You should wear hi-vis clothing whenever you are in a construction zone where vehicles are operating. This also applies if you're a driver and have to leave your vehicle within a construction area.
Situations Requiring High-Visibility Clothing
Here are specific scenarios where wearing hi-vis is crucial:
- Construction Zones: Any area where construction is taking place, and vehicles are actively moving around.
- Leaving a Vehicle in a Construction Zone: If you are a driver who needs to exit your vehicle within a construction zone, you need to be wearing high-visibility clothing.
- Areas With Moving Machinery: Locations with forklifts, excavators, cranes, and other moving equipment require hi-vis for safety.
What Qualifies as Hi-Vis?
Hi-vis clothing isn't limited to one specific style. Although commonly seen as a sleeveless top, hi-vis can include:
- Vests: Sleeveless hi-vis vests are common.
- Jackets: Full jackets with reflective materials.
- Shirts: Long and short-sleeved shirts with reflective features.
- Accessories: Even some headgear or wristbands can be hi-vis.
- Anything that Increases Visibility: The primary goal is to be seen clearly.
Why Wear Hi-Vis?
The purpose of wearing hi-vis clothing is clear:
- Enhanced Safety: It increases your visibility, reducing the risk of accidents.
- Preventing Injuries: Being easily seen reduces the chances of being struck by moving vehicles or equipment.
- Legal Requirement: In many work environments, wearing hi-vis is not just a suggestion; it's a legal requirement.
Key Takeaways
- Always wear hi-vis in vehicle operating construction zones.
- Drivers leaving their vehicles in such zones also require hi-vis.
- Hi-vis isn't restricted to a specific style, anything that enhances visibility is accepted.