What is EN ISO 20471:2013+A1:2016+A2:2019?

EN ISO 20471:2013+A1:2016+A2:2019 is an international standard that specifies requirements for high-visibility clothing in the workplace. It outlines the minimum design, performance, and testing criteria to ensure the visibility of workers in hazardous or low-light conditions.

The Importance of High-Visibility Clothing

High-visibility clothing serves as a critical safety measure for workers in industries such as construction, roadwork, and emergency services. Its fluorescent and reflective properties enhance the visibility of individuals, reducing the risk of accidents and improving their safety.

This type of clothing is designed to be easily distinguishable in various lighting conditions, including dimly lit environments and during nighttime work. By ensuring workers are highly visible, it helps prevent potential collisions, hazards, and other accidents in the workplace.

Requirements and Testing

EN ISO 20471:2013+A1:2016+A2:2019 sets specific requirements for high-visibility garments, including color, retroreflective capabilities, and garment design. The standard also provides guidelines on how to properly assess and test these garments to ensure compliance with the set standards.

One of the key aspects is the choice of fluorescent materials that have excellent colorfastness and maintain their visibility even through multiple washes. Retroreflective materials, often in the form of tape or fabric, are required to reflect light back to its source, making the wearer visible from all directions.

Impact and Benefits

Implementing EN ISO 20471:2013+A1:2016+A2:2019 in workplaces brings multiple benefits. It helps reduce accidents and injuries by improving the visibility of workers, especially in high-risk areas where heavy machinery or road traffic is present.

Additionally, it reinforces the responsibility of employers to prioritize employee safety and provides a clear framework for selecting and procuring high-quality high-visibility clothing. This ensures that workers are provided with reliable protective gear that meets the necessary standards.