Updates to ANSI/ISEA 107-2020: Enhancing High-Visibility Safety Apparel Standards
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has released the updated ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard, which provides comprehensive guidelines for high-visibility safety apparel (HVSA). This standard aims to improve worker visibility during various lighting conditions, including day, low-light, and night.
Key Changes in the ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Standard
1. No Criteria for Hi-Vis Accessories: The updated standard has removed the criteria for optional hi-vis accessories. Although no longer required, workers are still encouraged to use hi-vis accessories to enhance “biomotion,” the visual recognition of a person’s movement, which helps indicate their presence in a work area.
2. Elimination of Maximum Wash Cycles on Care Labels: Previously, the maximum number of wash cycles was indicated on the care labels of hi-vis garments to establish their lifespan. The new standard removes this requirement to avoid confusion regarding the overall wear and tear of the apparel, which might necessitate earlier retirement.
3. New Testing Requirements for Segmented Reflective Tape: With the increased use of segmented and perforated retroreflective materials, the updated standard includes additional testing requirements to ensure the accurate brightness of these tapes. This prevents manufacturers from overstating their effectiveness.
4. Inclusion of Single-Use Disposable Garments: Recognizing the need for high-visibility safety in environments where garments get soiled quickly, the new standard includes criteria for single-use disposable coveralls. These coveralls must meet the same material requirements as other compliant high-visibility apparel and must be labeled accordingly.
5. Updated Tag Requirements: Product tags will now reflect the 2020 update, replacing 2015 with 2020. The tags must continue to show the garment type, class, and level of performance for retroreflective materials. Additionally, if a garment is not flame resistant, the label must state, “This garment is not flame resistant as defined by ANSI/ISEA 107-2020.”
Categories of High-Visibility Garments
The standard categorizes high-visibility garments into three main types based on their usage environment:
- Type O (Off-Road Use – Class 1): For workers not exposed to traffic.
- Type R (Roadway Use – Class 2 & Class 3): For workers on or near public roadways.
- Type P (Public Safety – Class 2 & Class 3): For emergency responders and law enforcement in both roadway and off-road settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there other differences between the ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 and ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standards? Yes, there are additional differences between the two versions. Detailed information can be found in the companion document “Highlights of ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 What’s Changing” or by consulting with a PIP® Sales Representative.
Does the new standard replace the 2015 edition? Yes, ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 replaces the ANSI/ISEA 107-2015 version as the current standard.
Will the type and classification of a hi-vis garment change under the updated standard? No, the type and classification of hi-vis garments remain the same.
What about garment sizing for smaller workers? Type R “roadway” Class 2 and Class 3 garments now allow for a reduced minimum area requirement for the smallest size, improving accommodation for smaller workers.
Are “biomotion” design concepts included in the standard requirements? Yes, garments with sleeves or pant legs must include high-visibility materials in these areas to enhance visibility through biomotion.
For more information or to address specific questions, please contact a PIP representative at (800) 262-5755 or visit the Protective Industrial Products website.
Conclusion
The ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 standard marks a significant step forward in enhancing the visibility and safety of workers in various environments. By incorporating new testing requirements, updating labeling protocols, and expanding the criteria to include single-use garments, the standard ensures that high-visibility apparel meets the evolving needs of safety in the workplace.