STAY SEEN, STAY SAFE: TOP 5 TIPS FOR CHOOSING HIVIS WORKWEAR THAT HOLDS UP

You don’t grab just any neon vest and call it a day. If you’re serious about safety on the job site, you need head-to-toe high-visibility workwear that actually does its job—keeping you visible, comfortable, and protected from the stuff that can kill you.

That’s not drama. That’s fact. Construction had 1,075 fatalities in 2023—more than any other industry. And about 1 in 5 of those were “struck-by” deaths.

That means someone didn’t get seen in time. Let’s fix that.

KNOW THE RULES OR PAY THE PRICE

OSHA requires employers to provide a workplace free from known hazards. That includes proper PPE—and yes, that absolutely includes hivis PPE when you're on a construction site surrounded by heavy equipment, blind spots, and low lighting.

And if you missed it, the OSHA dropped a new rule in December 2024 that says all workers—big, small, male, female—get properly fitting PPE. That means no more stuffing someone into a vest that fits like a trash bag or a toddler tee.

STEP 1: SIZE UP THE JOB SITE

Before you throw gear in a cart, stop and assess the actual hazards. That’s how you avoid buying hivis workwear that either doesn’t help or just gets tossed in the truck bed.

• Lighting conditions: Can workers be seen in the early morning or after sunset?
• Equipment movement: Are backhoes, trucks or forklifts flying around?
• Obstructions: Piles of lumber, scaffolding, rebar—can they block visibility?
• Weather: Is it going to be 90 and sunny or 20 and snowing sideways?

If your site has any of the above (and let’s be honest, it does), then your high-visibility PPE needs to be tailored for those conditions.

STEP 2: MAKE SURE THE GEAR DOESN’T SUCK

Let’s be real: If it doesn’t fit, it’s not getting worn. If it’s bulky, restrictive, or feels like it was made for a mannequin, workers will leave it in the truck or cut it into rags.

Look for gear that:

• Is lightweight and breathable for hot days
• Has stretch panels where it matters (knees, elbows, shoulders)
• Offers moisture-wicking or UV protection
• Is insulated or layered for cold-weather jobs
• Comes in actual women’s sizes and gear that fits all body types—not just “men’s small”

STEP 3: FOLLOW THE STANDARD, NOT JUST THE COLOR

Yes, high-visibility lime is the most common color—but don’t assume it’s the only legal option.

ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 sets the standard for hivis workwear in the U.S. Here’s the quick-and-dirty version:

• Type O: Off-road workers (not exposed to traffic)
• Type R: Roadway workers (most construction crews)
• Type P: Public safety (firefighters, police, EMTs)

ANSI classes are based on how much high-vis material and reflective tape the gear has:

• Class 1: Bare minimum. Rarely enough.
• Class 2: Mid-level. Most vests fall here.
• Class 3: Maximum visibility. Sleeves + full coverage.

Want to hit Class 3 safety levels without a bulky jacket? Pair Class E pants (like hivis overalls) with a Class 2 shirt or vest. Boom—instant Class 3 coverage.

Also: Some sites under CSA (Canadian regs) require an X-pattern on the back so others can see if you're facing away. Check local or state requirements to know what your jobsite requires.

STEP 4: BUY SMART, NOT CHEAP

Sure, you can grab five $10 vests off the clearance rack—but if they rip, shrink, or peel after a week, what did you really save?

Instead, invest in high-visibility workwear that’s built to last:

• Reinforced elbows, knees, and cuffs
• Bonded reflective tape (won’t peel off after a few washes)
• Warranty or repair support from the manufacturer

If your team is wearing this stuff every day, it’s got to take a beating. RefrigiWear high-visibility insulated workwear can hold up to the grind.

STEP 5: WEATHERPROOF LIKE A PRO

Don’t throw a mesh vest over a hoodie and call it “winter safety.” Cold-weather job sites need hivis workwear built for freezing temps and low visibility. Look for:

• Insulated hivis jackets that meet ANSI or CSA standards
• Layered rain gear with removable liners
• Waterproof seams and zippers so the rain stays out and the warmth stays in

You’ll stay dry, stay warm, and more importantly—stay visible when it’s pouring, snowing or dark as hell.

BOTTOM LINE: STAY SEEN, STAY SAFE

Construction is hard work. Don’t make it harder (or more dangerous) by cutting corners on your hivis PPE.

Whether you’re buying for the whole crew or just grabbing your own gear, choose RefrigiWear high-visibility workwear that fits right, holds up and keeps you visible in all conditions.

Because the backhoe won’t see you if your vest is balled up in the truck. And that’s a gamble no job is worth.