EN ISO 20471
High visibility
Back to overviewProtection through high-visibility clothing: EN ISO 20471 standard
EN ISO 20471 describes the requirements for high-visibility clothing for professional use. This clothing falls into risk class II. The number next to the pictogram indicates the class, depending on the minimum amount of fluorescent and reflective material.
What does EN ISO 20471 entail?
The standard specifies the minimum amount of fluorescent and reflective material a garment must contain. The higher the class, the better the visibility.
Example: Class 3: Minimum 0.8 m² fluorescent and 0.2 m² reflective surface.
Symbol and technical requirements of EN ISO 20471
The symbol is a vest with the number of the class achieved next to it.
Important difference with the old EN 471:
- EN 471 worked with two values (x and y).
- EN ISO 20471 uses one class (x).
The requirements for reflection have become stricter and now only apply in the highest class.
Where do you use EN ISO 20471 workwear?
This standard is mandatory in work environments with increased risk due to traffic or heavy equipment, such as:
- Road works (e.g., public works, infrastructure)
- Railways and airports
- Construction sites along busy roads
- Logistics and transport in high-risk areas.
Explanation of the requirements
Reflective bands must comply with:
- Minimum width of 50 mm.
- The interruptions may be a maximum of 50 mm long. In total, the interruptions may not exceed 100 mm around the torso and 50 mm around the sleeves and legs.
- The distance between the bands must be at least 50 mm.
- The bands must be at least 50 mm above the hem.
- The torso, legs, and arms must be covered all around (2x horizontally or 1x horizontally + vertically across the shoulders).
Fluorescent material must comply with:
- The torso, sleeves, and legs must be covered at least 5 cm all around.
- Interruptions by reflective bands are permitted.
- The ratio of front to back fluorescent material must be 50% to 10%.
Performance and design requirements of the standard
- Clothing must comply with EN ISO 13688 (general requirements for protective clothing).
- The fluorescent material must remain visible from all directions.
- Reflective strips must be placed functionally, not as decoration.
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