Personal Protective Equipment
High Visibility Apparel
Because we work in close proximity to moving vehicles and mobile powered equipment, high visibility safety vests are mandatory in the yard, warehouses and construction Work Sites.
Safety vests and high visibility apparel should be worn as designed, covering the torso front and back. Apparel worn like belts or draped over the shoulders are not acceptable.
Vests and high visibility apparel should fit snugly to minimize the risk of snagging against material. Vests are adjustable to fit most people.
Guidelines for Selection
As per Qualico safety rules and Applicable Legislative requirements, high visibility (hi-vis) safety apparel is required at all times when working outside on construction sites, in the yard and at delivery sites. Hi-vis safety apparel may also be required for indoor activities, such as when using mobile equipment to move materials inside a building.
Hi-vis garments are classified into three classes of garments based on body coverage provided. Each class covers the torso (waist to neck) and / or limbs according to the minimum body coverage areas specified for each class. The following minimum classes of CSA or ANSI / ISEA approved hi-vis apparel are recommended for use on Work Sites:
| Activity | Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| General outdoor activity on Work Site in good visibility conditions |
√ | ||
| Flag Person | √ | √ (as per provincial legislation) |
|
| Spotter | √ | ||
| Outdoor activity in low- light or poor weather conditions | √ (as per hazard assessment) |
||
| Outdoor activity when area has higher than normal/more congested machinery/vehicle activity | √ (as per hazard assessment) |
Class 1 High Visibility Safety Apparel:
(minimum standard)
- Provides the lowest recognized coverage and good visibility.
- Used in lower risk situations:
- Slow moving vehicles in the area less than 40km/h or 25 mph.
- Uncongested work areas.
- Good visibility in work areas.
Class 2 High Visibility Safety Apparel:
(recommended for most Workers)
- Provides moderate body coverage and superior visibility.
- Used in medium risk situations:
- Busier, more complex work areas.
- In areas where equipment/vehicles moving 40 to 80km/h or 25 to 50 mph.
- Reduced visibility due to low light or poor weather conditions.
- Working in closer proximity to vehicles/equipment.
Class 3 High Visibility Safety Apparel:
- Provides the greatest body coverage and visibility under poor light conditions and at a great distance.
- Used in high risk situations:
- Areas where vehicle speeds exceed 80km/h or 50 mph.
- Need to be visible from long distances. (390 meters/1280 feet)
- During activities in low light or nighttime.
- Dangerous tasks.