Mandatory Use of Branded High-Visibility PPE

Date: 2026-02-13

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To reinforce the importance of wearing company-branded high-visibility PPE to mitigate hazards, ensure regulatory compliance, and promote a unified safety culture.

Introduction

This toolbox talk emphasizes the critical role of high-visibility PPE in maintaining a safe work environment. We will discuss why wearing branded high-visibility garments is mandatory, how it protects you, and its importance for compliance and company image.

Key Points

• Visibility and Hazard Mitigation: High-visibility apparel makes workers more visible to vehicle operators, especially in low-light and dark conditions. This reduces the risk of 'struck-by' incidents, a leading cause of fatalities in construction and other industries. The use of high visibility clothing is one important strategy in reducing the number of "struck-by" deaths on road construction sites. [4]
• Regulatory Compliance: Many regulations, including ANSI/ISEA standards and OSHA guidelines, mandate the use of high-visibility apparel in specific work environments. Compliance with these standards is not optional; it's the law. The ANSI/ISEA 107 Standard or "American National Standard for High Visibility Safety Apparel and Headwear. [4]
• Company Branding and Professionalism: Branded PPE enhances our company's image and professionalism. When everyone wears the same high-visibility gear, it presents a unified and safety-conscious appearance to clients, visitors, and the public.
• Proper Wear and Maintenance: To ensure effectiveness, high-visibility garments must be worn correctly. Vests and jackets should be closed, and garments should fit properly. Regular cleaning and replacement of damaged or faded PPE are essential. Garments should be worn properly, meaning they should be the right size for the person wearing it. [5]
• Employee Responsibility: Each employee is responsible for wearing the assigned high-visibility PPE whenever required, reporting any damage or wear, and participating in training related to PPE use and care. Employees must comply with job safety practices and proce- dures and PPE requirements that are relevant to the job site. [3]

Hazard Identification

Understanding the hazards that necessitate high-visibility PPE is crucial for maintaining a safe work environment.

• Low Visibility Conditions: Reduced visibility increases the risk of being struck by moving vehicles or equipment, especially during dawn, dusk, or inclement weather.
• Moving Vehicles and Equipment: Operating or working near moving vehicles and equipment poses a significant risk of collisions and run-over incidents. [4]
• Distracted Drivers: Even with high-visibility PPE, distracted drivers can fail to see workers, leading to accidents and injuries.

Control Measures

• Wear High-Visibility PPE: Always wear the provided company-branded high-visibility vest, jacket, or shirt in designated areas. Ensure the garment is clean and in good condition. [3]
• Maintain PPE: Regularly inspect your PPE for damage, fading, or dirt. Clean or replace PPE as needed to maintain its visibility and effectiveness.
• Stay Alert and Aware: Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards, even when wearing high-visibility PPE. Never assume drivers or equipment operators see you.
• Follow Site-Specific Procedures: Adhere to all site-specific safety procedures and guidelines regarding PPE use and work zone safety.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• High-Visibility Vest/Jacket/Shirt: Must be worn as an outer garment to provide 360-degree visibility. Garments and headwear worn by workers to provide increased conspicuity and visibility and that meet the performance requirements contained in ANSI/ISEA 107. [3] [4]
  • Ensure the garment is clean and not damaged.
  • Confirm it meets the required ANSI/ISEA Class standards.
• Hard Hat: Required in areas with overhead hazards. Protective Helmet [2]
  • Inspect for cracks or damage before each use.
  • Ensure it fits properly and is securely fastened.
• Safety Footwear: Necessary to protect against foot injuries from falling objects or sharp materials. Safety shoes or boots [1]
  • Check for wear and tear.
  • Ensure they provide adequate ankle support.

Emergency Procedures

1. In case of an accident, immediately stop work and assess the situation.
2. Provide first aid and call for emergency services if needed.
3. Report the incident to your supervisor and follow company reporting procedures.

Questions and Answers

• Q: What should I do if my high-visibility vest is damaged?

A: Immediately report the damage to your supervisor and request a replacement. Do not continue working with damaged PPE.

• Q: Are there any exceptions to wearing high-visibility PPE?

A: Generally, no. High-visibility PPE is mandatory in designated work areas. If you have a specific concern, discuss it with your supervisor.

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Wearing company-branded high-visibility PPE is mandatory for all designated work areas.
• High-visibility PPE protects against 'struck-by' hazards and ensures regulatory compliance.
• Proper wear, maintenance, and employee awareness are crucial for PPE effectiveness.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

Safety powered by SALUS