Contrast is accomplished through the use of fluorescent materials that enhance daytime, dusk and dawn conspicuity.

Retroreflective materials, which direct light back to the source (i.e. lights on a vehicle or equipment) help workers stand out in low light and at night. These materials can be either glass bead or prismatic styles, both with differing performance characteristics.

The third objective of a hi-vis garment—to outline the human form—is accomplished through strategic placement of reflective trim. Putting trim on the arms and legs, for example, helps drivers pick up appendage movement and makes a person look different from a cone or a barrel.

ANSI 107 is the standard governing the design and use of hi-vis apparel. To be labeled “ANSI-certified,” all the elements of a high-visibility safety garment—fluorescent fabric, reflective materials and garment design—must meet the guidelines of the ANSI 107 standard.

ANSI/ISEA 107-1999 was the first U.S. national standard to address worker visibility in all light conditions. The standard also defined performance characteristics, specified minimum amounts of background and retroreflective material, and set basic design guidelines. This U.S. standard joined the already-in-place European (EN 471) and Canadian (CSA Z96) standards. (Though very similar, the national standards do have key differences. For example, European standards do not allow mesh polyester; Canadian standards require an “X” on the back of all safety vests.)

Like all ANSI/ISEA standards, ANSI 107 is reviewed and recertified every five years. The current American National Standard for High-Visibility Safety Apparel and Headwear, ANSI/ISEA 107-2004, is a revision of the original 1999 standard.

Changes to the 1999 standard included:

• Expanded definitions and clearer descriptions among garment classes (e.g., vests can no longer be certified Class 3, which clarifies the standard's intent of appendage visibility);

• Additional garment design examples;

• Recognition of headwear as high-visibility apparel;

• Previously a recommendation only, third-party or self-certification of the garment design is now a requirement;

• Class levels are more heavily based on worker tasks and environment, not solely on motorist speed.

The ANSI 107-2004 standard organizes garments into classes based on total area of hi-vis background material, total area of retroreflective tape or combined performance material, and reflective tape placement and spacing. They include:

• Class 1 – Typically vests, but also includes sashes;

• Class 2 – Vests, shirts and jackets;

• Class 3 – Vests with sleeves, shirts and jackets;

• Class E – Pants and shorts;

• Class Headwear – Hats and other headwear.

Following adoption of the original ANSI/ISEA hi-vis standard, designs and use of high-visibility apparel have become more regulatory-driven. Leading this change are several organizations and documents.

For instance, in 2001, The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health began recommending ANSI/ISEA 107 for use on all highway construction projects.

Then, in 2003, the U.S. Department of Transportation's Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices recognized the standard, which meant many working on federally funded highway projects had to comply with the ANSI/ISEA standard.

This, in turn, has led nearly all 50 state departments of transportation to begin voluntary compliance, which has since trickled down to municipalities and independent contractors.

The standard is also recognized by OSHA under the General Duty Clause.

With the increase in workers wearing high-visibility apparel has come a wider range of clothing and headwear options—from color, to fabric, closure options, pockets, tape designs and special features.

Until recently, almost all hi-vis apparel was polyester, because it was the only material that could hold its color in the face of moisture, sun and numerous washings. Today, new technology means workers can choose apparel made from flame-retardant materials or poly-cotton blends. Also, new wicking treatments added to fabric helps keep them dry.

Workers are also no longer tied to wearing just vests on the jobsite. Companies now manufacture ANSI-certified t-shirts, sweatshirts and polo shirts made of knit mesh with wicking treatment. Workers find these garments keep them cooler and more comfortable, while still keeping them compliant.

High-visibility headwear has also become much more popular with workers, who now have lots of options like ball caps, mesh visors, and Ranger-style hats that keep the sun off while adding visibility.

These comfortable, wide-ranging apparel options, along with current governmental standards and, of course, the desire to reduce work zone injuries and fatalities, leave employers and their workers with few reasons not to adopt hi-vis apparel as one aspect of their overall safety effort.

It's clearly time to get visible, be noticed and stay safe.