Hi-Vis Classes Explained: Class 1, 2 & 3 – Which Do You Need?

What Are Hi-Vis Classes?

High visibility clothing in the UK and EU is regulated under EN ISO 20471, the international standard for high-visibility warning clothing. This standard defines three classes of hi-vis garments based on the minimum area of fluorescent background material and retroreflective tape they must carry.

Choosing the wrong class isn't just a compliance issue — it's a safety risk. Here's what each class means and which workers need it.

Hi-Vis Class 1 – Low-Risk Environments

Minimum background material: 0.14 m²
Minimum retroreflective tape: 0.10 m²

Class 1 is the lowest level of visibility protection. It's suitable for environments where workers are not exposed to fast-moving traffic or heavy machinery — for example, warehouse operatives working away from vehicle routes, or delivery drivers making short stops in low-speed areas.

Typical Class 1 garments include lightweight vests and tabards.

Who needs it: Warehouse staff (low-risk zones), parking attendants, event stewards in pedestrian areas.

Hi-Vis Class 2 – Medium-Risk Environments

Minimum background material: 0.50 m²
Minimum retroreflective tape: 0.13 m²

Class 2 is the most commonly required level for outdoor workers in the UK. It provides significantly more visibility than Class 1 and is mandatory on most construction sites, road works, and anywhere workers are near moving vehicles.

Class 2 garments include vests, jackets, trousers, and sweatshirts — all carrying more fluorescent material and reflective banding than Class 1.

Who needs it: Construction workers, road workers, utility engineers, delivery drivers, site supervisors, warehouse operatives near vehicle routes.

Browse our hi-vis jackets and coats, hi-vis sweatshirts and hoodies, and hi-vis trousers and shorts — all available in Class 2 certified options.

Hi-Vis Class 3 – High-Risk Environments

Minimum background material: 0.80 m²
Minimum retroreflective tape: 0.20 m²

Class 3 is the highest level of protection and is required where workers face the greatest risk from fast-moving traffic or low-visibility conditions. This includes motorway maintenance, emergency services, and night-time road works.

Class 3 garments must cover the torso and limbs, which is why full jackets, coveralls, and trousers are the typical format. A Class 2 jacket combined with Class 2 trousers can achieve a combined Class 3 rating — this is sometimes referred to as a Class 3 ensemble.

Who needs it: Highways maintenance workers, emergency responders, railway workers, anyone working on or near motorways.

See our full range of Class 3 hi-vis jackets and hi-vis waterproofs for high-risk outdoor environments.

What Does EN ISO 20471 Mean on a Label?

When you see EN ISO 20471:2013+A1:2016 on a garment label, it means the item has been independently tested and certified to the current international standard. Always look for this marking when purchasing hi-vis for professional use — it's a legal requirement under UK PPE regulations for workwear used as personal protective equipment.

The label will also show the class number (1, 2, or 3) and the size range the certification applies to. Be aware that some garments lose their certification in smaller sizes due to insufficient material area — always check the label.

Which Hi-Vis Class Do I Need?

A quick reference:

• Class 1 – Low-speed, low-risk environments. Pedestrian areas, indoor warehouses away from vehicles.
• Class 2 – Most outdoor worksites, construction, road works, logistics. The standard requirement for most UK trades.
• Class 3 – Motorways, high-speed roads, railways, emergency services. Maximum visibility required.

If you're unsure, always default to the higher class. The cost difference between Class 2 and Class 3 is minimal compared to the safety benefit.

Hi-Vis Colour: Does It Matter?

EN ISO 20471 permits three fluorescent colours: yellow-green, orange-red, and red. Yellow-green is by far the most common in the UK and offers the highest daytime visibility. Orange is often used in utilities and rail sectors. Some employers specify a colour as part of their site rules — always check before ordering.

Shop Hi-Vis Clothing at ProAttire

At ProAttire, all our hi-vis garments are EN ISO 20471 certified and available with custom embroidery or DTF printing — so your team stays safe and looks professional on site.

• Hi-Vis Jackets & Coats
• Hi-Vis Waterproofs
• Hi-Vis Sweatshirts & Hoodies
• Hi-Vis Trousers & Shorts
• Hi-Vis T-Shirts & Polos

Need help choosing the right class for your team? Get in touch — we're happy to advise.