Safety First: The Importance Of Hi-Vis Overalls In High-Risk Areas
by Ark Safety | Jan 22, 2025 | Hi-Vis
When it comes to safety at work, hi-vis overalls are not merely a precaution; they are a necessity to protect workers who are active in high-risk areas.
For construction managers and safety officers in Ireland, who are responsible for enforcing safety regulations on construction sites and within industrial environments where visibility is paramount, ensuring this vital piece of kit is readily available to teams is integral.
In this article, we discuss the topic in more detail, simplifying the procurement process for those looking for a nudge in the right direction.
Understanding hi-vis overalls
As the name suggests, hi-vis overalls are designed to make the wearer highly visible with the use of bright, fluorescent materials and reflective tapes. These overalls are vital in environments where workers are at risk from moving vehicles and equipment.
The science behind the high-visibility feature is based on the principle of retroreflection, which helps the human eye perceive light in low-light conditions by returning the light to its source.
Regulatory requirements in Ireland
In Ireland, high-visibility clothing is classified as personal protective equipment (PPE) and as such, should adhere to the requirements laid out in the European Union (Personal Protective Equipment) Regulations 2018. These regulations stipulate that the items should be CE marked, and should make the wearer visible to others.
It is also vital that hi-vis safety wear used within high-risk work environments adheres to the I.S. EN ISO 20471:2013 & A1:2016 safety standard, which divides hi-vis garments into three different categories and specifies performance requirements for the protective clothing in question.
Hi-vis overalls versus other safety wear
While other forms of hi-vis safety wear, such as jackets and vests, are hugely important and frequently used across a variety of industrial work settings, overalls offer comprehensive protection due to their extensive coverage.
Overalls are particularly beneficial in conditions that require additional protection against environmental and occupational hazards, making them an indispensable choice for many sectors.

Selection criteria for hi-vis overalls
When choosing the type of overalls for a specific team or environment, it’s crucial to be mindful of several important factors. Here are some key features to look for in hi-vis overalls:
- Material – opt for durable fabrics that can withstand harsh work conditions.
- Visibility level – ensure the garment meets the minimum visibility requirements as per Irish standards.
- Durability – choose overalls that promise longevity even with regular use.
How to choose the right hi-vis overalls for different work environments
To select the right hi-vis overalls for a particular set of circumstances, the first consideration should involve the specific risks associated with the work environment in question. For example, waterproof materials may be necessary for outdoor work, while flame-retardant overalls are essential in fire-risk areas.
Maintenance and care of hi-vis overalls
Preserving the integrity of hi-vis overalls is crucial for maintaining their safety function throughout their lifespan.
Regular cleaning, proper storage and immediate repairs to any damage can extend the wearability and effectiveness of these critical safety garments.
Addressing common concerns with hi-vis safety workwear
While hi-vis safety wear is imperative in a range of potentially dangerous settings, both workers and employers will oftentimes have certain qualms over its use. These misgivings usually fall under three main categories: comfort, cost and compliance.
- Those with comfort concerns should be reassured that modern hi-vis overalls are designed with both safety and comfort in mind, ensuring workers can perform tasks without restriction.
- Employers with doubts over the expense associated with high-quality hi-vis items should be aware that investing in these overalls reduces the frequency of replacement, while simultaneously protecting against potential accident-related costs.
- When it comes to compliance, this can be promoted by engaging workers in safety training sessions to highlight the life-saving importance of wearing hi-vis overalls. Continuous education on the importance of high visibility promotes a culture of safety compliance, and employers can further bolster these efforts by implementing regular safety audits and providing incentives for adherence to safety protocols.

Elevate workplace safety with hi-vis overalls from Ark Safety
Encouraging the use of hi-vis overalls is more than a regulatory requirement; it displays a commitment to safeguarding the lives of employees.
At Ark Safety, we offer a comprehensive range of hi-vis overalls to support this mission. Our products cater to various industrial needs, ensuring that every worker is visible and protected.
Contact us today for advice and guidance on enhancing workplace safety through the adoption of high-quality hi-vis overalls.