High Visibility in the Workplace: Why It Saves Lives Daily

High Visibility in the Workplace: Why It Saves Lives Daily
As we move into the darker, colder months of the year, workplace safety becomes even more critical. Shorter daylight hours, reduced visibility, and adverse weather conditions all increase the risks faced by workers across various industries. This is where high visibility (hi-vis) clothing and equipment play a vital role in protecting lives every single day.

At Knights, we believe safety starts with visibility. Hi-vis workwear is not just a compliance requirement, it’s a daily life-saving measure.

The Importance of Hi-Visibility
Hi-vis clothing is specifically designed to make workers stand out in low-light and high-risk environments. The fluorescent materials enhance visibility during the day, while reflective strips catch artificial light from vehicle headlights, torches, or site lighting at night. This dual-action protection ensures workers can be always seen.

According to the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slips, trips, and falls, as well as being struck by moving vehicles, remain among the most common causes of workplace injury and fatalities. In many of these cases, poor visibility is a contributing factor. The right hi-vis clothing can dramatically reduce these risks.

A report from the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work found that workers wearing hi-vis gear are up to three times more likely to be noticed by drivers compared to those without it. That simple fact can mean the difference between life and death.

Hi-Vis Essentials for the Workplace
Hi-vis equipment comes in a wide range of options to suit different roles, conditions, and industries. At Knights, we supply an extensive selection of hi-vis products to ensure your team is prepared, compliant, and safe.

Here are some of the most common items:

1. Hi-Vis Jackets
Ideal for colder months, hi-vis jackets combine warmth with safety. They are available in waterproof and insulated designs, ensuring workers stay protected from both the elements and hazards.

2. Hi-Vis Vests
Lightweight and versatile, hi-vis vests are perfect for layering over other workwear. They are widely used across construction, warehousing, and roadwork environments.

3. Hi-Vis Trousers
These offer full lower-body visibility and are particularly important for roadside workers, where drivers may only see the lower half of the body due to vehicle angles or obstructions.

4. Hi-Vis Coveralls
Designed for industries such as rail, utilities, and heavy engineering, coveralls provide full-body visibility and protection against dirt, sparks, and weather.

5. Hi-Vis Polos and T-Shirts
Breathable and comfortable, hi-vis tops are excellent for indoor or warmer conditions where heavy jackets may not be practical.

6. Hi-Vis Accessories
From gloves and hats to arm bands and backpacks, hi-vis accessories add extra layers of visibility where they’re most needed.

Standards and Compliance
It’s important to note that hi-vis clothing must comply with European Standard EN ISO 20471, which specifies requirements for colour, reflectivity, and coverage. Empl

Beyond Compliance: A Culture of Care
Hi-vis clothing is not just about ticking a compliance box; it’s about demonstrating care for your workforce. Providing proper hi-vis PPE signals to employees that their safety is valued, boosts morale and fosters a culture of responsibility.

At Knights, we don’t just supply products; we act as trusted advisors to ensure you choose the right solutions for your environment. From sizing and fit to fabric technology and durability, we guide you through the process, so your team gets the protection they need.

Conclusion
​Hi-visibility saves lives. Every day, in countless industries, it ensures workers can be seen, reduces accidents, and creates safer environments. As we move into the darker winter months, investing in the right hi-vis gear has never been more important.

Whether it’s a vest for warehouse staff, waterproof jackets for roadside workers, or full coveralls for rail engineers, hi-vis equipment is essential PPE that protects lives.

At Knights, we are proud to be trusted by the industry to supply, advise, and deliver the highest-quality hi-vis and PPE solutions. Because when it comes to safety, visibility is everything.

📞Talk to our PPE experts today about the right hi-vis for your team