Class 2 Safety Vests
Class 2 safety vests are a type of high-visibility vest designed to enhance the safety of workers, especially those who work in environments with moderate to high levels of traffic, both vehicle and pedestrian. These vests are typically worn by construction workers, road maintenance crews, utility workers, and others who work in conditions where visibility is critical for safety. ANSI mandates a minimum of 201 square inches of reflective tape, a minimum of 775 square inches of background material and must be identifiable as a person at least 1280 ft distance at a minimum.
Class 2 safety vests are defined by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) standards. These vests have specific characteristics and features, including:
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High-Visibility Color: Class 2 vests are typically made in fluorescent colors like neon yellow or orange, which are highly visible during the day.
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Retroreflective Material: They have retroreflective stripes or patterns that reflect light from headlights and other light sources at night, making the wearer more visible in low-light conditions.
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Minimum Coverage: Class 2 vests have a minimum required amount of background fabric and retroreflective material to ensure adequate visibility.
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Front Fastening: They often have a front fastening mechanism, such as zippers or hook-and-loop closures, for easy donning and doffing.
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Pockets and Compartments: Class 2 vests may have pockets and compartments for holding tools, radios, or other necessary equipment.
Class 2 vests are suitable for workers in situations where there is a need for enhanced visibility but not to the same extent as Class 3 vests. Class 3 vests provide even higher levels of visibility due to the greater amount of background material and retroreflective material they contain. The choice between Class 2 and Class 3 vests typically depends on the specific job site conditions and visibility requirements. It's important for employers and workers to be aware of and comply with the relevant safety standards and regulations when choosing and using safety vests to ensure their safety on the job.