Branding high-visibility workwear

Select for the actual task

High-visibility clothing needs to suit the working conditions, wearer and other equipment used with it. Ask the person responsible for workplace safety to specify the requirements before choosing the garment.

Check the exact garment

Read the manufacturer’s current product information, applicable markings and instructions. A bright colour alone does not establish protective performance. Check that the selected size and garment combination meet your stated requirements.

Agree the branding position

Send the exact product reference, artwork, dimensions and proposed position to the team. Ask for the manufacturer’s decoration restrictions to be checked. Do not assume that covering fluorescent fabric or reflective areas leaves the garment’s protection unchanged.

Look after its function

Follow the garment’s care and inspection instructions. Keep required protective clothing in serviceable condition and report damage or loss of visibility to the person responsible for its use.

Information to include with the branding request

• Exact product reference, colour and sizes.
• The workplace protection or visibility requirement supplied by the responsible adviser.
• Any manufacturer documentation or decoration restrictions you have been given.
• Artwork, finished dimensions and proposed position.
• Other layers or equipment worn with the garment.

Why the position needs a separate check

A logo occupies part of the garment surface. On high-visibility clothing, the amount and arrangement of the relevant materials matter to its function. A large back design should therefore not be approved solely because it fits inside a general printing area. The permitted decoration needs to be checked for the exact item and required use.

For example, a company may want a large company name on the back and a small chest logo. Supply both positions together so the complete proposed decoration can be assessed. Checking the chest mark alone does not establish whether the complete branded garment remains suitable.

Before issuing the garments

Check the selected sizes, fit, fastenings and compatibility with other required equipment. Retain the supplied product and care information with the uniform instructions. Make clear who staff should tell if an item becomes damaged, heavily soiled or unsuitable. A decorative photograph in a catalogue is not a substitute for the documentation applicable to the actual product.

Sources and further reading

HSE — High visibility clothing