What Are Hi Vis? A Tradesperson’s Guide to Staying Safe and Seen

Whether you're working on a construction site, managing traffic, or doing roadside repairs, chances are you’ve worn hi vis clothing at some point. But what exactly does hi vis mean? Why is it such a vital part of modern workwear? And how do you choose the right hi vis gear for your job?

At Tradeworx, we specialise in workwear, safety gear, and tool storage for tradespeople across the UK and Ireland. In this blog, we’ll break down what hi vis is, how it works, and which gear is worth investing in.

👉 Explore our full collection of hi vis workwear here

 

What Does Hi Vis Mean?

Hi vis—short for high visibility—refers to clothing designed to make the wearer more visible, especially in low-light or hazardous conditions. It typically features:

  • Fluorescent fabrics (such as yellow or orange) that reflect ultraviolet light in daylight

  • Retroreflective tape that bounces light back toward its source, making you more visible at night when hit by headlights or torches

Hi vis is a legal requirement for many workplaces, including construction, traffic control, rail work, logistics, and emergency services.

 

Why Is Hi Vis So Important?

Hi vis clothing significantly reduces the risk of accidents by ensuring workers can be seen at all times. In busy environments—like a building site or roadside—you want drivers, machine operators, and co-workers to spot you instantly.

It’s not just about visibility; it’s about protecting lives.

That’s why our Snickers High-Vis Class 2 Stretch Trousers with Holster Pockets are so popular. They combine maximum comfort and movement with certified Class 2 visibility, ideal for site work where mobility and safety are both top priorities.

 

Types of Hi Vis Clothing

Hi vis comes in a range of forms to suit different job roles and environments. The most common include:

  • Hi Vis Jackets: Perfect for outdoor or winter work, providing insulation and weather resistance

  • Hi Vis Trousers: Often worn with holster pockets for tool storage, suitable for general site use

  • Hi Vis Sweatshirts and Hoodies: Great for layering in cooler weather

  • Hi Vis Vests: Lightweight and ideal for indoor or warehouse settings

For example, the Portwest T400 PW3 Hi Vis Winter Jacket – Yellow is perfect for colder months. It features a soft, quilted lining, Class 3 visibility, and weatherproof protection—keeping you warm, dry, and seen throughout the working day.

 

What Colours Are Considered Hi Vis?

The most commonly accepted hi vis colours under UK and EU regulations are:

  • Fluorescent Yellow – Most widely used and versatile

  • Fluorescent Orange – Required for rail and road workers

  • Red and Blue – Occasionally used in specific industries but not always compliant for PPE

The Blåkläder Hi Vis Sweatshirt – Orange offers a bold and compliant option for rail or road settings, while still looking sharp and professional.

 

How to Choose the Right Hi Vis Workwear

Here are a few tips for selecting the right hi vis clothing:

  1. Know your class – Class 1, 2, and 3 garments offer increasing levels of visibility. Class 3 provides the highest level.

  2. Layer wisely – Combine jackets, trousers, and tops for full coverage.

  3. Prioritise comfort – Look for stretch fabrics, breathable panels, and moisture-wicking properties.

  4. Match to conditions – Waterproofs for rain, insulated jackets for cold, and lighter gear for summer.

👉 Browse our range of hi vis clothing to find the right gear for your site

 

Final Word

Hi vis isn’t just a uniform—it’s a vital layer of protection that could save your life. From lightweight vests to thermal winter jackets and flexible work trousers, there’s hi vis gear for every job and season.

At Tradeworx, we stock premium hi vis workwear from trusted brands like Snickers, Portwest, and Blåkläder, all with free UK & Ireland delivery over £50.

Stay safe, stay seen, and stay equipped with Tradeworx.

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