Hi-Vis Classes 1, 2 and 3: Which Do You Need?
Hi-vis Class 1, 2 and 3 are the three levels of visibility set by EN ISO 20471. Class 1 is the minimum, Class 2 is the intermediate level and Class 3 is the highest, and the right one for you depends on traffic speed, lighting and the rules of the site you're working on.
Not all hi-vis is created equal, so choosing the correct class is both a legal and a practical matter. Here's how the classes compare and how to pick.
Hi-vis classes compared
Each class sets a minimum area of fluorescent background material and retroreflective tape. More material means the wearer can be seen from further away and from more angles.
| Class | Visibility level | Typical garments | Typical settings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Minimum | Trousers on their own, some tops | Areas separated from traffic or with very low vehicle speeds |
| Class 2 | Intermediate | Vests, waistcoats, some tops and trousers | Warehouses, distribution centres, car parks, delivery work, UK rail (in orange) |
| Class 3 | Highest | Sleeved jackets, coveralls, two-piece suits | Motorways and high-speed roads, night work, poor weather |
When is Class 1 or Class 2 enough?
Class 1 garments contain the minimum amount of fluorescent and reflective material. They're suitable for low-risk situations, for example working in areas fully separated from traffic, or where vehicle speeds are very low. Hi-vis trousers on their own often fall into this class.
Class 2 garments, such as the classic hi-vis vest, offer an intermediate level of visibility. They're widely used in warehouses, distribution centres, car parks and delivery work, where vehicles operate at moderate speeds.
Class 2 is also the minimum on UK rail, where RIS-3279-TOM requires orange hi-vis meeting at least Class 2. Many rail contractors set their own requirements on top, so check before you buy.
When do you need Class 3?
Class 3 provides the highest level of protection. A Class 3 garment must cover the torso and have either sleeves with retroreflective bands or full-length trouser legs with bands, which is why sleeved hi-vis jackets and coveralls are the typical choice.
For motorways and high-speed roads, Class 3 is generally expected and is often written into client or site rules. It's also strongly recommended for night work, poor weather and anywhere drivers need to spot workers from a distance. Check your client's or principal contractor's site rules rather than relying on assumptions.
Can you combine hi-vis classes?
Yes, sometimes. Wearing a Class 2 vest with Class 1 trousers may achieve Class 3 as an ensemble, but only if the manufacturer has tested and certified that combination. The ensemble rating will be stated on the labels, so don't assume two items add up.
A few other points catch buyers out:
- Hi-vis jackets and vests are designed to be worn fastened. Worn open, much of the material is hidden.
- Faded fabric or damaged tape can drop a garment below its class, so replace it when worn.
- Logos must not reduce the fluorescent or reflective area below the class minimum, so keep branding off the tape. Our guide to embroidered vs printed workwear covers branding options.
When selecting hi-vis, always start with your workplace risk assessment. Consider vehicle speeds, lighting conditions, weather and the distance at which workers need to be seen. For the basics of how hi-vis works, read our hi-vis clothing guide.
Quick answers
Is Class 3 hi-vis required on the railway?
Not as a blanket rule. UK rail standard RIS-3279-TOM requires orange hi-vis meeting at least Class 2, though individual contractors may ask for more, so check their site rules.
What class is a hi-vis vest?
Most standard hi-vis vests are Class 2, but some are Class 1. The class is shown on the garment label alongside the EN ISO 20471 marking.
Do hi-vis trousers and a vest make Class 3?
They can, but only if the manufacturer has certified that combination as a Class 3 ensemble. Check the labels, as two separately rated items don't automatically add up.
Need help choosing? Browse our hi-vis workwear range or ask our team for advice on compliant hi-vis for your industry, with embroidery and printing available to add your branding.
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