Overview
EN ISO 20471:2013 (ISO 20471:2013, corrected 2013-06-01) is the international/CEN standard for high visibility clothing. It specifies test methods and performance requirements for garments that visually signal a wearer’s presence to vehicle operators and equipment drivers in daylight and under headlight illumination at night. The standard covers colour and retroreflective performance, minimum material areas, placement, design classes and lab test procedures to assess durability and conspicuity.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Performance of materials: Photometric and colour requirements for fluorescent background materials, non‑fluorescent materials and retroreflective materials; evaluation both for new and after exposure.
- Retroreflection testing: Methods for determining retroreflective performance, including after physical exposure and wet conditions (see Annexes on wet performance and industrial wash procedures).
- Design and classes: Garment types and three performance classes defined by minimum areas and placement of conspicuity materials - higher classes provide greater visibility (Class 3 gives the highest conspicuity against most backgrounds).
- Durability and ageing: Tests for colour fastness, dimensional change, mechanical properties and ageing (e.g., Xenon exposure, conditioning, wash tests).
- Sampling and test methods: Standardized sampling, conditioning and measurement procedures (colour determination, photometric measurement, retroreflection after exposure).
- Marking and manufacturer information: Requirements for labeling and information supplied with the garment to support correct selection and use.
- Risk assessment guidance: Advice on matching garment class and design to the intended risk environment, ergonomic considerations (fit, comfort, range of motion) and limitations of laboratory testing vs real‑world performance.
Applications and who uses it
EN ISO 20471:2013 is used by:
- Manufacturers and designers of protective and workwear to develop compliant high‑visibility garments.
- Testing laboratories and conformity assessors for type testing and certification.
- Procurement and safety managers in construction, road maintenance, emergency services, rail and airport ground operations who select appropriate garment classes based on risk assessment.
- Regulators and compliance teams, since the standard supports conformity with EU PPE directives (see Annex ZA).
Practical uses include specification of garments for roadside workers, traffic controllers, rescue personnel and any role where conspicuity to vehicle operators is critical. The standard also informs maintenance and care guidance to preserve visibility performance.
Related standards
- EN ISO 20471:2013 supersedes EN 471:2003+A1:2007.
- Annex ZA outlines the relationship with EU Directive 89/686/EEC (PPE requirements).
EN ISO 20471:2013 is essential for stakeholders focused on high‑visibility clothing, safety compliance, and measurable performance of conspicuity materials.
