Why Hi-Vis Clothing is Essential in the Wintertime

The reasons why hi-vis clothing is essential in winter months might not seem like rocket science. However, it is such a vital safety component, particularly in the darker months, that it is worth highlighting the importance of high-quality, hi-vis clothing as essential winter workwear.

In this guide, we look at some of the major reasons to invest in quality, high-visibility clothing that will keep you and your workforce safe this winter.

The Importance of Hi-Vis Clothing

Hi-vis clothing is essential in many industries throughout the year, but it really comes into its own during the winter months.

1.    Allows workers to be seen during blizzards and whiteout conditions

Blizzards might not occur all that often in Ireland, but when they do, they can hit with a vengeance! Hi-vis clothing can help workers be seen even in the most dreadful of conditions. This is critical in such weather as the conditions can quickly overwhelm a missing, lost, or injured worker.

2.    Short days – Long nights

In the winter months in Ireland, it can sometimes appear that there is no daylight at all. The short days of winter are made far worse when the skies remain grey and gloomy all day.

In such conditions, hi-vis clothing is an absolute must for outdoor workers. Hi-vis vests, trousers, and jackets can make the difference between a safe working environment and one that is an accident waiting to happen.

3.    Hi-vis workwear is essential even on sunny days

The winter sun is another issue that can affect visibility. In northern latitude countries, like Ireland, the sun lies low in the sky all winter. This causes major visibility issues. I’m sure we all have experienced the joys of driving into a low winter sun.

This is why even on the crispest winter’s day, hi-vis clothing should always be worn.

4.    Protection from the conditions

The Irish winter throws up some harsh conditions. Freezing temperatures, rain, snow, sleet, and ferocious winds can all often be experienced in a single day! As well as being a visual safety item, high-quality hi-vis clothing can also help keep workers warm and dry even in the worst of conditions.

For example, the Portwest Hi-vis 3-in1 winter jacket is perfect for the Irish winter. It features a detachable zip sweatshirt and is manufactured using a durable 300D Oxford weave for protection against the harshest of conditions.

What to look for in hi-vis clothing

It is important to choose the right hi-vis clothing for the job! In this section, we discuss some of the considerations that can help you choose the perfect hi-vis clothing for your needs.

• Materials – It might seem like a saving to opt for cheaper hi-vis clothing. But quality materials will last longer and remain effective longer, saving you money in the long run.
• Fit – Getting the right fit is essential if you want to stay comfortable and remain productive throughout a working day.
• Conditions – Workers that venture outside occasionally and in less harsh conditions will require less from their h-vis workwear. A solution like a Portwest Hi-vis vest with two highly-reflective bands that can be thrown on over normal wear will suffice in many conditions.

Whereas a tradesperson or worker who frequently has to brave harsh conditions would benefit from workwear like a high-performance jacket matched with safety trousers like the Blaklader Hi-Vis Craftsmen Trousers.

Summing Up

Remaining visible in the working environment is essential at any time of the year. In the winter months, this importance is ramped up exponentially! At HLS, we stock a range of top-quality hi-vis clothing that is designed to be practical, comfortable, and, most importantly – safety-enhancing.

Why not call us today to find out more about our range of hi-vis clothing.