High visibility safety apparel

1.1 This Standard specifies requirements for occupational apparel that is

a) capable of signalling the user’s presence visually; and
b) intended to provide the user with conspicuity in hazardous situations under any light conditions
and under illumination by vehicle headlights.

1.2 Performance requirements are included for colour, retroreflection, and minimum areas, as well as for

the configuration of the materials. Performance requirements are also provided for the physical

properties of background materials used in the construction of high-visibility safety apparel (referred to

as “HVSA” in this Standard). Test methods are provided in the Standard to ensure that a minimum level

of visibility is maintained when garments are subjected to ongoing care procedures.

1.3 This Standard provides performance requirements for conspicuous materials to be used in HVSA and

specifies classes of garments, minimum areas, and placement of these materials.

Note: Conspicuity is enhanced by high contrast between clothing and the work environment against which it is seen.

1.4 This Standard specifies minimum amounts of retroreflective materials, together with colour and

requirements for placement of materials, for apparel used to enhance the visibility and safety of

workers. Categories of high-visibility garments are identified and appropriate markings for apparel are

recommended.

1.5 The values given in SI units are the units of record for the purposes of this Standard. Where values are

given in parentheses, they are for information and comparison only.

1.6 In this Standard, “shall” is used to express a requirement, i.e., a provision that the user is obliged to

satisfy in order to comply with the standard; “should” is used to express a recommendation or that

which is advised but not required; and “may” is used to express an option or that which is permissible

within the limits of the Standard.

Notes accompanying clauses do not include requirements or alternative requirements; the purpose of a

note accompanying a clause is to separate from the text explanatory or informative material.