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.
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:
(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.
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)
InsulatexPro is Portwest's most advanced lightweight thermal lining with supreme warmth-to-weight ratio.
Three times warmer than standard insulation, the soft insulating fabric has millions of air pockets that trap air and body heat offering maximum protection in extreme cold and wet conditions without weighing the wearer down with excess weight.
The EV4 Hi-Vis Expedition Parker features dynamic stretch waterproof fabric with a high loft downlike fill to ensure unparalleled warmth and comfort. Its ergonomic design allows for an unrestricted range of motion, offering greater freedom of movement. Additional features include a longer back length, internal wind cuffs, snow skirt, internal braces, double stormflap with rain channel and a removable, adjustable hood for enhanced protection against the elements.
The EV4 Hi-Vis Expedition Parker features dynamic stretch waterproof fabric with a high loft downlike fill to ensure unparalleled warmth and comfort. Its ergonomic design allows for an unrestricted range of motion, offering greater freedom of movement. Additional features include a longer back length, internal wind cuffs, snow skirt, internal braces, double stormflap with rain channel and a removable, adjustable hood for enhanced protection against the elements.
The EV4 Hi-Vis Expedition Parker features dynamic stretch waterproof fabric with a high loft downlike fill to ensure unparalleled warmth and comfort. Its ergonomic design allows for an unrestricted range of motion, offering greater freedom of movement. Additional features include a longer back length, internal wind cuffs, snow skirt, internal braces, double stormflap with rain channel and a removable, adjustable hood for enhanced protection against the elements.
The EV4 Hi-Vis Expedition Parker features dynamic stretch waterproof fabric with a high loft downlike fill to ensure unparalleled warmth and comfort. Its ergonomic design allows for an unrestricted range of motion, offering greater freedom of movement. Additional features include a longer back length, internal wind cuffs, snow skirt, internal braces, double stormflap with rain channel and a removable, adjustable hood for enhanced protection against the elements.
The EV4 Hi-Vis Expedition Parker features dynamic stretch waterproof fabric with a high loft downlike fill to ensure unparalleled warmth and comfort. Its ergonomic design allows for an unrestricted range of motion, offering greater freedom of movement. Additional features include a longer back length, internal wind cuffs, snow skirt, internal braces, double stormflap with rain channel and a removable, adjustable hood for enhanced protection against the elements.
The EV4 Hi-Vis Expedition Parker features dynamic stretch waterproof fabric with a high loft downlike fill to ensure unparalleled warmth and comfort. Its ergonomic design allows for an unrestricted range of motion, offering greater freedom of movement. Additional features include a longer back length, internal wind cuffs, snow skirt, internal braces, double stormflap with rain channel and a removable, adjustable hood for enhanced protection against the elements.
The EV4 Hi-Vis Expedition Parker features dynamic stretch waterproof fabric with a high loft downlike fill to ensure unparalleled warmth and comfort. Its ergonomic design allows for an unrestricted range of motion, offering greater freedom of movement. Additional features include a longer back length, internal wind cuffs, snow skirt, internal braces, double stormflap with rain channel and a removable, adjustable hood for enhanced protection against the elements.
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 gold rating, meaning they are in the top 5% of globally rated companies.
The pillars taken into consideration include the environment, labour practices and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement.
This garment has print/embroidery access.
The zip can be opened from the top or bottom of the garment.
This garment features 10 pockets.
This garment is made of a high-performance breathable fabric.
This garment has taped waterproof seams.
This garment comes with a non-detachable hood.
Data Sheet
