Retroreflectometer

A Retroreflectometer is used to check the performance of retroreflective tape. Every roll of tape is tested to ensure it meets and exceeds the standard requirements. The retroflectometer measures the coefficient of two rotating angles. EN ISO 20471 states the reading should not be below 330 (cd/lx.m2) however at Portwest they insist on a reading of 400 (cd/lx.m2) plus.

Spectrophotometer

A spectrophotometer is used to check the chromaticity – “colour intensity” – of fabric. They use this to ensure every roll of fabric meets the requirements of EN ISO 20471 and RIS-3279-TOM.

RIS-3279-TOM

RIS imposes a higher concentration for high visibility orange fabric for railway workers. This increases the conspicuous nature of the fabric and ensures that the rail worker is more visible.

Reflective Tape

Reflective tape must be at least 50mm wide. Bands of reflective tape must be positioned at least 50mm apart.

Distance From Hem

Reflective tape must be positioned 50mm or more from the end of sleeve or leg.

All Around The Body

Reflective tape must encircle torso and/or limbs to be included in the calculation of the necessary square area of reflective tape. A gap (for fastening system or seam) in the band of reflective tape must be 50mm or less. The total amount of such gaps in every band must not exceed 100mm around the torso and 50mm around the sleeves and legs.

EN343 is the European standard that applies to garments worn in adverse weather conditions. This standard specifies requirements and test methods applicable to the materials and seams of protective clothing against the influence of precipitation (e.g. rain, snowflakes), fog, and ground humidity.

The pictogram to the left indicates that protection against rain is offered.

The standard provides for two performance parameters of which there are 4 levels with Class 4 offering the highest level of protection.

• X - Water Penetration Resistance (Waterproofness) 4 Levels
• Y - Water Vapour Resistance (Breathability) 4 Levels
• R - Readymade Garment; Rain Tower Test (optional)
  R may be replaced by an X if the test has not been carried out or is not suitable.

EN342 is the European standard that applies to garments worn in cold environments. This standard specifies requirements and test methods for the performance of clothing ensembles (i.e two-piece suits/coveralls) for protection against the effects of cold environments equal to or below -5°C.

There are three main parameters:

• A - Thermal insulation (this is tested using a full-size moving mannequin & measures the amount of energy required to maintain warmth)
• B - Air Permeability (This is a measure of how windproof the garment is), AP, Class 1-3 (where 3 is best)
• C - Water penetration (waterproofness) Class 1-2 (where 2 is best); optional test

(Example to the left refers to the Portwest Hi-Vis Bomber Jacket (S463) test results)

The manikin test measures the amount of energy required to maintain warmth. This result is expressed in square metres Kelvin per Watt (m2K/W) this result can be used to estimate the maximum wear time based on the activity level of the wearer, the temperature of the environment and insulation value of the garment.

For example (see chart to the left):

A person wearing the Portwest Hi-Vis Bomber Jacket (S463) performing light activity can withstand -2°C for 8hrs and -18°C for 1hr. A person performing Medium activity can withstand -18°C for 8hrs and -36°C for 1hr.

Class 3: Highest Level

Highest level of protection - required for any persons working on or near motorways, dual-carriage ways or airports. Must incorporate a minimum of 0.80m2 of background material  and 0.20m2 of retroreflective materials. (4 metres of 5cm wide reflective tape)

Class 2: Intermediate Level

Required for any persons working on or near A and B class roads, also for delivery drivers. Must incorporate a minimum of 0.50m2 of background material and 0.13m2 of retro-reflective material. (2.60 metres of 5cm wide reflective tape)

Class 1: Minimum Level

Minimum level of protection required for any persons working on a private road or to be used in conjunction with a higher classed garment. Must incorporate a minimum of 0.14m2 of background material and 0.10m2 of retroreflective material. (2 metres of 5cm wide reflective tape)

Made with 300 Denier 100% polyester yarn, this is a tough fabric for tough conditions. 300D fabric has superb abrasion and tear resistance. The double polyurethane (PU) coating on the inside makes the fabric durable and waterproof, and the outer has a water and stain repellent coating which helps keep the garment clean.