Hi-Vis clothing can make a world of difference for truck drivers working in dimly lit areas, near vehicles or machinery and in poor visibility. Without the right reflective clothing, truck drivers needlessly put their personal safety at risk.
The advantages of high-visibility clothing
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration sets standards that companies must follow to keep their employees and the public safe at all times. One of these regulations is the use of high-visibility clothing.
The benefits of high visibility clothing are numerous and not industry specific as they can provide protection in multiple workplaces. Some advantages of this type of clothing are:
- Reduction of accidents at work
- Employees are more visible to third-party companies or the public
- Enforces a safer work environment
- Ensures that a company is compliant with legal regulations
- An inexpensive way to make everyone safer
Reduction of accidents at work
In 2020, transportation and material handling workers accounted for approximately 47.4% of workplace fatalities in the United States. These rates are likely to decrease as an organization enforces security standards, such as B. the use of high-visibility clothing.
Truck drivers are at risk of two of the most common accidents at work: transport accidents and contact with other objects and equipment. Routine use of highly visible equipment can help minimize the hazards involved.
Employees are more visible to third-party companies or the public
Truck drivers often need to interact with other companies or exit their vehicles on busy roads. When a driver wears high-visibility clothing, they are more visible when boarding and exiting.
Colorful clothing and safety gear with reflective material can ensure all truck drivers are visible regardless of the lighting conditions or work environment.
Enforces a safer work environment
Truck drivers need the right tools to do their job safely and have a safe working environment. One element of this is high-visibility clothing. Companies that work hard to enforce a safer work environment help make their employees feel safe and valued. In return, truck drivers may be more likely to follow company regulations and use the high-visibility clothing they are given.
Ensures that a company is compliant with government regulations
Of course, worker safety at work is an important consideration when incorporating high visibility equipment into all truck driving activities. However, it can also ensure that a trucking company is compliant with the law.
That way, a company doesn’t risk hefty fines or other drastic measures that could disrupt business operations.
An inexpensive way to keep everyone safer
High-visibility clothing does not have to be a big cost factor, even for small or medium-sized companies. They’re typically affordable and come in many styles and options, making them a great way to keep everyone safe at work without breaking a company’s budget.
Additionally, using preventative measures such as high visibility clothing is much more cost effective than trying to deal with workplace accidents after they have happened.
What is high-visibility clothing for truck drivers?
Unfortunately, not all safety gear is created equal. So by knowing which items are useful and why they are necessary for the job, you can ensure truck drivers are fully equipped and not at risk of accidents.
So what are considered the industry’s best safety options for truck drivers? Here are some popular options for high-visibility clothing:
- bracelet
- dungarees
- overalls
- headgear
- hoods
- hoodies and sweatshirts
- jackets and coats
- leg cuffs
- trousers
- shirts
- west
Every time a driver gets in and out of the vehicle, there is a risk that they will not be seen by other drivers and employees. Wearing high-visibility clothing every day is one of the best ways to comply with safety protocols.
Suitable for any climate, the versatility of this clothing makes it easy for organizations to keep their employees safe and comfortable. From lightweight vests to insulated parkas, the selection of high visibility clothing meets every need. Individuals must be identifiable and safe regardless of the current time of year or weather conditions.
The three classes of high-visibility clothing
In the United States, there are three separate classes for high-visibility clothing through the American National Standard for High-Visibility Safety Apparel and Accessories, known as ANSI/ISEA 107-2015.
These classes define material thickness, reflectance ratio, and color combinations and placement. Preset standards help regulate the industry so no employee has inadequate safety equipment.
class 1
This class is the lowest level for safety clothing. It requires minimal coverage from reflective material and is ideal for low-risk environments.
2nd grade
Class 2 high visibility clothing offers moderate protection in somewhat risky environments. These clothing options have more reflective material and contrasting colors.
Class 3
Finally, Class 3 safety clothing is used in a high risk environment. They are best used in low light or when working at a greater distance from each other.
PPE Equipment Codes
In addition, there are industry code designations to help enforce proper PPE (personal protective equipment) in the workplace. These codes include:
- Type O: for the terrain
- Type P: for public safety activities such as police, fire and ambulance
- Type R: for road and temporary traffic control
For example, some situations may require a truck driver to wear class 2 safety clothing during the day but require class 3 high visibility clothing in low light conditions.
take that away
High visibility clothing should be considered essential to everyone’s health and safety and not optional safety equipment. An organization can protect its employees by selecting the correct PPE for all employees while following all current government regulations and guidelines.
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