SAFETY VEST
First of all, let’s discuss the basics of safety vest and what the class means, in the most straight forward way possible. Once you understand what the class means, you’ll know what safety vest you need to choose for your job.
Class 1 safety vest are used in low traffic areas, for example parking lot attendants and off road maintenance workers. They are non-ANSI approved and the colors most used are Orange, Yellow and Lime Green, however different colors can be used as well.
Class II Safety Vest are ANSI approved and are used in higher traffic areas where speeds are 25 mph or less. Traffic Police and crossing guards usually use these vest. The only colors approved for this level is Orange, Yellow and lime green.
Class III Safety Vest are also ANSI approved and are usually used by construction workers in Highways and railway workers. These vests can be used in areas where speeds are above 50 mph.
Okay now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get down to details…..
Design and features of the safety vests vary in color, material, velcro, zippers and pockets. Choosing the right vest features all depends on your work environment and needs.
For example, if you are working in warm weather and you have options of choosing solid or mesh materials; you would obviously wear mesh as it makes you feel cooler... and solid material in cold weather.
Now if you need to carry many small tools, you would choose a safety vest with pockets, as it can make your job easier if you have convenient access to the tools you need.
Velcro and Zippers options both make taking off vest quick and efficient.