Class 3 Safety Vests

Class 3 safety vests are a type of high-visibility clothing designed to enhance the visibility of workers in hazardous environments, particularly in low-light conditions or areas with heavy traffic. These vests are typically used in professions such as construction, road work, utility maintenance, and emergency response. Class 3 vests provide the highest level of visibility and are often worn by workers who need the utmost protection. ANSI mandates a minimum of 310 square inches of reflective tape, a minimum of 1240 square inches of background material, must be identifiable as a person at least 1280 ft distance at a minimum and must have sleeves.

Key features of Class 3 safety vests include:

  • High-Visibility Material: Class 3 vests are made from fluorescent materials in colors like fluorescent orange or fluorescent yellow-green, which are highly visible during the day.

  • Reflective Striping: They have reflective strips, usually made from retroreflective material, that are strategically placed on the front and back of the vest to ensure visibility in low-light conditions.

  • Long-Sleeved Design: Class 3 vests often have long sleeves to provide additional coverage and visibility for the wearer.

  • ANSI/ISEA Standards: These vests are designed to meet the standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA). The ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 standard specifies the requirements for high-visibility safety apparel, and Class 3 vests must meet the highest visibility and performance criteria.

  • Suitable for Extreme Conditions: Class 3 vests are intended for use in areas where workers are exposed to the highest levels of risk, such as highway construction zones and emergency response situations.

It's important to choose the appropriate class of safety vest based on the specific work environment and the level of visibility required to ensure the safety of workers. Class 3 vests provide the highest level of visibility, making them suitable for the most hazardous situations.