Hi Vis Shirts and Top 10 Manufacturers: A Guide to High Visibility Safety Apparel
Updated: 4-Jun-2025
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Hi vis shirts, also known as high visibility shirts or high vis shirts, are a critical component of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Designed to enhance visibility in hazardous work environments, these safety shirts are essential for anyone working in construction, traffic management, roadwork, warehouses, or industrial job sites.
Whether you’re on a busy highway at night or on a sunlit construction site, hi vis work shirts ensure you stay visible to others, significantly reducing the risk of accidents. High visibility clothing, has a wide variety of styles like hi vis t shirts, hi vis long sleeve shirts, hi vis button up shirts, and Hi Vis Vest, there’s a perfect option for every worker and work condition.
History and Evolution of High Visibility Apparel
The use of high visibility apparel dates back to the 1960s in the UK, initially for railway workers. Over the decades, regulations from organizations like OSHA and ANSI/ISEA have standardized the design, ensuring maximum visibility and safety across various industries. Today, hi-vis shirts have evolved to include flame resistance, moisture-wicking, UV protection, and breathable designs, blending safety with comfort and durability.
What is a Hi Vis Shirt
A Hi Vis Shirt (High-Visibility Shirt) is a type of safety apparel designed to make the wearer easily visible in hazardous or low-light environments. These shirts are typically made from brightly colored fabrics (fluorescent yellow, orange, or red) and often feature reflective tape that enhances visibility under light sources like headlights or flashlights.
Common Uses:
- Road construction
- Warehousing and logistics
- Emergency services
- Traffic management
- Railway and airport operations
- Mining and oil industries
Purpose:
- Prevent accidents by increasing worker visibility
- Comply with national/international safety regulations (e.g., ANSI/ISEA 107, EN ISO 20471)
Types of Hi Vis Shirts
See further detail
Hi Vis T Shirts
Short-sleeved and made from moisture-wicking fabric, hi vis t-shirts are perfect for hot environments. Carhartt hi vis t shirt and Dickies hi vis shirts are top-rated in terms of comfort and durability.
Hi Vis Long Sleeve Shirts
These provide added coverage and are ideal for sun protection and colder environments. Popular versions include hi vis dri fit long sleeve shirts and carhartt hi vis shirt options.
Hi Vis Button Up Shirts
Button down hi vis shirts, including hi vis flannel shirts and hi vis plaid shirts, are ideal for a more professional look without compromising safety.
Hi Vis Polo Shirts
Hi vis polo shirts offer a more tailored fit for workers in logistics, transport, and customer-facing industrial roles.
FR Hi Vis Shirts
For those working around flames or sparks, hi vis fr shirts or fr high vis shirts made of flame resistant hi vis clothing are essential for compliance with safety standards and to prevent injury.
Custom Hi Vis Shirts
Businesses can promote their brand and improve safety with screen printing hi vis shirts or custom hi vis shirts that include company logos.
Is there any difference between high visibility, Hi Vis, and high vis shirts
No, there is no fundamental difference between “high visibility, “hi vis” and “high vis shirts” They are all terms that refer to the same concept: clothing designed to increase a wearer’s visibility, especially in potentially hazardous environments. The terms are often used interchangeably.
Elaboration:
- High Visibility: This is the broader term referring to the overall concept of clothing designed for increased visibility.
- Hi Vis: This is a shortened version of “high visibility” and is used commonly in place of the full term.
- High Vis Shirts: This specifically refers to shirts that are designed to be highly visible, often incorporating bright colors, reflective materials, or both.
Key Features of High Visibility Clothing:
- Bright, Fluorescent Colors: These colors, like fluorescent yellow-green, orange, and red, are designed to stand out against various backgrounds.
- Retro-reflective Materials: Reflective strips or materials help to reflect light back to the source, making the wearer more visible in low-light conditions.
- ANSI Standards: High visibility garments are often designed to meet the standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which outlines requirements for background materials and reflective areas.
- Purpose: The primary purpose of high visibility clothing is to improve safety by making workers more visible to drivers, other workers, and equipment operators, especially in potentially hazardous situations.
For example, a hi-vis shirt might be worn by construction workers, utility workers, or other individuals who work in environments with traffic or machinery.
In short, “high visibility,” “Hi Vis,” and “high vis shirts” are all terms describing clothing designed to enhance a person’s visibility in various settings, with “high vis shirts” being a specific type of high visibility clothing.
Top Brands in Hi Vis Shirts
Carhartt Hi Vis
Renowned for their rugged durability, carhartt hi vis shirts and carhartt hi vis t shirts are popular among construction workers and tradespeople.
Dickies Hi Vis Shirts
Offering high durability and affordability, Dickies hi vis shirts are ideal for those who want ANSI/ISEA compliant wear without breaking the bank.
Under Armour Hi Vis Shirts
Combining athletic design and moisture-wicking fabric, Under Armour hi vis shirts provide superior comfort for long shifts.
Key Features of High Visibility Shirts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Reflective Tape | Provides nighttime visibility and enhances detection by headlights. |
| Durable Polyester Material | Common in industrial work shirts, it ensures longevity. |
| Breathable Safety Wear | Includes lightweight high vis shirts made with mesh and vented fabrics. |
| UV Resistant Fabric | Offers sun protection, especially in hi vis long sleeve shirt variants. |
| Safety Shirt with Pockets | Adds functionality for workers to store tools or devices. |
| Fluorescent Clothing | Bright colors like neon green, orange, and red hi vis shirts improve day and night safety. |
| Moisture-Wicking Fabric | Keeps you dry and cool during long hours. |
Industries That Require Hi Vis Shirts
- Construction site apparel
- Traffic safety clothing
- Road worker clothing
- Warehouse and logistics
- Utility and telecom services
- Railway and airport ground operations
- Oil, gas, and chemical industries (especially hi vis flame resistant shirts)
Regulations and Compliance
All professional-grade high vis t shirts and hi vis uniform wear must meet ANSI/ISEA standards. These include:
- Class 2 safety shirts – for traffic speeds under 50 mph.
- Class 3 safety shirts – for higher-risk environments like highways.
- OSHA safety standards – mandate visibility gear for many hazardous job sites.
Trendy and Unique Hi Vis Options
While most safety gear focuses on function, some workers prefer stylish or funny options:
- Funny hi vis shirts
- Funny hi vis work shirts
- Hi vis Hawaiian shirt and hi vis aloha shirt
- Hi vis golf shirt and hi vis golf shirts
- Blue hi vis shirts and even plaid patterns for fashion-conscious workers.
These not only boost morale but also comply with visibility standards when paired with reflective tape.
Maintenance Tips for Hi Vis Shirts
- Wash inside out with mild detergent to preserve reflective elements.
- Avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
- Inspect regularly for wear and tear on the reflective tape.
- Replace every 6 months or sooner if visibility is compromised.
How to Clean Hi Vis Shirts
Proper care extends the lifespan and reflective effectiveness of hi-vis shirts. Here’s how:
General Washing Instructions:
- Turn Shirt Inside Out – Protects reflective strips from wear.
- Use Cold or Warm Water – Do not exceed 40°C (104°F).
- Use Mild Detergent – Avoid bleach, softeners, and harsh chemicals.
- Gentle Cycle – Prevents stress on fabric and strips.
- Hang Dry or Low Heat – High heat can damage reflective tape.
Avoid:
- Dry cleaning
- Ironing over reflective tape
- Fabric softeners (they degrade reflectivity)
Recommended Cleaning Frequency:
- Light use: Every 4–5 wears
- Heavy/dirty use: After each wear
How to Get Stains Out of Hi Vis Shirts
Common Stains and Solutions:
| Stain Type | Cleaning Solution |
|---|---|
| Grease/Oil | Apply dish soap directly, let sit 10 minutes, then wash as normal |
| Mud/Dirt | Pre-soak in warm water with mild detergent before washing |
| Paint | Use rubbing alcohol or a citrus-based cleaner (test on small area) |
| Ink | Dab with isopropyl alcohol and blot with paper towel |
| Sweat/Odor | Soak in vinegar-water mix (1:3) for 30 minutes before washing |
Always rinse thoroughly and avoid abrasive scrubbing over reflective areas.
Where to Buy Hi Vis Shirts
You can purchase high-quality hi-vis shirts from both physical retailers and online stores.
Top Physical Retailers:
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
- Walmart (Workwear aisle)
- Grainger Industrial Supply
- Local safety supply stores
Top Online Retailers:
| Online Store | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Amazon | Wide range, fast delivery |
| Grainger.com | Industrial-grade, ANSI/OSHA-compliant |
| HiVisSupply.com | Specialized hi-vis gear, bulk discounts |
| Workwear Express | Custom logo printing options |
| ReflectiveApparel.com | High-end reflective wear |
| PIP Global | Manufacturer-direct product options |
Tip: Always check for compliance labels (e.g., ANSI/ISEA 107, EN ISO 20471) before purchase.
What Shirt Colors are Allowed as Class 1 Hi Vis
According to ANSI/ISEA 107 standards, Class 1 Hi-Vis Shirts are designed for low-risk work environments and require limited fluorescent material and reflective tape.
Permitted Base Colors for Class 1:
- Fluorescent Yellow-Green
- Fluorescent Orange-Red
- Fluorescent Red
Not Allowed:
- Non-fluorescent colors (e.g., black, navy, gray, white)
- Pastel, washed-out tones that reduce daytime visibility
Class 1 garments are NOT recommended for highway or high-traffic work zones. They are suitable for:
- Parking attendants
- Warehouse pickers
- Delivery personnel in non-roadway areas
Pros and Cons of Hi Vis Shirts
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enhances worker safety and visibility | May wear out faster with heavy washing |
| Multiple styles and comfort levels | FR options can be more expensive |
| Compliant with ANSI and OSHA | Custom shirts require minimum orders |
| Moisture-wicking, UV protection, breathable | Some materials not suitable for cold weather |
| Promotes professionalism on job sites | Must be replaced periodically |
Top 10 Manufacturers of Hi Vis Shirts
| Manufacturer | Usage/Application | Operation Duration | Where to Use | Average Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3M | Construction, Roadwork, Railways | 6–12 months | Industrial zones, road sites | $20–$50 |
| Carhartt | Outdoor labor, logistics, oil fields | 12–18 months | Warehouses, refineries, shipyards | $25–$70 |
| Portwest | General Industry, Utilities | 6–12 months | Airports, docks, construction zones | $15–$40 |
| Ergodyne | Emergency response, traffic | 6–10 months | Police, medics, roadside assistance | $25–$60 |
| Radians | Electrical, Mining | 8–12 months | Mines, factories, tunnels | $20–$55 |
| PIP (Protective Industrial Products) | Manufacturing, Waste Management | 6–10 months | Production lines, waste plants | $15–$35 |
| Blåkläder | High-risk operations, cold weather | 12–24 months | Arctic worksites, highways, utility poles | $50–$100 |
| ML Kishigo | Traffic, Utility work | 8–12 months | Street repairs, utility installations | $20–$60 |
| Dickies | Light construction, maintenance | 6–12 months | Maintenance jobs, transport depots | $20–$45 |
| Reflective Apparel Factory | Government, Transportation | 6–12 months | Municipal projects, transport networks | $20–$55 |
International Standards and Guidelines for Hi Vis Shirts
| Standard Code | Region/Organization | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 | USA | Standard for design, performance & materials in high-visibility garments |
| CSA Z96-15 | Canada | High-visibility safety apparel standard for Canadian workforce |
| EN ISO 20471:2013 | Europe (EU) | Specifies requirements for high-visibility clothing to ensure visibility |
| AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 | Australia/New Zealand | Design & use of high-visibility garments in occupational settings |
| OSHA Guidelines | USA (Occupational Safety) | Requires hi-vis clothing for roadwork & construction under 23 CFR Part 634 |
| ISO 13688:2013 | Global | General requirements for protective clothing including hi-vis garments |
| RIS-3279-TOM | UK Rail Industry | Specific high-visibility clothing for UK railway workers |
International Statistics: Losses Due to Ineffective Use of Hi Vis Shirts
| Region | Annual Incidents Attributed | Estimated Losses (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 4,500+ accidents/year | $300+ million/year | Injuries/fatalities in road construction zones |
| European Union | 3,200+ incidents/year | €250 million+ | Rail & traffic accidents due to poor visibility |
| Australia | 1,100+ injuries/year | AUD $80 million+ | Utility worker accidents in low-visibility environments |
| Global Total | ~10,000+ accidents/year | ~$1.2 billion | Losses from missed visibility and non-compliance |
International Statistics: Achievements Due to Effective Use of Hi Vis Shirts
| Region | Improvement Rate | Outcome Description |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 42% drop in rail worker incidents | Since enforcing RIS-3279-TOM standard |
| Canada | 30% decrease in road fatalities | Post CSA Z96 implementation |
| USA | 47% fewer highway work zone injuries | ANSI/ISEA 107 compliance increase |
| Germany | 38% drop in industrial accidents | ISO 20471 standard adoption in factories |
| Australia | 25% improvement in night shift safety | AS/NZS 4602.1 mandates |
| Global Avg. | ~35% improved safety | Effective policy and training using hi-vis shirts |
Replacement Duration of Hi Vis Shirts
| Wear Intensity | Replacement Duration |
|---|---|
| Light Use (office visits, site tours) | 12–18 months |
| Moderate Use (construction, utilities) | 6–12 months |
| Heavy Use (daily field use, washing) | 3–6 months |
| Post-Damage/Reflectivity Loss | Immediate replacement recommended |
Note: Replace garments if reflective strips fade or fabric tears beyond repair.
Compatibility Temperature Chart for Hi Vis Shirts
| Material Type | Temperature Range (°C / °F) | Best Use Environment |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester Mesh | -5°C to 35°C (23°F to 95°F) | Warm, humid conditions |
| Cotton Blend | 0°C to 30°C (32°F to 86°F) | Moderate climates |
| Insulated Hi-Vis | -20°C to 10°C (-4°F to 50°F) | Cold storage, winter outdoor use |
| Moisture-Wicking Fabric | 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F) | Summer, high-activity environments |
| FR-treated Hi-Vis | Varies by make (-10°C to 40°C) | High-heat or spark-risk areas |
Summary for Hi Vis Shirts
Hi Vis Shirts play an essential role in enhancing occupational safety across high-risk industries such as construction, transportation, and emergency services. Governed by international safety standards like ANSI/ISEA 107, EN ISO 20471, and CSA Z96, these garments ensure workers remain visible under hazardous or low-light conditions. Leading manufacturers such as 3M, Carhartt, and Portwest offer specialized designs suited to different environments and durability needs.
While ineffective or non-compliant hi-vis gear has led to significant global losses, proper adoption has demonstrated a 30–45% reduction in workplace incidents. Regular maintenance and timely replacement—based on usage and reflectivity—are critical to maintaining safety compliance. As work environments become more dynamic, temperature-compatible
FAQs About Hi Vis Shirts
What makes a shirt “high visibility“
A shirt becomes “high visibility” when made from fluorescent materials and fitted with reflective tape, ensuring workers are visible in both daytime and nighttime conditions.
Are hi vis shirts OSHA-compliant
Yes, as long as they meet ANSI/ISEA standards, they are OSHA-compliant for job site visibility.
How do I choose the right hi vis shirt
Consider your environment (indoor vs outdoor, hot vs cold), job role, and whether flame resistance or moisture-wicking features are needed.
Can I customize hi vis shirts
Yes, custom hi vis shirts with screen printing or logos are popular for branding and team identification.
Do flame-resistant hi vis shirts offer the same visibility
Yes. FR hi vis shirt options still meet ANSI/ISEA visibility standards while adding flame protection.
Conclusion
Hi vis shirts are more than just bright clothing—they are a lifesaving necessity on hazardous job sites. From hi vis t shirts for summer to hi vis fr shirts for industrial safety, there’s a solution for every need and environment. Whether you’re choosing a Carhartt hi vis, a hi vis polo shirt, or even a hi vis Hawaiian shirt, prioritize quality, compliance, and comfort.
Choosing the right high visibility apparel enhances your safety, ensures regulatory compliance, and can even add a touch of style to your workwear. Invest in top-quality reflective work shirts today and stay seen, stay safe.
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