According to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the classification of safety vests is determined by the quantity of reflective material and the type of background fabric, with the vests falling into Classes 1, 2, or 3. Here’s how they differ:
1. Class 3 (High Visibility): This level represents the pinnacle of expertise, showcasing the most advanced background techniques, including the use of fluorescent and reflective tape. The third class vests are distinguished by the presence of stripes along the torso and over the shoulders, which serve to ensure 360° visibility. These devices are mandatory in high-risk environments where workers are in proximity to fast-moving traffic or heavy machinery with velocities typically exceeding 50 miles per hour. Examples of such professions include freeway construction flaggers, highway survey crews, and railroad workers.
2. Class 2 (Enhanced Visibility): Class 2 vests are characterized by the presence of stripes around the torso and vertical stripes along the shoulder, with a slightly reduced amount of material compared to Class 3 vests. These devices are well-suited for environments characterized by moderate traffic or machinery speeds (20–50 mph), where workers require enhanced visibility but do not necessitate the full scope of Class 3 protection. Examples of such occupations include parking lot attendants, airport workers, and general road construction crews.
3. Class 1 (Limited Visibility): The lowest class of this system contains minimal reflective material. Its primary function does not involve traffic control; rather, it is utilized by workers in environments characterized by minimal traffic volume or optimal visibility (e.g., within warehouse facilities or for delivery drivers accessing their vehicles). Class 1 vests are merely adequate in terms of meeting the minimum standards.
In practice, companies frequently utilize Class 2 or 3 vests for field crews. A custom construction company may equip all highway teams with Class 3 vests (in addition to hard hats and signage) and provide Class 2 vests to site visitors.
It is imperative to acknowledge that, irrespective of class, vests are obligated to adhere to the stipulated ANSI layout guidelines. For instance, even a Class 2 vest is required to have a minimum of 2 inches of reflective tape on the front and back. CustomTok's Class 2 and Class 3 vests are both equipped with 2-inch silver reflective tape on neon polyester (see our inventory).
It is imperative to acknowledge that, irrespective of class, vests are obligated to adhere to the stipulated ANSI layout guidelines. For instance, the minimum requirements for a Class 2 vest include the presence of at least 2 inches of reflective tape on the front and back of the vest. CustomTok's Class 2 and Class 3 vests are both equipped with 2-inch silver reflective tape on neon polyester (see our inventory).
For a concise overview, refer to the ANSI/ISEA 107 summary, which delineates the following classification system: Class 3 signifies "high visibility for high-speed work zones," Class 2 denotes "enhanced visibility for lower-speed zones," and Class 1 designates "visibility when no traffic is present," though it should be noted that Class 1 is seldom utilized in outdoor settings. When placing an order for custom safety vests, it is imperative to specify the ANSI class required, as this will determine the appropriate style to be provided.
