High-Visibility Workwear: Everything You Need to Know About Reflective Safety Clothing

High-visibility workwear is a vital part of personal protective equipment for professionals working in environments where visibility is critical for safety. Whether you’re on construction sites, roadworks, logistics centers, or industrial facilities, choosing the right high-visibility workwear ensures that you remain visible and safe, even in low-light or hazardous conditions.

This comprehensive guide explains what high-visibility workwear is, the standards it must meet, and how to choose the best products. We also introduce top brands available at Optimum BHP, including Portwest, Procera, Delta Plus, Projob, Snickers Workwear, and budget-friendly options from Procera, Urgent, and Artmas. Discover also collections from CXS Canis, and Ardon — trusted names in reflective safety gear.


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What Is High-Visibility Workwear and Why Is It Essential?

High-visibility workwear is designed to make workers highly visible through the use of fluorescent colors and reflective materials. This specialized clothing enhances safety by making the wearer easily seen in daylight, low-light, and night-time conditions.

Typically, high-visibility garments feature:

• Bright fluorescent colors like neon yellow, orange, or red to stand out during the day,

• Reflective strips that reflect light from headlights, machinery, and streetlights,

• Strategic placement of reflective elements for maximum visibility from all angles.

Using high-visibility clothing significantly reduces the risk of accidents in high-traffic or dangerous work zones, making it a legal requirement in many industries and countries.

Differences in High-Visibility Workwear and Key Standards

When choosing high-visibility workwear, understanding the standards and classes is crucial for compliance and safety.

• EN ISO 20471 is the international standard governing high-visibility clothing, specifying three classes based on the minimum area of fluorescent and reflective materials:

  • Class 1: For low-risk environments with minimal traffic or hazards.

  • Class 2: Suitable for medium-risk settings, offering increased visibility.

  • Class 3: Highest protection level, mandatory in high-risk areas such as highways and industrial zones.

• Additional standards may apply depending on the environment, such as:

  • EN 343: Protection against rain and weather.

  • EN 1149: Anti-static properties.

Selecting the appropriate class of high-visibility workwear ensures that you meet workplace safety requirements and remain protected.

High-Visibility Workwear by Portwest: Trusted Innovation and Quality

Portwest is a leading global brand offering a broad range of high-visibility workwear that combines durability, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.

Their products include lightweight vests, durable jackets, trousers, and accessories, all certified to meet or exceed EN ISO 20471 standards. Portwest garments are designed to enhance worker mobility and comfort, with breathable fabrics and ergonomic fits, ideal for a wide range of industries.

Affordable High-Visibility Workwear from Procera, Urgent, and Artmas

Brands like Procera, Urgent, and Artmas provide cost-effective options for high-visibility workwear without compromising on safety or quality.

• Procera offers reliable vests and jackets suitable for construction and logistics.

• Urgent’s reflective clothing balances functionality and affordability, perfect for everyday tasks.

• Artmas focuses on durability and practical design in their reflective apparel.

These brands are excellent choices for businesses looking to outfit teams with safe, compliant gear on a budget.

Premium High-Visibility Clothing from Delta Plus, Projob, and Snickers Workwear

For professionals requiring the highest level of protection and comfort, brands like Delta Plus, Projob, and Snickers Workwear stand out.

These companies invest in:

• Advanced fabric technologies for breathability and durability,

• Ergonomic tailoring for enhanced movement and comfort,

• Additional features such as waterproof membranes and thermal insulation.

Their high-visibility workwear is often the go-to choice in demanding environments where safety cannot be compromised.

Reflective Workwear Accessories to Complete Your Safety Set

In addition to jackets and trousers, it’s important to include high-visibility accessories in your PPE system. Items like reflective hats, gloves, safety vests, and overalls provide added protection, especially in low-light environments or layered winter conditions. Brands like Portwest, Artmas, and Snickers Workwear offer certified accessories that complement full reflective outfits. Explore our full range to ensure visibility from head to toe — in all conditions.

Reflective Safety Clothing by CXS, Canis, and Ardon

The brands CXS, Canis, and Ardon offer versatile and reliable high-visibility workwear solutions.

• CXS emphasizes durability and functionality for a range of industrial tasks.

• Canis focuses on robust materials and compliance with safety standards.

• Ardon integrates ergonomic design with innovative features for enhanced safety.

Each of these brands provides high-quality reflective clothing options suitable for various working conditions.

Understanding the Importance of EN ISO 20471 Certification

To ensure legal compliance and optimal worker protection, all high-visibility workwear should meet the EN ISO 20471 standard. This certification regulates the design, placement of reflective tape, and minimum surface area of high-visibility material. Only garments that pass rigorous testing for daytime visibility, night-time reflectivity, and durability can bear this certification. At Optimum BHP, we offer an extensive collection of certified high-visibility clothing, including EN ISO 20471 Class 2 and Class 3 jackets, vests, and trousers from brands like Portwest, Delta Plus, Snickers Workwear, and CXS Canis. Choosing certified garments ensures you meet safety inspection requirements while protecting your team in high-risk zones.

To learn more about visibility standards and how they apply to different industries, check our High-Visibility Workwear FAQ and read expert articles on the Optimum BHP Blog (EN).

Seasonal Considerations: High-Visibility Workwear for All Weather

Don’t forget to adjust your reflective workwear to the season and climate conditions. For summer, choose lightweight, breathable high-visibility T-shirts, polo shirts, or mesh vests that allow airflow while maintaining visibility. In autumn and winter, switch to insulated, waterproof reflective jackets and trousers that meet both EN ISO 20471 and EN 343 standards for weather protection. Many brands at Optimum BHP, such as Procera, Artmas, and Projob, offer reflective garments tailored for harsh weather — including softshell jackets, bomber jackets, and thermal trousers with strategically placed reflective tape. You’ll also find insulated high-visibility gloves, hats, and accessories to complete your winter PPE.

Explore our seasonal ranges in the high-visibility clothing section of the store and stay safe year-round with expert support from Optimum BHP.

How to Choose the Right High-Visibility Workwear for Your Job

When selecting high-visibility workwear, consider the following:

• Assess Your Environment: Understand the risks and visibility requirements to choose the correct class of clothing.

• Material and Comfort: Opt for breathable, lightweight materials for hot climates or insulated options for colder settings.

• Fit and Flexibility: Clothing should fit well without restricting movement. Adjustable features improve comfort.

• Additional Features: Waterproofing, durability, and extra safety elements (like pockets or reinforcements) enhance functionality.

The right combination ensures compliance with safety regulations and maximizes worker wellbeing.

Where to Buy Certified High-Visibility Workwear?

At Optimum BHP, you’ll find a vast selection of certified high-visibility workwear from trusted brands, meeting all relevant standards. Our expert team is ready to help you find the perfect garments for your industry.

Conclusion: Invest in High-Visibility Workwear to Stay Safe and Seen

Choosing the right high-visibility workwear is not just about compliance — it’s about protecting lives. Invest in high-quality, certified reflective clothing from Portwest, Procera, Delta Plus, Projob, Snickers Workwear, and other top brands to ensure maximum visibility and safety.

For more information and practical advice, visit our High-Visibility Workwear FAQ and explore detailed guides on the Optimum BHP Blog.

Stay visible. Stay safe. Choose Optimum BHP.