How to Properly Select and Wear a Safety Vest

When it comes to workplace safety, a high-visibility safety vest is one of the simplest but most effective pieces of gear. Whether you're on a bustling construction site, directing traffic, or working near heavy machinery, a safety vest helps ensure you're seen clearly—day or night.

But not all vests are created equal. Choosing the wrong type (or wearing it incorrectly) can reduce its effectiveness and put workers at risk. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the right vest and wearing it the right way.

___________

🦺 Choosing the Right Safety Vest: What to Look For

1. Know Your Work Environment

Different jobs have different visibility needs. Start by asking the following:

🔵 Will the vest be worn indoors or outdoors?
🔵 Are you working day or night?
🔵 Is there vehicle traffic or heavy equipment nearby?
🔵 Will you need extra pockets, ID windows, or specialized gear?

This will help determine the right ANSI class and features required.

2. Understand ANSI/ISEA Standards

✅ Pro Tip: When in doubt, go up a class—especially for nighttime or low-light work.

3. Pick the Right Color

Most vests come in hi-vis yellow/lime or orange, but color matters:
🔵 Yellow/lime: Great for natural environments (trees, grass, etc.)
🔵 Orange: Better for urban/construction zones where machinery is already yellow

___________

👕 How to Properly Wear a Safety Vest

Getting the right vest is only half the equation—you’ve got to wear it right.

✅ Wear it over all clothing and gear

Your vest should be the outermost layer—not buried under a hoodie or harness. It needs to be fully visible from all angles.

✅ Zip or fasten it completely

A loose or unzipped vest won’t meet ANSI visibility standards. Make sure it’s fully secured every time.

✅ Keep it clean and damage-free

Dirt, oil, and fading reduce visibility. Inspect regularly for:
🔵 Stains or grime
🔵 Torn reflective tape
🔵 Fraying edges

Replace vests at the first sign of wear to maintain compliance.

✅ Ensure proper fit

Too tight = restricted movement.
Too loose = snags and reduced visibility.

Here’s a general fit tip: your vest should cover the torso and upper back, and reflective tape should stay flat and unobstructed.

___________

🔍 Extra Features to Consider

Depending on the job, you might want vests with:
🔵 Multiple pockets for tools or pens
🔵 Clear ID windows for site access
🔵 Mic tabs for radio communication
🔵 Elastic sides or adjustable fits for layering

Also consider:
🔵 Women’s-specific fits or tailored designs for improved comfort
🔵 Hi-vis bomber jackets or long-sleeves for cold weather work

___________

🧼 Care & Maintenance Tips

Want your vest to last? Follow these care tips:
🔵 Machine wash cold (no bleach or fabric softener)
🔵 Hang dry or tumble on low
🔵 Inspect after every wash for reflective wear or fraying seams

___________

✅ Final Checklist: Selecting & Wearing Your Vest

___________

👷 Stay Seen, Stay Safe

Your safety vest is more than just a piece of fabric—it’s your first line of defense in hazardous environments. By choosing the right vest and wearing it properly, you’re not just complying with workplace rules—you’re protecting yourself and those around you.

Need help finding the right vest for your team? Contact us or check out our full line of ANSI-compliant safety apparel today!

Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on new products and much more!