Hi-Vis

What do the symbols on the garments really signify?

Just as in many other areas, Hi-Vis clothing has contributed to the development of a number of good EN standards. This is, of course, to be able to classify visibility and to help users make an informed decision about purchasing the right type of garment. At the side of each garment there are EN symbols with the number 1-3 next to the symbol. The top number indicates the degree of visibility the garment has. Maximum visibility is 3, and this is determined by the size of the florescent surface area of the garment. The bottom figure shows the reflectiveness of the garment's reflectors. The maximum figure is 2. All our garments have been optimised based on working situation and materials. All garments feature Scotchlite® reflective material for maximum visibility. Our clothing meets the highest possible demands the market has to make concerning visibility and reflectivity.

Classifications

EN471
HIGH VISIBILITY

Properties for high visibility both in daytime and in darkness.
Classified per 1, 2, 3 (where 3 gives the best visibility)
The minimum surface area in m²: Class 3 Class 2 Class 1
Fluorescent material 0.80 0.50 0.14
Reflective material 0.20 0.13 0.10

EN343
RAIN PROOF

Classification of water permeability
Class 1, 2, 3 (where 3 indicates the best protection against rain/water)
Classification of steam permeability
Class 1, 2, 3 (where 3 indicates the best result against steam)

EN533
ANTI FLAME
(EN ISO 14116)

Index 1: the material does not spread Flames, but holes can develop
Index 2: the material does not spread Flames and holes do not develop.
Index 3: the material does not spread Flames and holes do not develop.
The afterburn time is minimal.

ENV50354
ELECTRICAL ARC
(EN 614 82-1-2)

For workers at risk of exposure to electric arcing. For example, when servicing equipment in areas that are not arcing-safe, such as switchgear stations, electrical stations, or for work close to live components.
The fabric must not begin to burn or melt.

EN531
ANTI HEAT
(EN ISO 11612)

Code

A

B1 3-6 sec

B2 7-12 sec

B3 13-20 sec

B4 21-30 sec

B5 > 31 sec

C1 8-30 sec

C2 31-90 sec

C3 91-150 sec

C4 > 151 sec

D1 100-200 g

D2 201 – 350 g

D3 > 350 g

E1 60 – 120 g

E2 121 – 200 g

E3 > 201 g

Explanation
The material meets the requirements for limited flamespreading:
- afterburn time < 2 s, afterglow time< 2 s
- no hole formations, Flames or fall-out

The material protects against contact heat before second degree burns develop.
Highest level is 5.

The material protects against radiant heat before second degree burns develop.
Highest level is 4.

The material protects against molten aluminium drops. Test to EN ISO 9185: 2007 previously EN373. Highest level is 3.

The material protects against molten iron. Test to EN ISO 9185:2007 previously EN373. Highest level is 3.