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.
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 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 must be at least 50mm wide. Bands of reflective tape must be positioned at least 50mm apart.
Reflective tape must be positioned 50mm or more from the end of sleeve or leg.
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.
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)
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)
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)
L.E.D: stands for ""Light Emitting Diode"", an L.E.D is a small piece of semi conducting material that contains various compounds. When electricity is passed through these semi conductive materials light is emitted in the form of photons. This process is call electro-luminescence.
An L.E.D light can produce the same amount of lumens as an incandescent while using only 25% of the power. Up to 90% of incandescent lights energy is heat created by electrical resistance filament (i.e they are more efficient as heaters than lights).
RoHS - Restriction Of Hazardous Substances’. The 'Restriction Of Hazardous Substances' directive is put in place to ensure all components of our electrical products will not endanger the user. All Portwest lights are tested to this standard with compliance.
CE - This symbol indicates conformity of essential health and safety requirements as set out in European directives.
This is a railway group standard that specifies the minimum specification for high-visibility warning clothing in the UK Rail Industry ensuring workers are conspicuous when on or near railway lines.
RIS-3279-TOM is based on the European standard EN ISO 20471. It defines the minimum areas of high-visibility orange background materials to be used within a garment and the minimum level of photometric performance criteria for the reflective tape. The standard requires a reflective tape reading of ≥ 330 (cd/ lx.m2), however Portwest insist on a reading of ≥ 400 (cd/ lx.m2).
RIS-3279-TOM imposes a higher concentration for high-visibility orange fabric for railway workers. This increases the conspicuous nature of the fabric and ensures the rail worker is more visible. A spectrophotometer is used to check the chromaticity (colour intensity) of the orange high-visibility fabric. Portwest check every roll of fabric to ensure the fabric meets the requirements of RIS-3279-TOM.
Stay safe and visible in all work environments with the Portwest Hi-Vis Versatile Vest in Orange. Crafted using high-quality HiVisTex tape and high-visibility fabric, this vest is designed to ensure you are seen in all conditions, be it daylight or low-light environments. An essential for professionals in various industries, including the rail industry, it boasts of a classic 2-band tape formation along with additional features that add to its functionality and comfort. Here are the details:
Key Features:
Unique Selling Proposition (USP):
Compliance:
The Portwest Hi-Vis Versatile Vest in Orange is not just a vest; it’s a safety companion designed to keep you visible and safe in all work environments. Whether you are in the rail industry or any other sector requiring high visibility attire, this vest promises to be a reliable choice. Equip yourself with a vest that stands for visibility, versatility, and comfort.
Specifications are subject to change - See Terms & Conditions for more info
Portwest has been independently rated by Ecovadis for its environmental, social, and ethical performance and achieved a silver rating, meaning they are in the top 25% of globally rated companies.
The pillars taken into consideration include the environment, labour practices and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement.
This product conforms with essential health and safety requirements as set out in European Directives.
This garment meets the rail industry standard for high visibility warning clothing.
This symbol indicates compliance with EN ISO 20471 after 50 washes (Minimum requirement under the EN norm is 5 washes).
EU Declaration of Conformity
