INDUSTRY

Utilities

Start with the task risk assessment, then define coverage, materials and storage for the work environment.

SELECTION FACTORS

Build the garment around the work.

Full-coverage garment options
Reinforced storage and closures
Finished-product documentation review

Product recommendations are starting points. The buyer’s risk assessment, intended use and final product documentation determine the approved specification.

REQUIREMENTS

Requirements and garment system for utility crews.

Utility crews work beside roads, near energized equipment and in changing weather. Roadside work within the right-of-way of a temporary traffic control zone falls under the MUTCD requirement for ANSI/ISEA 107 Class 2 or 3 apparel.

Where the hazard assessment identifies electric arc or flash fire, garments need flame resistance tested to standards such as ASTM F1506 or NFPA 2112 in the United States, or IEC 61482-2 and EN ISO 11612 in other markets. A hi-vis class does not make a garment flame resistant, and FR garments need FR-compatible tape, thread and trims.

Garments by role

Role	Typical garment	Why
Field technician	FR hi-vis shirt	Arc or flash-fire exposure
Substation crew	FR coverall	Full coverage
Roadside crew	Class 2 or 3 outer layer	Traffic exposure
Inspector	Hi-vis vest with storage	Forms, radio, camera
Cold-weather crew	Insulated jacket, FR where required	Outer layer carries class

Questions buyers ask

Do utility workers need FR and hi-vis together?

When the hazard assessment identifies both traffic exposure and arc or flash-fire hazards, yes. The garment then needs a hi-vis class and FR performance, confirmed for the finished configuration, with FR-compatible tape and trims.

Can a regular hi-vis vest be worn over FR clothing?

An outer layer worn over FR clothing should also be flame resistant, because a non-FR layer can ignite and keep burning. Use an FR hi-vis outer garment where both hazards apply.

Which standards cover flame-resistant work clothing?

Common examples are ASTM F1506 for electric arc and NFPA 2112 for flash fire in the United States, and IEC 61482-2 for electric arc and EN ISO 11612 for heat and flame in other markets. The hazard assessment decides which applies.