High visibility clothing, also referred to as hi vis, hi viz or high vis clothing, whichever way you spell it is a range of clothing that ensures you are visible and therefore safe when carrying out a particular role. You might be required to wear high vis for work, you may work in a sector where you only wear it for certain tasks or you might wear it during your down time.
However high visibility clothing fits into your life, it is an important type of personal protective equipment, or PPE, that has been designed to maintain your safety.
With so many uses, let’s take a look at how hi vis protects you in different environments during the different seasons. Understanding the benefits of different types of hi vis will both ensure you are visible in potentially risky situations and keep you comfortable at the same time.
Summer Hi Vis Clothing
Summer in the UK can range from blistering sunny days to monsoonal wet and wild days so there is no clear cut recipe for what PPE to wear for these conditions. However, if we assume temperatures are generally more moderate and days are longer and brighter adopting clothing such as hi vis t-shirs, hi vis waistcoats and hi vis hats with wide brims will ensure you remain visible.
There are particular challenges that come with the more temperate weather in summer such as excessive glare and sun exposure. Choosing hi vis workwear that has a 50+ ultraviolet protection factor, or UPF, will help to block out the stronger rays whilst you go about your day. We would also recommend layering up your PPE. Don’t forget to pack a hi vis rain jacket to pop on over your safety vest to protect you from unexpected inclement weather. Top tips for your summer hi vis wardrobe:
1. layering is essential
2. choose breathable clothing to keep you cool
3. pack your hi vis sunhat
