-being of employees but also enhances productivity and overall work efficiency. From supplying the right equipment and providing guidelines to offering proper training and wearing the correct garments, both employees and employers have a responsibility to cultivate a safety-centric culture that reduces potential risks and hazards at the workplace.
Workwear is clothing made with a purpose. Every part of it has a distinct role, from the fabric to smaller details such as zips and pockets. It is designed for functionality and offers protection far beyond everyday clothes, featuring flame-resistant and highly reflective components.
In many work environments, such as roadwork, construction, and emergency services, to name a few, the need for heightened visibility is essential. To ensure that workers stand safely against the backdrop of machinery or in conditions of reduced visibility, workwear hi vis shirts are crucial. They can prevent accidents and improve overall awareness of a person’s presence in busy industrial settings.
These hi-vis garments are specially designed for enhanced visibility when working in low-light conditions or at night. Typically, they’re made from fluorescent materials in striking neon colours like green, yellow, or orange and are used in industrial work environments. There are many different options available on the market, so here are a few tips to help you narrow down your selection.
How to Choose the Right Hi Vis Shirts
Long-Sleeve or Short-Sleeve?
Long-sleeve options are ideal for additional arm protection or working in colder environments. Short-sleeved shirts are preferable for indoor tasks and warmer climates.
Material
The fabric of the hi vis work shirts determines durability, comfort, and functionality. To make the most of it, choose materials suited to your work environment. Polyester, for instance, is one of the most commonly used materials for hi-vis clothing. It’s lightweight and comes with quick-drying properties, making it ideal for wet conditions.
Cotton, on the other hand, suits dry and hot areas well because of its breathable nature. It is soft and comfortable, making it great for long working hours. Blended fabrics are popular options, too, as they combine the benefits of polyester and cotton to maximise performance.
Reflective or Non-Reflective?
Hi-vis garments often include fluorescent materials and reflective tape. Reflective shirts come with strips or panels that enhance visibility in poor lighting conditions, while non-reflective shirts feature bright, high-visibility colours that are effective against different backgrounds.
Colours
The most commonly used colours for hi vis workwear are neon yellow and fluorescent orange, but they can be found in many other shades, including lime, white, and more. The main factor to consider when choosing the colour of your workwear hi vis shirts is the background material against which the workers will be seen. So, if the job is taking place in a green area, then orange is the right choice, as it stands out more against green, while in an urban setting, yellow is more noticeable.
Compliance with Safety Standards
Hi vis clothing must comply with certain standards to be certified. Before making a purchase, check if the shirts you’re considering comply with Australian safety standards. For hi vis workwear, the Australian Standard AS/NZS 4602.1.2011 is the crucial guideline. It pertains to the garment specifications for hi vis clothing, including the design criteria for garments worn by employees exposed to potential hazards posed by various factors, from moving vehicles to machinery and other risky scenarios.
Comfort and Fit
A proper fit is crucial for the wearer’s safety and comfort. Workers need to be safe and able to move freely at the same time, but that doesn’t mean wearing clothes that are too loose. To be safe, always buy from trusted suppliers that include a size chart so you can pick the right size.
Maintenance
To keep hi-vis garments in good condition for longer, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and inspect them regularly to ensure ongoing safety. How often you’ll need to replace them depends on the frequency of use and the material quality. If you notice that the bright colour fades or the reflective strips lose their effectiveness, it’s time to replace your workwear.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to safety workwear, hi vis shirts are essential in safety-critical industries, from airports and highways to construction sites, etc. The employer is obligated by law to protect the employees who work in poor light conditions and low visibility. When taking care of workplace safety, the employer invests in more than just construction gear or any other gear related to the worker’s safety. It’s an investment in productivity, as employees who feel safe can focus more on the job they’re carrying out.
