How to Clean and Maintain Your High-Vis Workwear.

High-visibility safety apparel (HVSA) is an indispensable line of defense for highway construction workers, traffic controllers, and railway crews. However, improper washing routines can rapidly degrade the microscopic glass bead retroreflective tape and dull the fluorescent background dye.

Golden Rules for Industrial Laundering

• Water Temperature: Wash in cold or lukewarm water (max 40°C / 104°F) to avoid melting microscopic resin bonds in the reflective tape.
• Detergent Selection: Use neutral pH detergents without bleach, chlorine, optical brighteners, or fabric softeners.
• Cycle Aggression: Turn garments inside out and close all hook-and-loop closures to eliminate abrasive contact with reflective bands.
• Drying Method: Line dry whenever possible, or tumble dry on the lowest delicate setting.

Inspection and Retirement Criteria

CSA Z96 and ANSI/ISEA 107 stipulate that once fluorescent pigments fade below the threshold of daytime contrast or retroreflective tape exhibits cracking across more than 20% of its surface, the garment must be retired from hazardous active zones immediately.