If you're working on UK construction sites — whether it's a commercial build in Birmingham, a railway job in Manchester, or roadside maintenance near Canary Wharf — one thing’s certain: being seen is a matter of safety. That's where the EN ISO 20471 standard comes in. It’s not some tick-box regulation; it’s about visibility that could save your life.
So, what actually is an EN ISO 20471 jacket? And why should every UK tradesperson take it seriously? Let’s cut through the noise.
What Is an EN ISO 20471 Jacket?
You’ve probably worn high-vis before — but not all high-vis gear is created equal. EN ISO 20471 is the European (and UK-adopted) standard that guarantees a piece of high-visibility clothing is actually fit for use in hazardous environments.
To meet this standard, a jacket needs to use a specific combination of fluorescent material and reflective strips. These components are measured and positioned to ensure visibility from every angle — not just the front. If your jacket doesn’t carry this certification, it may look the part but fail in real-life, high-risk conditions.
Why UK Sites Take It Seriously
Under UK Health & Safety law, employers must provide suitable PPE — and for many roles, that means an EN ISO 20471 jacket. It’s not about ticking boxes. It's about making sure you’re visible to plant operators, drivers, and machinery crews when visibility is low or site traffic is high.
Many UK firms won’t even let you on-site without certified gear. And rightly so — nobody wants to gamble with visibility on a busy job.
The Jacket Classes — And What You Actually Need
The EN ISO 20471 standard splits garments into three classes:
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Class 1: Low-level protection — fine for warehouse work
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Class 2: Mid-range visibility — suitable for most general site use
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Class 3: High-level protection — required for work near fast traffic or poor visibility
For UK builders, engineers, and trades operating outdoors or around vehicles, Class 2 or above is typically the minimum.
Our Pick of Proper Certified Jackets
If you want high-vis that’s functional, comfortable and legally compliant, these four jackets are all EN ISO 20471 certified — and they’re well-rated by UK trades.
Regatta Hi-Vis X-Pro Waterproof Shell Jacket – Class 2Perfect for British weather, this waterproof shell from Regatta offers lightweight protection without sacrificing movement. You’ll appreciate the breathable lining when you’re on your feet all day, and the taped seams mean you won’t soak through in a downpour.
Regatta Hi-Vis X-Pro 3-Layer Softshell JacketThis is ideal for trades who need something lighter but still weather-resistant. Flexible, breathable, and protective, it keeps you visible while letting you move freely. Whether you're loading vans, checking plans, or climbing scaff, it does the job without bulk.
Regatta Hi-Vis Pro Contract Dover JacketA warmer option — padded for colder months and well-suited to exposed sites. The Dover is a go-to for anyone who needs full EN ISO 20471 compliance plus weather defence. It's reliable, even on frosty early starts or wet winter afternoons.
Blackrock Hi-Vis Softshell JacketLightweight and durable, this one’s great for tradies on the move. It layers easily, won’t slow you down, and holds up well in varied UK conditions. You’ll see this one on everyone from electricians to highway crews.
What to Look for Before Buying
Before picking up a high-vis jacket, check:
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Does it say EN ISO 20471 on the label? If not, it’s not compliant.
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Which class does it fall under? For most UK work, Class 2 or 3 is needed.
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Is the reflective tape in good condition? It fades after heavy use and washes.
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Does it fit over your base layers? A jacket that’s too tight or short won’t get worn.
Don’t assume every bright yellow jacket will pass inspection — or protect you properly. Look for the certification. It matters.
If your job depends on visibility, don’t take chances. An EN ISO 20471 jacket is more than a safety measure — it’s peace of mind.
From scaffolders to delivery crews, and traffic marshals to builders - visibility saves lives. And in the UK, there’s no shortage of regulation-compliant gear. Just make sure you’re wearing the right stuff.
The four jackets listed above are trusted by professionals across the country and they’re all available now from Alex Direct.
