ANSI 107

The ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 standard for High-Visibility Safety Apparel is a crucial guideline for ensuring workers' safety in environments where visibility is critical.

Purpose and Overview:

• Standard Consolidation: ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 consolidates the requirements of ANSI/ISEA 107-2010 and ANSI/ISEA 207 (for Public Safety Vests) into a single comprehensive document.

• Performance Classes: The standard defines three performance classes of garments based on the amount of visible material and design attributes:

  • Class 1: Intended for workers with lower risks and tasks that keep them away from moving vehicles exceeding 25 mph. Examples include parking attendants and sidewalk maintenance workers.

  • Class 2: Suitable for workers needing greater visibility in poor weather conditions or near roadways with traffic speeds above 25 mph. Includes railway workers, airport ground crews, and law enforcement directing traffic.

  • Class 3: Provides the highest level of visibility for workers in high-risk environments with traffic speeds exceeding 50 mph. Includes coverage for the arms, legs, and torso, suitable for roadway construction personnel, emergency responders, and utility workers.

Updates and Specific Requirements:

• Sizing and Fit: Addressing concerns of smaller workers, the standard allows reduced amounts of background material in Type R Class 2 and Class 3 garments for the smallest size offered, ensuring better fit and safety for smaller-framed individuals.

• Flame Resistance: Manufacturers have the option to label high-visibility garments as flame-resistant if they comply with specific ASTM and NFPA standards related to flame resistance and protection against thermal hazards.

• Accessory Items: The standard now includes minimum material requirements for high-visibility accessory items like arm bands or headwear, expanding the scope of compliant safety gear.

Compliance and Application:

• Regulatory Requirements: Enforced by regulations such as Final Rule 23 CFR Part 634 by the Department of Transportation – Federal Highway Administration, which mandates the use of high-visibility safety apparel for workers exposed to vehicular traffic or construction equipment on Federal-aid highways.

• Labeling and Identification: Garments must be labeled according to their performance class (I, II, III), type of use (O, R, P), and any additional characteristics like flame resistance, ensuring clear identification of protective capabilities.

For more detailed information or to purchase a copy of the standard, you can visit the ANSI website: ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 Standard