Different Classes of Traffic Safety Vests

Whether you’re a construction worker, a security guard, a traffic safety officer, or you work in any other industry that requires you to be outside amidst traffic, your safety and security are paramount. Working in areas where traffic is a concern, there is an increased chance of being hit by a car. For that reason, it is vital to wear clothing that makes you visible.

Traffic safety officer vests are one of the most effective ways to make yourself seen when you’re working in a location where vehicles are present. Made of bright colors and featuring reflective strips, these vests enable you to be seen when visibility is poor, such as in rain or at nighttime. In fact, traffic safety vests are so important that they are a legal requirement in many areas. However, there are many different types of vests available. What’s the difference between these vests? Here’s a description of the different types of safety vests:

ANSI Class 1

Class 1 vests provide a minimal amount of vibrant colors and reflective materials. They are usually orange, neon yellow, or lime green. This class of safety vest is typically used by those who work in an occupation where low traffic is present. The worker who wears these vests has to have ample distance from approaching traffic and vehicle speeds should not exceed 25 mph.

ANSI Class 2

These vests provide more coverage by way of providing more brightly colored material and more reflective striping. These vests are worn by those professionals who work in areas where high traffic, complex backgrounds and dangerous weather conditions are a concern. Law enforcement officials and construction workers are among the professionals who wear ANSI Class 2 Safety Vests.

ANSI Class 3

These vests offer the highest level of visibility. Those who work on federal road right-of-ways and are exposed to traffic and/or construction are required to wear these ANSI Class 3 traffic safety vests, as they can make them visible at a distance of at least 1,280 feet.