Navigating the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Standard: High-Visibility Safety Apparel

(Sources: High Visibility Safety Apparel (HVSA): What You Need to Know- ANSI Blog) 

In industries where visibility is critical for worker safety, the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard plays a vital role. This standard, set forth by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA), provides comprehensive guidelines for high-visibility safety apparel (HVSA). Understanding these guidelines ensures that workers have garments that provide adequate protection in various environments. Here, we break down the essential aspects of the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard.

What is the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Standard?

The use of HVSA is mandated by state law and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in many workplace situations in or around traffic. The ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard specifies performance requirements for HVSA to enhance the visibility of workers. These garments are designed for occupations where there is a need to be seen by drivers of moving vehicles or equipment, under any light conditions, by day, or under illumination by headlights in the dark. The standard outlines the requirements for materials, design, and construction of high-visibility garments.

Key Updates in the 2020 Revision

The ANSI/ISEA 107 standard is typically reviewed and revised in a 5-yr cycle.  The 2020 update to the ANSI/ISEA 107 standard included several important changes that reflect advancements in technology and the need for more tailored protective apparel. Some of the notable details of the standard include:

1. Expanded Garment Types: The new standard categorizes garments into various types and classes based on their intended use and the environment in which they will be worn:
   • Type ) (Off-road): For workers not exposed to roadway traffic.  This has reduced requirements for reflective and high-vis fluorescent background fabric.
   • Type R (Roadway): For workers exposed to roadway traffic and moving equipment.
   • Type P (Public Safety): For public safety workers, including law enforcement and EMS.  This type allows for more flexibility in design to accommodate the needs of public safety workers.
2. Material Performance Requirements: The standard sets specific performance criteria for the materials used in HVSA, including minimum requirements for retroreflective and fluorescent materials. This ensures the garments provide adequate visibility during the day and at night. This includes assessments for durability, visibility under various conditions, and the ability to withstand environmental factors such as rain and heat.
3. Design Requirements: The design requirements focus on the placement and amount of high-visibility materials on the garment to provide 360-degree visibility. This includes specifications for the configuration and width of the reflective bands and the balance of fluorescent material.
4. Testing and Certification: The functional high-visibility materials must undergo rigorous 3rd party testing to be certified under the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard. Additionally, each garment must be certified to verify that the design meets the requirements. Certificates shall be made available upon request, so it is important to know that those purchasing and specifying garments for their workers check to make sure the garments are certified.

Choosing the Right HVSA

When selecting high-visibility safety apparel, it’s crucial to consider the specific work environment and the potential hazards present. The ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard helps in identifying the appropriate type and class of garment needed for different scenarios: 

• Class 1: Lowest body coverage and good visibility. Suitable for environments with minimal risk, with slower traffic.
• Class 2: Moderate body coverage and enhanced visibility. For higher-risk environments with faster-moving traffic, providing greater visibility than Class 1 garments.
• Class 3: Superior body coverage and visibility. Designed for the highest-risk situations, these garments offer the highest level of visibility and are required for workers in close proximity to high-speed traffic.

Why Compliance Matters

Compliance with the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard is not just a regulatory requirement but a critical aspect of workplace safety. Properly certified HVSA significantly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries by ensuring that workers are visible under all conditions. Employers must stay updated on these standards to provide the best possible protection for their employees. 

The ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard represents the latest in safety garment requirements, ensuring that workers in high-risk environments are visible and protected. By understanding these standards and selecting the appropriate high-visibility apparel, we can enhance safety and reduce the likelihood of workplace accidents.