High-Visibility Clothing: What’s the Best Option for Night Work?

High-Visibility Clothing: What’s the Best Option for Night Work?

Introduction

Working at night presents unique challenges, with low visibility being a major safety concern. High-visibility (hi-vis) clothing plays a crucial role in protecting workers by ensuring they remain seen by motorists, machinery operators, and colleagues. Choosing the right hi-vis gear can significantly reduce the risk of workplace accidents and comply with OSHA and ANSI standards.

This guide explores the best high-visibility clothing for night work, covering essential features, industry requirements, and product recommendations.

OSHA and ANSI Requirements for High-Visibility Clothing

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) refers to the ANSI/ISEA 107 standard for high-visibility safety apparel. According to ANSI, hi-vis gear is categorized into three performance classes based on visibility and work conditions:

Class 1

This category is designed for low-risk environments where workers are exposed to minimal traffic or slow-moving vehicles. Warehouse employees, parking lot attendants, and delivery workers in controlled areas often use Class 1 hi-vis apparel. These garments usually feature a smaller amount of reflective material, making them suitable for less hazardous situations.

Class 2

Workers in moderate-risk environments, such as construction sites, airport ground crews, and roadwork zones, require Class 2 high-visibility clothing. These garments offer increased reflectivity and brighter colors, ensuring visibility at greater distances.

Class 3

Designed for high-risk environments, Class 3 high-visibility clothing provides maximum visibility. This class is required for workers operating in high-speed traffic zones, nighttime roadwork, emergency response, and tow truck operations.

Employers must ensure their workers wear the appropriate class of high-visibility clothing based on job-specific hazards.

Key Features to Look for in High-Visibility Clothing for Night Work

When selecting high-visibility gear for nighttime conditions, consider the following factors:

  • Reflective Strips: Clothing should feature ANSI-certified retroreflective tape that enhances visibility in low-light conditions.

  • Fluorescent Fabric: Bright colors like neon yellow, orange, or lime green improve daytime and nighttime visibility.

  • Weather Resistance: Water-resistant or insulated options are ideal for outdoor night work in cold or rainy conditions.

  • Comfort and Breathability: Lightweight, moisture-wicking materials help prevent overheating and discomfort.

  • Durability: Choose gear made from tear-resistant and abrasion-resistant fabrics to withstand rugged work environments.

Best High-Visibility Clothing Options for Night Work

1. High-Visibility Safety Vests

Best for: Warehouse workers, delivery drivers, event staff

A Class 2 or Class 3 hi-vis vest provides lightweight visibility over regular clothing. Many options include adjustable straps, reflective tape, and breathable mesh fabric for comfort.

✅ Recommended Product: ANSI-Certified High-Visibility Vests

2. High-Visibility Jackets and Coats

Best for: Construction workers, highway maintenance crews, emergency responders

For cold-weather or outdoor night work, an ANSI Class 3 reflective jacket with insulated lining and waterproof materials ensures both warmth and visibility.

✅ Recommended Product: High-Visibility Jackets

3. High-Visibility T-Shirts and Long-Sleeves

Best for: Utility workers, airport ground crews, landscapers

For warm climates, hi-vis t-shirts or long-sleeve reflective shirts provide breathability while maintaining compliance with safety standards.

✅ Recommended Product: Hi-Vis Safety Shirts

4. High-Visibility Pants and Overalls

Best for: Railroad workers, road crews, construction teams

ANSI-certified reflective pants and overalls improve lower-body visibility and are essential for full-body reflective compliance in hazardous areas.

✅ Recommended Product: High-Visibility Pants

5. High-Visibility Rain Gear

Best for: Utility workers, emergency responders, outdoor laborers in wet conditions

For rainy or foggy conditions, waterproof hi-vis rain gear with sealed seams and reflective stripes enhances safety while keeping workers dry.

✅ Recommended Product: High-Visibility Rain Gear

How to Maintain High-Visibility Clothing

Proper maintenance ensures that hi-vis gear remains effective and compliant with safety standards.

  • Regular Washing: Follow manufacturer guidelines to prevent fading and maintain reflectivity.

  • Inspect for Wear and Tear: Replace hi-vis gear if reflective strips become worn out or damaged.

  • Proper Storage: Store clothing in a clean, dry place to prevent fabric degradation.

Conclusion

Choosing the right high-visibility clothing is crucial for worker safety, especially during night shifts or low-light conditions. Ensuring compliance with OSHA and ANSI standards reduces risks and enhances protection on the job.

✅ Need OSHA-approved high-visibility clothing? Browse our ANSI-certified hi-vis gear to stay safe and visible at night!