High Visibility Workwear: Be Safe, Be Seen!

High visibility clothing, sometimes shortened to the simple 'hi-vis', is an essential and often legally required element of personal protective equipment (PPE) in many professions, especially in the construction industry. It is more important than ever to wear hi-vis gear during the winter as light levels are particularly low.

Fluorescent paint was invented in 1930s America by a man named Bob Switzer. After suffering a devastating industrial accident that scuppered his long-held dream of becoming a doctor, Switzer was forced to endure a long recuperation from his injuries. During this time, he hit upon the idea of using fluorescent paint on clothing to protect other workers. For reasons unknown, he decided to try out his new invention for the first time on his wife's wedding dress: we can only imagine her reaction!

Hi-vis clothing reached the UK in 1964, where it was trialled on employees working on the Scottish sector of British Railways; track workers were given fluorescent orange jackets (nicknamed 'fireflies') to wear while they worked. Asked for their opinions on the effectiveness of the garments, train drivers were overwhelmingly positive and so the jackets were soon in widespread use across the country.

Here at Tiger Safety, we are proud suppliers of hi-vis hoodies and joggers from top-brand Unbreakable. Made from tough polyester, the garments are available in high visibility yellow and GORT-compliant high visibility orange, both of which also feature contrasting blue-coloured elements. 50mm hi-vis reflective strips have also been incorporated into the design.

Both the hoodie and joggers are Class 1 Reflective and are manufactured in strict accordance with the relevant EN ISO 20471 standard. The garments include elasticated elements to ensure a comfortable fit along with an array of convenient, generously sized pockets. A full range of sizes from Small to XXXXL is available from Tiger Safety at the most competitive, cost-effective price point.

Whether you're wearing it for work or want to give yourself extra protection when cycling or walking in the nights of winter, hi-vis clothing from Unbreakable is unmatched in its effectiveness. Please browse the Tiger Safety website for more details and do not hesitate to contact our expert technical team if you need further information or advice.