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.
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.
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)
This is the European standard which specifies the performance requirements for kneepads.
Below are 3 examples of specific tests conducted as part of the standard:
This test aims to simulate kneeling several times in quick succession. It involves a machine using a force of five joules of energy which strikes various parts of the knee pad five times within five minutes. The transmitted force (i.e. the residual impact not absorbed by the kneepad) is measured in kN. In order for the kneepad to pass, the mean average of the 5 tests cannot exceed 3kN and no single measurement can exceed 4kN.
This test is used to assess the performance level of a kneepad to protect the knee against objects. In order to pass the test, the internal surface of the kneepads must not deflect by more than 5mm when a particular level of force is applied.
| FORCE APPLIED | DEFLECTION | LEVEL |
| 100N | > 5mm | 0 |
100N | ≤ 5mm | 1 |
| 250N | ≤ 5mm | 2 |
This test is used to gauge how well the kneepads stay in position during use. This test is solely for Type 1 strap on kneepads. The straps must have a maximum width of 30mm and cannot stretch more than 40mm when a force of 10N is applied. This is to ensure that they stay in position and that they are not overly constrictive causing discomfort to the user. A type 1 kneepad is deemed to pass the restraint test based on feedback collated from test subjects.
Portwest's Texpel™ SOS - Splash, Oil, and Stain - is a premium fabric finish which repels oil and liquids, causing them to bead up and roll off the fabric surface. The finish also helps release stains in the washing process, keeping garments looking cleaner for longer.
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.
Portwest Extreme™ is a premium high performance rainwear fabric constructed from 100% Polyester, 300D Stretch Oxford 200g and offers superior comfort, function, and endurance in all weather conditions. Waterproof, breathable, and windproof to the highest standards, this fabric far exceeds the requirements of EN 343 Class 4:4.
The exterior fabric surface is treated with a Texpel finish to protect against water and oil stains, and the microporous fabric delivers exceptional stretch characteristics.
Portwest's HiVisTex™ Pro retroreflective tape offers excellent freedom of movement due to its segmented construction. Lightweight and flexible this high performance heat applied tape has thousands of glass beads per centimetre squared which work like thousands of tiny mirrors reflecting light back towards its source.
Introducing the Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black: a masterpiece of design ingenuity and textile technology. Created to cater to the demands of challenging work environments, this trouser offers unparalleled protection without compromising on style or comfort. With a state-of-the-art design that promises waterproofing, breathability, and contemporary aesthetics, it sets a new benchmark for hi-vis workwear.
Key Features:
The Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black stands as an epitome of Portwest's dedication to producing workwear that is not only functional but also fashionable. For those who prioritize safety, comfort, and style in their work attire, this trouser is the perfect choice.
Introducing the Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black: a masterpiece of design ingenuity and textile technology. Created to cater to the demands of challenging work environments, this trouser offers unparalleled protection without compromising on style or comfort. With a state-of-the-art design that promises waterproofing, breathability, and contemporary aesthetics, it sets a new benchmark for hi-vis workwear.
Key Features:
The Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black stands as an epitome of Portwest's dedication to producing workwear that is not only functional but also fashionable. For those who prioritize safety, comfort, and style in their work attire, this trouser is the perfect choice.
Introducing the Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black: a masterpiece of design ingenuity and textile technology. Created to cater to the demands of challenging work environments, this trouser offers unparalleled protection without compromising on style or comfort. With a state-of-the-art design that promises waterproofing, breathability, and contemporary aesthetics, it sets a new benchmark for hi-vis workwear.
Key Features:
The Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black stands as an epitome of Portwest's dedication to producing workwear that is not only functional but also fashionable. For those who prioritize safety, comfort, and style in their work attire, this trouser is the perfect choice.
Introducing the Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black: a masterpiece of design ingenuity and textile technology. Created to cater to the demands of challenging work environments, this trouser offers unparalleled protection without compromising on style or comfort. With a state-of-the-art design that promises waterproofing, breathability, and contemporary aesthetics, it sets a new benchmark for hi-vis workwear.
Key Features:
The Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black stands as an epitome of Portwest's dedication to producing workwear that is not only functional but also fashionable. For those who prioritize safety, comfort, and style in their work attire, this trouser is the perfect choice.
Introducing the Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black: a masterpiece of design ingenuity and textile technology. Created to cater to the demands of challenging work environments, this trouser offers unparalleled protection without compromising on style or comfort. With a state-of-the-art design that promises waterproofing, breathability, and contemporary aesthetics, it sets a new benchmark for hi-vis workwear.
Key Features:
The Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black stands as an epitome of Portwest's dedication to producing workwear that is not only functional but also fashionable. For those who prioritize safety, comfort, and style in their work attire, this trouser is the perfect choice.
Introducing the Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black: a masterpiece of design ingenuity and textile technology. Created to cater to the demands of challenging work environments, this trouser offers unparalleled protection without compromising on style or comfort. With a state-of-the-art design that promises waterproofing, breathability, and contemporary aesthetics, it sets a new benchmark for hi-vis workwear.
Key Features:
The Portwest PW3 Hi-Vis Extreme Trouser - Orange/Black stands as an epitome of Portwest's dedication to producing workwear that is not only functional but also fashionable. For those who prioritize safety, comfort, and style in their work attire, this trouser is the perfect choice.
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.
40+ UPF rated fabric to block 98% of UV rays.
This garment features 8 pockets.
This garment is made of a high-performance breathable fabric.
This features a half elastic waistband which allows for all-day comfort for the wearer.
This product has incorporated knee pad pockets that have been developed to carry Portwest's range of ergonomically designed knee pads.
This garment has taped waterproof seams.
This garment is padded to trap the heat and increase warmth.
Premium stain resistant finish repels oil, water, and grime.
Wash at a Maximum Temperature of 40°C using a gentle wash cycle
Do not bleach this item
This item must not be tumbled dried
This item must be left to drip line dry
Do not iron this item
Do not dry clean this item
This item can only be washed a maximum of 25 times
EU Declaration of Conformity
