ANSI Class 2 vs Class 3 Hi-Vis: Which Vest Does Your Crew Need?

ANSI Class 2 and Class 3 are the two main standards for high-visibility apparel in the U.S. Picking the wrong one is at best a missed safety opportunity, at worst an OSHA finding. Here’s a practical breakdown of which class your crew needs.

ANSI Class 2 — The Standard

Class 2 vests are required where workers are exposed to vehicle traffic moving up to 50 mph or where the work environment has higher-than-usual hazards. The vest has a minimum amount of fluorescent background material and reflective tape positioned across the torso.

Common Class 2 use cases: Roadway construction, parking lot work, school crossing guards, airport ground crews, utility workers in residential zones.

ANSI Class 3 — The Highest Visibility

Class 3 is required where workers are exposed to vehicle traffic above 50 mph, in low-light conditions, or where the work is high-risk. Class 3 has significantly more fluorescent material plus reflective tape on the sleeves and lower body.

Common Class 3 use cases: Highway construction, night work, emergency response, railway maintenance, heavy equipment operation.

How to Choose

Start with the OSHA/MUTCD requirements for your specific work environment. When in doubt, go up a class — the cost difference is small and the visibility upgrade is meaningful.