How To Properly Maintain Your Hi-Vis Workwear

Keeping your workwear in top condition is a proactive step in
promoting workplace safety.

By Dan Coconate

Hi-vis workwear is crucial for safety in many industries for maintaining workers’ visibility and protection. Facility managers, safety managers, and plant/operations managers should understand that keeping gear is good shape is necessary for its effectiveness and longevity. Discover how to properly maintain your hi-vis workwear so it stays vibrant and functional.

The Importance of Proper Maintenance

Hi-vis workwear relies on its bright colors and reflective materials to keep workers safe, so regular maintenance of this gear is essential.

Proper maintenance of hi-vis gear is not just about keeping clothes clean—it’s about meeting important safety standards. Shabby or faded hi-vis gear can reduce visibility, increasing the risk of accidents. Keeping your workwear in top condition is a proactive step in promoting workplace safety.

Regular Inspections for Wear and Tear

Performing regular inspections is the first step in maintaining hi-vis workwear, so routinely check for signs of wear, such as tears, fraying, or fading colors. These can compromise the garment’s visibility.

Additionally, inspect reflective strips for scratches or peeling. These regular checks help you identify when it’s time to repair or replace items, maintaining their protective qualities.

Proper Washing Techniques

Washing hi-vis workwear requires special care, so use mild detergents to avoid damaging the fabric and reflective materials.

Wash in cold water to preserve colors and avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as they can degrade reflective properties. Follow manufacturer instructions for best results—washing properly will keep your workwear bright and reflective.

Drying Hi-Vis Workwear Correctly

After washing, dry hi-vis workwear properly to maintain its integrity. Air drying is the best method, as high heat from dryers can damage fabrics and reflective strips.

If machine drying is necessary, use the lowest heat setting. Remember, proper drying techniques help extend the life of your workwear.

Mending Torn Hi-Vis Workwear

Promptly repairing damaged gear is crucial, so make sure to follow tips for mending your torn hi-vis workwear¹ as soon as you notice damage. Start with an assessment of the damage, to determine if a repair will be sufficient. A severely damaged garment may have to be discarded. Before making repairs, clean the damaged area. Use durable thread and patches that are designed specifically for high-visibilty clothing and that match the color and reflectivity of the original garment. If you are using a patch, cut it so that it is larger than the tear. Use adhesive to affix it to the garment. It’s a good idea to keep a repair kit with basic supplies on hand, for quick fixes.

Small tears can grow, further compromising safety, so use patches or fabric adhesive specifically designed for high-visibility materials. Additionally, ensure repairs are secure and won’t interfere with reflectivity. Though repairs may feel tedious, mending promptly keeps your workwear safe and effective.

Storing Hi-Vis Gear Properly

Store hi-vis workwear properly to avoid damage. Hang items to prevent wrinkles and maintain shape and store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

Proper storage guarantees your gear is ready for use and retains its protective qualities between uses.

Understanding how to maintain your hi-vis workwear is key for establishing safety in the workplace. By performing regular inspections, washing and drying correctly, mending tears, and storing properly, you extend the life of your gear and preserve its protective features. By implementing these maintenance strategies, you are investing in worker safety and operational efficiency.

As Account Manager at Logical Position, Dan Coconate develops and manages key relationships with publishing partners.

1. https://tinyurl.com/bdcch78b