High-Visibility Workwear: Stay Safe this Winter!

High-visibility workwear, often known by the abbreviation 'hi-vis', is a crucial piece of PPE and its wear is often mandated by law in many workplaces, particularly those associated with construction. Now that the clocks have gone back and it gets light later and dark earlier, it's absolutely essential to make sure that you're seen in such dangerous environments. 

In the early 1930s, an American man by the name of Bob Switzer was the victim of a horrendous industrial accident while at work. His injuries were so devastating that he had to endure an extended period of convalescence. During weeks spent recuperating, he had an idea to invent a fluorescent paint that could be applied to clothing, thus helping to prevent such accidents happening to other people working in dangerous environments.

Matching deed to thought, Switzer got to work in his garden shed on inventing fluorescent paint. The story goes that he experimented with his new creation by painting it onto the wedding dress that belonged to his wife! However she reacted (and we assume it was with anger and dismay!), the invention worked and became an instant success. 

In was in 1964 that workwear treated with Switzer's fluorescent pain arrived in the UK. Track staff working for British Railways were chosen to trial the orange jackets, which were quickly dubbed with the nickname of 'fireflies'. When asked how effective they felt the garments were in increasing visibility, the track workers left their employers in no doubt with their overwhelmingly positive reaction. Hi-vis jackets were soon being worn all over the country by workers from a diverse array of industries. 

Here at Tiger Safety, we proudly supply hi-vis workwear designed and manufactured by leading workwear and PPE brand Unbreakable: Gibson High Visibility Joggers and Sherman High Visibility Hoodies.

Both of these garments are Class 1 reflective and are certified to prove that they meet the rigorous and demanding EN ISO 20471: 2013 standard. The garments feature contrasting tones of blue with hi-vis yellow and GORT-compliant hi-vis orange, along with retro reflective bands. Featuring adjustment facilities and elasticated elements to ensure a perfect and comfortable fit, these items of hi-vis workwear are available in a full range of sizes at the most competitive price from Tiger Safety. 

Find out more details about our Unbreakable hi-vis workwear on the Tiger Safety website and don't hesitate to get in touch if you need any further information. Don't forget that UK delivery is FREE on all orders totalling £30 or more!