How To Choose The Right ANSI Class Apparel?

How To Choose The Right ANSI Class Apparel?

Jay
3 minute read

How to choose the right ANSI class apparel for your safety apparel is typically performed by designated safety personnel for the business, often the Safety Director or Manager, who will make the determination on which ANSI level is needed. There is usually a risk assessment conducted to determine the work environment and safety required. Class III, the highest safety rating, can be selected by default for all high visibility needs, or as a safety precaution.

Founded in 1918, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is a private, non-profit organization that administers and coordinates the U.S. voluntary standards and conformity assessment system. ANSI works in close collaboration with stakeholders from industry and government to identify and develop standards- and conformance-based solutions to national and global priorities.

Can cotton be used for ANSI compliance?

The standards for ANSI 107-2010 require a compliant background material of florescent lime or orange. The natural fibers of cotton will not hold lime or orange dye initially, and it will quickly wash off. A 50/50 cotton to polyester mix is often called "safety green" or "safety orange" however these garments will not meet the ANSI requirements, even with the addition of the appropriate retroreflective materials.

ANSI lime-yellow and orange hi-vis safety vests

Why is the lime-yellow color used more in the United States?

Simply put, lime is easier to see than orange and provides better visibility in a cluttered work area. Also red/green colorblind individuals see orange as black in limited light, roadway conditions.
Orange is commonly used for barricades and other roadway objects. At low visibility, orange is preferred to differentiate the worker from the roadway environment.

What colors can I choose from for ANSI garment use in the United States?

ANSI has approved lime-yellow, and orange for use in the United States.

Can I personalize or use a logo on ANSI apparel?

Business often like the professional appearance or brand identity of adding logos or personalized insignia. Logos and personalization can help with theft and shrinkage; however, the size of the personalization or logo must take into account the area of background material necessary for safety and compliance or it could lead to non-compliant standards.

How should ANSI garments be washed?

You can use a machine wash for ANSI garments, just be sure to use the gentle and cold or warm water setting, turn your garment inside out and only use traditional laundry detergent. Do not use fabric softeners or bleach as they will harm ANSI apparel. It is best to line dry to prevent fading.


What colors can I choose from for ANSI garment use in the United States?

ANSI has approved lime-yellow, and orange for use in the United States.

Direct Textile Store offers a wide-range of safety apparel and protection including ANSI and non-ANSI economy safety vests, rain wear, head protection, disposable face masks, reusable face masks, ERB safety vests, reflective safety vests, mesh safety vests, safety helmets, and first aid kits.

Direct Textile Store ships to all US states, including Alaska and Hawaii, US Territories, Canada, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and St. Croix.

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