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High-Visibility (Hi-Vis) PPE

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This Toolbox Talk explains why hi-vis PPE is important, when it must be worn, and what is expected of everyone working in areas where vehicles, plant or poor visibility present a risk. Hi-vis is a key control to help drivers and operators see you in time to avoid accidents.

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    • Why is Hi-Vis important

      Being seen is critical when working around vehicles, mobile plant or traffic routes. Many serious injuries and fatalities occur because drivers do not see pedestrians early enough.

      Hi-vis PPE:

      • Helps drivers and plan operators identify people quickly
      • Improves visibility in daylight, low light and poor weather
      • Reduces the risk of struck-by and reversing incidents
      • Most vehicle-related incidents are preventable when the correct hi-vis PPE is worn consistently

    • When should Hi-Vis be worn?

      Hi-vis PPE must be worn:

      • In vehicle routes, yards and loading areas
      • Where forklifts, mobile plant or site vehicles operate
      • During delivery, loading or unloading activities
      • In poor lighting, bad weather or night work
      • Wherever site rules or signage requires it

      Removing Hi-Vis PPE in these areas could put you and others at risk.

    • High-Vis Classes – What you need to know

      Hi-Vis PPE is issued to you, based on risk assessment and site rules. There are three levels (“Classes”) of high-vis:

      • Class 1 – offers a low level of visibility, therefore is not often used where moving vehicles are present.
      • Class 2 – offers a medium level of visibility, common in vehicle yards, warehouses and sites where moving vehicles are present.
      • Class 3 – offers a high level of visibility, often required for high-risk working areas such as highways, poor visibility or night work.

      You must wear the minimum class specified for your work area.

    • Wear your Hi-Vis correctly

      To ensure its effectiveness, hi-vis PPE must be worn appropriately. In particular, you should ensure that:

      • Your high-vis is fully fastened and clearly visible
      • You wear your hi-vis at all times, in designated areas
      • It is not covered by other clothing
      • You don’t remove it, even for “just a moment”

      You will be issues with the appropriate class for the activity and risks. Always war hi-vis issued to you.

    • Condition & Care

      Damaged or faded hi-vis PPE does not provide protection. You should:

      • Check hi-vis before use
      • Report fading, tears, or damaged reflective strips
      • Keep hi-vis clean so it remains visible
      • Replace hi-vis that no longer performs effectively
      • Never rely on worn-out PPE

    • Common reasons for Hi-Vis failures

      Incident can happen if:

      • Hi-vis is not being worn
      • Hi-vis is ineffective for the risk and activities (incorrect class being used)
      • Hi-vis is covered by jackets or harnesses
      • The garments are dirty, defective or faded
      • Users become complacent / willing to take short cuts

      If the risk assessment required it, the use of hi-vis clothing is not optional, but a basic safety control.

    • Remember

      • Hi-vis PPE helps drivers see you
      • If hi-vis is required, wear it
      • If it is damaged, report it
      • If you are unsure which class to wear, ask
      • Never assume you can be seen
      • If visibility is reduced, stop and reassess

       

    • Discussion Points

      • Where on site should hi-vis be worn?
      • Have you inspected the condition of your hi-vis today?
      • Does everyone consistently wear hi-vis appropriately on our site?
      • How would you report damaged or worn-out hi-vis?

    • Download the Toolbox Talk PDF

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      Ideal for team briefings, training sessions, or your health & safety records.

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    Your Questions Answered

    Everything you need to know Hi-Vis

    • Why do I need to wear hi-vis?Reveal

      Hi-vis clothing helps make you more visible to drivers, plant operators, colleagues and other people working nearby. It is particularly important in busy, low-light or high-risk areas.

    • When should I wear hi-vis?Reveal

      Hi-vis should be worn whenever your workplace risk assessment or site rules require it, particularly when working near vehicles, mobile plant, roads or in areas with limited visibility.

    • Can I wear my own hi-vis clothing?Reveal

      Only if it meets your employer’s requirements and the relevant standard for the work being carried out. Always check your workplace policy before using personal PPE.

    • What if my hi-vis is dirty or damaged?Reveal

      Dirty, faded or damaged hi-vis may not provide the same level of visibility. Report damaged or worn PPE and replace it when necessary.

    • Does hi-vis replace other PPE?Reveal

      No. Hi-vis is only one part of your PPE. You may also need safety footwear, hard hats, eye protection, gloves or other PPE depending on the risks of the job.

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