Warnweste

A Warnweste, or warning vest, is a sleeveless high-visibility garment designed to make the wearer more easily seen in low-light conditions or in daylight. It combines fluorescent fabric with retroreflective stripes to enhance conspicuity from a distance and to signal a need for caution in traffic or work zones.

Most Warnwesten are made from fluorescent materials such as yellow or orange polyester, with reflective tape on the torso and shoulders. They are designed to be worn over clothing and come in one size or adjustable fits; some models include pockets, a zipper, or velcro fasteners for closure.

In Europe, high-visibility PPE like the Warnweste commonly conforms to EN 20471, which defines performance classes (Class 1, 2, or 3) based on the amount of reflective material and the brightness of the background fabric. Older references used EN 471. In the United States, ANSI/ISEA 107 serves a similar purpose for high-visibility apparel, with class distinctions based on expected exposure and workload.

Common uses include road and construction work, warehouse and roadside assistance, emergency services, cyclists, runners, and event staff. The vest is intended to improve daytime visibility and provide a safety barrier in traffic settings or while performing duties near vehicles.

Regulatory practice varies by country. In several jurisdictions, motorists are required to carry a warning vest in the vehicle and wear it when exiting the vehicle on a road or highway in an emergency. Care and maintenance include washing according to fabric care labels (typically up to 40°C), avoiding chlorine bleach, and inspecting for faded fabric or damaged reflective strips, which should prompt replacement.

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