What is EN ISO 20471:2013-A2:2018

EN ISO 20471:2013-A2:2018 is an international standard that specifies requirements for high visibility clothing, particularly those worn by workers in high-risk environments such as construction sites or roadworks. This standard ensures that the clothing provides adequate visibility to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Requirements and Testing

In order to meet the requirements of EN ISO 20471:2013-A2:2018, high visibility clothing must be made from fluorescent fabric of specified colors, such as fluorescent yellow or orange. The garments should also have retroreflective tape, which reflects light back to its source, increasing the wearer's visibility in low-light conditions. Additionally, the clothing should have sufficient coverage of these materials to ensure maximum visibility from all angles. The standard also defines minimum areas of visible material to be present on different types of garments, taking into account the various body movements made by workers in different environments.

To ensure compliance with the standard, high visibility clothing undergoes rigorous testing. The retroreflective tape is tested for its ability to reflect light under specified conditions, while the fluorescent fabric is tested for colorfastness and its ability to retain its fluorescent properties over time. The garments are also tested for their compatibility with other personal protective equipment (PPE), ensuring that they can be worn without interfering with the performance of other safety gear.

Benefits and Impact

The implementation of EN ISO 20471:2013-A2:2018 has been crucial in improving safety standards for workers in high-risk environments. By making workers more visible to others, the standard helps to minimize the risk of accidents and injuries. This is particularly important in industries where workers are exposed to moving vehicles or machinery, where a momentary lapse in visibility can have severe consequences.

The use of high visibility clothing not only protects workers but also enhances their confidence and comfort. Knowing that they are wearing clothing that meets international safety standards provides a sense of security, allowing them to focus on their tasks without unnecessary distractions or worry about their visibility.

Conclusion

EN ISO 20471:2013-A2:2018 is a crucial standard for the manufacturing and usage of high visibility clothing. It sets out the requirements that these garments must meet in order to ensure the safety and visibility of workers in high-risk environments. By complying with this standard, employers can provide their workers with reliable and effective personal protective equipment, reducing the risk of accidents and creating safer working conditions overall.