April Showers Require Workers to Wear Hi-Vis Safety Rain Gear

While April showers bring May flowers, they also bring challenges, particularly for those working outdoors. For instance, reduced visibility due to downpours can lead to accidents involving vehicles, moving equipment, and other potential hazards. Fortunately, hi-vis safety rain gear provides a simple yet effective solution for keeping workers dry and highly visible in adverse weather conditions.

Below, we explore the key elements of this essential safety equipment to help you find the perfect hi-vis safety gear for your needs.

Importance of Rain Safety Gear

Wet weather conditions significantly increase the risk of slips and falls. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), slips and falls are some of the most common workplace injuries, resulting in 450,540 cases of days away from work in 2022 (US BLS, n.d.). Proper rain gear with slip-resistant soles and water-repellent materials can drastically reduce these risks.

Rain can also impact visibility, especially during low-light conditions. This can pose serious hazards for workers in construction, roadside assistance, and other similar environments. The reflective elements of hi-vis rain personal protective equipment and gear help address these issues. Overall, the benefits of investing in high-quality rain PPE go beyond keeping your workers safe and dry. The enhanced comfort provided by rain safety gear effectively leads to improved focus, productivity, and morale.

Key Considerations for Selecting Hi-Vis Workwear

There are several factors to consider when selecting high visibility workwear. These include the following:

• Visibility: The primary purpose of hi-vis clothing is to make the wearer visible. Look for bright-colored gear with reflective materials that meet ANSI/ISEA 107-2020. The American National Standard for high-visibility safety apparel includes performance requirements for elements such as color, retroreflection, and recommended materials.
• Material: Opt for fabrics that offer both waterproofing and breathability, such as nylon, or polyester with polyurethane coating. These materials repel water while allowing moisture vapor to escape, preventing dampness and discomfort. PVC may be waterproof, but has a drawback of not being as breathable material as the others.
• Durability: Hi-vis safety rain gear should also feature tear and abrasion resistance properties. For example, reinforced seams and heavy-duty zippers ensure the safety gear can withstand demanding work environments.
• Comfort and Fit: Look for garments designed for ease of movement. Adjustable features at the waist, wrists, and ankles provide a secure and comfortable fit throughout the workday.

As workplace safety specialists, PK Safety offers a comprehensive range of hi-vis safety rain gear, including rain suits and hi-vis jackets. Contact us today for assistance with finding the right equipment. We’re always happy to help.

Advantages of Hi-Vis Workwear in Wet Conditions

High visibility clothing designed for wet conditions offers numerous advantages. Chief among them are the following:

• Enhanced Visibility: During rain or low-light situations, brightly colored hi-vis rain gear with reflective stripes makes workers significantly more visible to passing motorists, heavy machinery operators, and other workers. This drastically reduces the risk of accidents, especially in areas with limited visibility.
• Improved Safety: Slip-resistant soles on rain boots or waterproof footwear minimize the risk of slips and falls on wet surfaces.
• Increased Productivity: Waterproof fabrics and breathable membranes keep workers dry and comfortable, helping improve focus and productivity.
• Reduced Absenteeism: Staying dry and warm helps prevent work-related illnesses caused by prolonged exposure to wet and cold weather, leading to fewer sick days.

Remember, investing in high-quality hi-vis rain gear is a long-lasting investment in worker safety. Contact us today about the best products for your specific applications.

Ensuring Compliance: Hi-Vis Workwear Regulations and Standards

Safety regulations for hi-vis workwear may vary depending on your location. In the US, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) established the most widely recognized standards for high-visibility safety apparel. ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 is the primary standard, outlining the requirements for the design, performance, and materials used in hi-vis safety gear (ANSI, November 2, 2020).

Here are some of the main points from the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard:

• Design Requirements: High-visibility safety apparel must be highly reflective and have color properties that are easily discernible from any background. This includes red, orange, and fluorescent yellow-green.
• Performance Classes: There are different performance classes, each with specific criteria based on the worker’s activities and exposure to traffic. For example, Class 1 garments offer the minimum amount of hi-vis materials required to differentiate the wearer from non-complex environments such as parking lots and warehouses.
• Reflective Striping: Garments must meet standards on the widths and amounts of compliant retroreflective material. According to the ANSI standards, 40% of the minimum required amount of reflective and background material must be present on both the front and back of the garment when laid flat.

Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enforces the use of high-visibility clothing in environments where workers are exposed to traffic, moving equipment, and other hazards.

Tips for Proper Maintenance of Hi-Vis Workwear in Rainy Conditions

Properly maintaining hi-vis rain gear is crucial for maximizing its lifespan and effectiveness. Here are some tips:

• Cleaning: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying. Washing with warm water and mild detergent is typically recommended, as harsh chemicals can damage the waterproof coating.
• Drying: Air dry the rain gear whenever possible, as the higher temperature from dryers can damage the fabric and reflective materials.
• Storage: Store clean and dry rain gear in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to avoid fading the fluorescent colors over time.

By following these simple maintenance practices, businesses can ensure their hi-vis safety rain gear remains in optimal condition.

Get Equipped with PK Safety: Upgrade Your Rain Safety Gear Today

PK Safety has been in the safety business for over 75 years. Over that span, we’ve vetted thousands of products from trusted brands to curate a comprehensive line of the most reliable and innovative safety equipment. This includes an extensive selection of hi-vis rain gear in which most, if not all, are water repellent, including jackets, gloves, and high visibility vests.

Our knowledgeable safety supply specialists can help you choose the right gear for your specific needs, ensuring your workforce stays safe, dry, and highly visible during spring showers and beyond. Contact us today for a free consultation and to upgrade your rain safety program.

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References:

• US Bureau of Labor Statistics (n.d.) Injuries, Illnesses, and Fatalities Retrieved (April 2, 2024) from https://www.bls.gov/iif/latest-numbers.htm
• American National Standards Institute (November 2, 2020) ANSI/ISEA 107-2020: High-Visibility Safety Apparel Retrieved (April 2, 2024) from https://blog.ansi.org/2020/10/ansi-isea-107-2020-high-visibility-apparel/