AS/NZS 1906.4:2010
Visibility saves lives. Whether working near moving vehicles, on offshore rigs, or in high-risk construction zones, workers must be seen to stay safe. AS/NZS 1906.4:2010 sets the requirements for high-visibility and retro-reflective materials used in safety garments.
This standard ensures that garments signal a wearer’s presence under varying light and weather conditions — from bright daylight to low-light or nighttime environments.
Scope of AS/NZS 1906.4:2010
The standard applies to:
- Fluorescent materials for high daytime visibility
- Retro-reflective materials for night and low-light conditions
- Combined materials that meet both requirements
It specifies photometric and colorimetric properties, ensuring consistent brightness, reflectivity, and color performance across different conditions.
Classes of high-visibility materials
AS/NZS 1906.4 defines multiple classes of materials based on their performance:
| Class | Description | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Class F | Fluorescent material for high daytime visibility | Outdoor work in daylight conditions |
| Class F (W) | Fluorescent material tested for wet weather | Daytime outdoor work in rain/wet conditions |
| Class R | Retro-reflective material for low-light or nighttime visibility | Roadworks, night operations, offshore decks |
| Class RF | Combined retro-reflective and fluorescent material | Protection across both day and night |
| Class NF | High-visibility non-fluorescent material | Specialized use where non-fluorescent materials are required |
Class RF garments offer the broadest coverage, ensuring visibility both day and night.
When AS/NZS 1906.4 Matters
High-visibility clothing is a critical element of personal protective equipment across industries:
- Maritime & Offshore – reflective gear ensures workers are visible on decks and in emergency evacuations.
- Petrochemical – high-visibility garments reduce accident risks around moving equipment and vehicles.
- Construction – essential for roadside works, cranes, scaffolding, and heavy machinery zones.
By defining strict visibility classes, AS/NZS 1906.4 ensures garments meet consistent performance levels across environments and weather conditions.