3 Standard Classes for Safety: ANSI standards for Hi Vis Jackets

The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) sets the standards when it comes to the risk level and the increased requirement of visibility for workers. Class 1, 2, 3 and E separate the types of jobs that might require a certain amount of safety. See the ANSI safety standards below.

• ANSI Class 1 – Low hazard situations would be in the first class. This would mean that there is room between a worker and moving traffic. This would include parking attendants, shopping cart associates, warehouse workers and maintenance workers that do not pass into the street. These situations call for lightly reflective gear, including Class 1 safety vests, safety t-shirts and low reflective gloves.

• ANSI Class 2 – This class involves situations where vehicles near the worker are not moving faster than 25MPH. This would mean that higher visibility would be necessary especially during times of poor visibility. For example, during inclement weather, a driver’s vision might be hindered due to the conditions. Railway workers, crossing guards, airport ground crew and utility workers are all required to wear Class 2 safety gear. Other professions would include public safety workers, roadway construction and toll gate personnel. Safety outfits for these workers would include Class 2 reflective t-shirts and long-sleeve t-shirts. These shirts have reflective tape that provides more heightened visibility than the Class 1 occupations.

• ANSI Class 3 – A Class 3 situation is where vehicles would be traveling at 50MPH+. These highly hazardous situations require the most visibility to protect from injury. Requirements are that the workers need to be completely visible through a full range of motion, including arms and legs to be outfitted in reflective material. Professions include highway construction workers, construction flaggers, utility workers, survey crews and emergency responders. Types of clothing would include hi vis jackets with a Class 3 rating that have the utmost visibility. 

• ANSI Class E – A Class E situation combines the protective gear worn in Class 2 and Class 3. It might also require fire-resistance, reflective hats, etc. These garments should be worn together to protect at a Class E level. Occupations would mainly include nighttime highway construction workers and safety personnel such as first responders. Requirement would include hi vis jackets, hi vis pants and reflective tape on all garments.

ANSI has guidelines that will give examples of how to be outfitted for all of these occupations for optimum safety. Consider these standards for your profession to prevent accidents and injury.