Wool Research Association

(An Approved Body of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India)

WRA Testing and Certification for High Visibility Clothing

In recent years, the rapid development of the traffic industry has led to a high increase in road construction and private car ownership — bringing convenience but also high-frequency traffic accidents. To strengthen personal safety protection, the demand for high-visibility clothing is expanding across industries such as police, sanitation, airports, and construction.

High-visibility clothing has gradually become an integral part of our lives and necessary personal protective equipment.

High Visibility Clothing Testing

What is High- Visibility Safety Apparel?

The purpose of high-visibility safety apparel is to make workers stand out from their background, providing greater visibility during both day and night work. These garments use fluorescent-colored base materials (yellow-green or orange-red) and retroreflective materials that reflect light back to its source.

  • Workers should not match the color of traffic barrels, cones, or vehicles.
  • Contrast against background is important — orange vests work best in green areas, green vests against orange cones.
  • For night work, garments must also be retroreflective and visible up to 1,000 feet.

Classes of Apparel

ANSI Type O, Class 1

For off-road environments with minimal high-visibility material requirements.

ANSI Type R or P, Class 2

Minimum protection level for workers exposed to roadways and traffic zones.

ANSI Type R or P, Class 3

Provides maximum visibility in complex environments and full-body movement coverage.

ANSI Class E

Enhances visibility when combined with Class 2 or 3 garments for complete protection.

If garments are intended for rainfall protection, materials are tested for water resistance or waterproof properties.

Design Requirement for Hi-Visbility Garments:

High-Visibility Standards Used Around the World

  • International: EN ISO 20471:2013
  • Europe: EN471:2003+A1:2007, GO/RT3279 (Rail Track)
  • Australia/New Zealand: AS/NZS 1906.4:2010, AS/NZS 4602:1999
  • Brazil: ABNT NBR 15292:2005
  • China: GB20653:2006
  • Canada: CSA Z96-09, CAN/CSA Z96.1-08
  • Malaysia: AMS1731:2004
  • USA: ANSI/ISEA 107-2010, ANSI/ISEA 207-2006
  • India: IS 15809:2017

WRA Evaluation & Testing

WRA evaluates the design of garments by analyzing the surface area of background material, retroreflective material, and combined performance material. Tests include chromaticity (color quality), luminance, and retroreflection measurement.

Our experts determine compliance with relevant PPE standards and advise on testing requirements based on fabric composition and garment construction.

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