EN ISO 20471 explained: hi-vis classes 1, 2 and 3
EN ISO 20471 explained: hi-vis classes 1, 2 and 3
EN ISO 20471 is the standard for professional high-visibility clothing in the UK and Ireland. It sorts garments into Class 1, 2 or 3 by how much fluorescent and reflective material they carry.
Updated
Quick answer
EN ISO 20471 (current edition 2013+A1:2016) certifies work hi-vis. Class 1 is the least visible and suits low-risk areas such as yards and warehouses; Class 2 is the everyday choice for most sites; Class 3 carries the most material and is used near fast traffic, on rail and at night. The class is shown as a number beside the hi-vis pictogram, and it applies to the size that was tested.
At a glance
| Detail | |
|---|---|
| What it covers | Hi-vis jackets, vests, polos, T-shirts, trousers, bib and brace and coveralls for work |
| Colours | Fluorescent yellow, orange-red or red |
| Status in GB | Designated in Great Britain (GOV.UK notice 0142/26, 15 October 2026) |
| Status in Ireland and NI | Harmonised in the EU, so it applies in Ireland and Northern Ireland (since 21 April 2018) |
| On the label | Hi-vis pictogram with the class number (1, 2 or 3), "EN ISO 20471" and any maximum number of washes |
Minimum visible material by class
| Class | Fluorescent background | Retroreflective tape | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | 0.14 m² | 0.10 m² | Yards, warehouses, indoor forklift areas |
| Class 2 | 0.50 m² | 0.13 m² | Most sites, built-up roads, site traffic |
| Class 3 | 0.80 m² | 0.20 m² | Fast roads, rail, night and poor visibility |
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EN ISO 20471 questions
Is a Class 2 vest enough on a building site?
On many sites yes, but some sites and clients require Class 3 or sleeves. Check your site rules and risk assessment.
Can a logo affect the hi-vis class?
Yes. A large logo covers visible material and can take a garment below its class, so ask us before branding hi-vis.
Does the class apply to every size?
Not always. A style can reach a lower class in its smallest sizes, so check the label for the size you buy.
Need this for a team?
We can supply and brand PPE for your whole team, delivered across the UK and Ireland.
Official sources
Standards and site rules change. Always check the current edition, the product's declaration of conformity and your own risk assessment.
- GOV.UK: Designated standards for PPE (Great Britain): https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/designated-standards-ppe
- European Commission: Harmonised standards for PPE (EU, applies in Ireland and Northern Ireland): https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/single-market/goods/european-standards/harmonised-standards/personal-protective-equipment_en
- HSA: High visibility clothing for use around moving vehicles: https://www.hsa.ie/eng/publications_and_forms/publications/work_related_vehicles/high_visibility_clothing_for_use_around_moving_vehicles/
- BSI: the UK National Standards Body (publishes BS EN standards): https://www.bsigroup.com/en-GB/about-bsi/uk-national-standards-body/
- NSAI: National Standards Authority of Ireland (publishes I.S. EN standards): https://www.nsai.ie/