Are You Wearing the Right Hi Vis for Day and Night Work

High visibility (Hi Vis) workwear isn’t just about looking professional—it’s a critical safety requirement for many industries. Whether you work on a construction site, roadside, warehouse, or in logistics, the right Hi Vis gear keeps you visible and safe in all conditions.

But did you know that not all Hi Vis workwear is suitable for both day and night work? Wearing the wrong type could compromise your safety and even put you at risk of breaching workplace regulations. Let’s break it down so you can make the right choice.

Understanding Hi Vis Classes

In Australia, Hi Vis garments must comply with the AS/NZS 4602.1:2011 standard, which outlines the requirements for high visibility safety garments. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Day-Only Hi Vis

• Designed for visibility in daylight conditions.

• Features bright fluorescent fabrics in colors like yellow, orange, or lime.

• No reflective tape is required.

• Commonly used in industries such as construction, landscaping, and warehouses during the day.

2. Night-Only Hi Vis

• Specifically made for low-light or nighttime conditions.

• Features retroreflective tape that reflects light from sources like vehicle headlights.

• The base garment color is often less important as long as the reflective tape is correctly positioned.

3. Day/Night Hi Vis

• The most versatile option, offering fluorescent fabrics for daytime visibility and reflective tape for night visibility.

• Ideal for workers exposed to varying conditions across a 24-hour period.

• Common for roadside workers, truck drivers, and emergency services.

Key Features to Look for in Hi Vis Workwear

• Color Compliance: Fluorescent yellow or orange are standard colors recognized for visibility.

• Reflective Tape Positioning: Should be around the torso and sleeves or legs for maximum visibility.

• Material Quality: Lightweight, breathable fabrics keep you comfortable in all weather conditions.

• Fit and Functionality: Consider workwear with extra pockets, zippers, and water-resistant features if needed.

Why the Right Hi Vis Matters

Wearing the correct Hi Vis gear isn’t just a box to tick—it can be a matter of life and death. The right gear ensures:

• Maximum visibility at all times.

• Compliance with Australian standards, avoiding penalties.

• Enhanced safety for you and your co-workers.

At Motoman Industrial Wear, we offer a diverse selection of Hi Vis workwear from top-quality brands. Here are a few of our popular options:

Bisley BKL6818T Women's Taped Hi-vis Fleece Jumper

• Premium low-pill polyester fleece
• Stretch reflective taped hoop pattern and biomotion taping on sleeves
• Oversized high neck cross over collar
• Paneled front with bust and waist shaping
• Two inseam hand warmer pockets
• Available in Yellow and Orange. 

 

 

Syzmik ZJ532 Men's Hi-vis 4-In-1 Waterproof Jacket

• Waterproof and fully seam sealed
• Waterproof rating 10,000mm
• Breathability rating 2,000mm
• Reversible vest zips into jacket and can be worn separately or combined
• Vest with warm fleece lining
• Innovative reflective panel on hood to increase visibility from a distance
• Concealed hood with unique clear panels to increase peripheral vision while wearing hood
• Storm flap with chin guard for comfort
• Two waist pockets with zip closure
• Reversible vest with two waist pockets
• Mobile phone pocket
• Embroidery access on vest and jacket
• Clear ID holder on chest
• Quick close tape adjustable cuff fasteners
• Available in Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy

 

FXD WP-7WT Women's Reflective Stretch Ripstop Work Pants - Navy

FXD WOMENS WP.7W TAPED STRETCH RIPSTOP WORK PANTS FEATURE AUSTRALIAN STANDARD COMPLIANT AS/NZS 1906:4:2023 SEGMENTED BIOMOTION REFLECTIVE TAPING, AND DOUBLE WEAVE FLEX HIP PANELS FOR SUPERIOR FIT AND MAXIMUM RANGE OF MOVEMENT.
THE ALL-NEW 2024 FXD WOMENS RANGE HAS BEEN JOB SITE AND WORKSHOP TESTED FOR FIT AND FUNCTION BY SOME OF THE BEST WOMEN TRADE AND CRAFTSPEOPLE IN AUSTRALIA AND THE US. EVERY PIECE IN THE RANGE HAS BEEN DESIGNED FROM THE GROUND-UP FOR FUNCTION, HIGH PERFORMANCE, AND GREAT FIT FOR WORKING WOMEN. THERE ARE 8 NEW STYLES AND 39 COLOUR VARIATIONS AVAILABLE.

 

Workcraft WW9010 Hi vis Bomber Jacket-Orange/Navy

• No.5 zipper at center front
• Fully Seam Sealed Waterproof – 12000mm
• 50 domestic wash reflective tape
• Breathable – 3000mvp
• Bio-Motion configuration
• Quilted lined
• Side hand warmer pockets and LHS internal pocket
• Knitted rib at collar, cuff and hem
• Concealed Hood
• Embroidery access at LHS side seam – internal access
• Day/Night Use
• Garment Complies AS/NZS 4602.1:2011
• Suitable for NSW rail

 

KingGee K55057 Reflective 1/4 Zip Fleece X Back-Orange

The go-to winter warmer. The Hi-Vis 1/4 Zip Fleece features a large kangaroo pocket and ribbed cuffs and waist, ensuring a perfect fit and keeping you warm through the coldest weather.

• Front Kangaroo pocket
• Welt phone pocket & Twin pen pocket on sleeve
• Stand collar with 1/4 zip neck opening
• Rib hem and cuff
• Stretch 50mm ReflecTEC tape
• X back tape configuration

 

Syzmik ZW720 Women's Rugged Cooling Taped Hi Vis Spliced Shirt

• Mesh venting to increase breathability in the under arm, upper back and back side seam
• Mechanical stretch to give you more freedom of movement
• Tailored feminine fit
• Two Chest pockets with pen partition
• Breathable reflective tape in hoop configuration
• Reinforced at all key stress points with bar tacks
• Available in Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy

 

KingGee K55033 Hi-vis Pull Over Hoodie

The go-to winter warmer. The Hi-Vis Fleece Work Hoodie features a large kangaroo pocket and ribbed cuffs and waist, ensuring a perfect fit and keeping you warm through the coldest weather.

• Front kangaroo pocket
• Welt phone pocket
• 3 piece hood with drawstring
• Rib hem and cuff
• Available in Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy

 

Bisley BP6999T 3m Biomotion Double Taped Cool Lightweight Utility Pants

• Reflective biomotion tape
• Eyelet ventilation between legs
• Double layered knee for durability
• Two angled side pockets
• Coin pocket on right hand side
• Utility pocket with pen division and touch tape closure on right hand side
• Cargo pocket with gusset and touch tape flap on left hand side
• YKK zipper

 

Syzmik ZT867 Unisex Streetworx Water Resistant Hoodie with Segmented Tape

• Water resistant fabric offers protection from the rain
• Segmented tape for comfort and freedom of movement
• Warm soft fleece fabric to keep you warm on the coldest days
• Contrast arm pocket with zip closure
• Kangaroo pockets with zip closures to safely store all your items
• Pencil pocket on arm
• 2 Pockets on side hip
• Heavy weight rib on cuff and hem for durability
• Water resistant treatment is ecofriendly and PFC free
• Available in Yellow and Orange

 

FXD WO-3T Hi-vis Taped Soft Shell Work Jacket

FXD WO.3T HI-VIS TAPED SOFT SHELL WORK JACKETS ARE HIGH PERFORMANCE WATER AND WIND RESISTANT OUTERWEAR FEATURING 3-LAYER POLYESTER WITH A MEMBRANE AND A DURABLE PFC-FREE WATER REPELLENT FINISH.

•    High visibility class d/n: day or night use
•    Australian standard as 4602.1:2011 compliant
•    50mm segmented reflective tape
•    Biomotion hoop configuration 
•    3-layer polyester softshell with membrane
•    Wind and water resistant
•    Breathable
•    PFC-free durable water repellent finish
•    Jacquard elastic neck tape for next-to-skin comfort
•    Contrast brushed fleece backer for warmth and comfort
•    Articulated sleeves for ease of movement
•    YKK™ front chest pocket zip
•    YKK™ front zip with chin protector
•    Drop tail for additional weather protection and warmth
•    Shaped sleeve hem with internal logo elastic cuff
•    3M™ reflective logo at sleeve
•    Contrast reflective back yoke strip
•    Tonal sleeve and back hem transfer prints
•    50+ UPF protection
•    Sizes S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
•    Colours orange hi-vis and yellow-hi vis

 

Bisley BSH1008T Taped Stretch Cotton Drill Short Shorts-Navy

• Reflective tape
• Stretch fit with curved waistband to prevent gaping at back
• Two angled side pockets
• Two back patch pockets
• Coin pocket on right hand side
• YKK zipper
• In leg length 13.5cm / 5.5 inches
• Bisley exclusive Fresche® antimicrobial treatment to prevent against bacteria, mould and viruses

Flamebuster FSV014A Torrent HRC2 Men's Hi vis Two Tone Front Shirt With FR Reflective Tape

• Two front pockets with concealed heat resistant press studs
• Full gusset sleeves with concealed heat resistant press stud
• Left chest pocket with pen divide
• Chest pockets with bellow at the hem
• Concealed placket with urea buttons
• Gas detector loops at shoulder
• Twin needle stitching with reinforced stress points
• Day/Night Use
• FR perforated reflective tape
• Domestic wash
• Garment complies AS/NZS 4602.1:2011
• ATPV 8+ CAL/cm2
• HRC 2 inherent protection
• Available in Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy

 

Bisley BKL6571 Women’s Hi Vis Liquid Repellent Fleece Hoodie

• Premium polyester low pill fleece with liquid repellent finish
• Shaped hood with contrast internal lining
• Internal rib collar for extra comfort
• 1/2 zip
• Front inseam welt pockets with waterproof zippers
• Elasticated sleeve cuff
• Available in Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy

 

Workcraft WV7001 Day/night Hi vis Safety Vest

• Contrast binding
• Hook and loop closure
• Day/night use
• 25 domestic wash reflective tape
• Garment complies AS/NZS 4602.1:2011
• Available in Yellow and Orange. 

 

Hard Yakka Y08604 Women's Long Sleeve Hi Vis Taped Polo

Women's long sleeve regular fit Hi vis day compliant polo with UPF 50+ rating and moisture wicking to keep you cool on a worksite. This polo has segmented reflective tape for day and night visibility. This polo is in a Women's specific fit.

• Regular fit
• Long sleeve
• Single chest pocket with pen partition
• Knitted rib collar and sleeve cuff
• Front placket and button closure
• Hi vis day and night compliant to AS 4602.1:2011
• 50mm segmented reflective tape for day and night visibility
• With Moisture management wicking
• Soft hand feel
• UPF 50+ Rating
• Available in Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy

 

KingGee K53013 Men's Workcool Pro Bio Motion Cuff Pant-Navy

Created with breathable fabric and innovative venting, the Workcool Pro Bio Motion Pants will perform in all conditions. With 50mm of segmented ReflecTec Biomotion taping, and multifunctional pocketing, these men's workpants are a staple for any job site.

• Comfort stretch waistband
• Stretch ripstop fabric for comfort
• Behind the knee cooling vents
• 9 multifunctional pockets
• Cuff hem for dirt protection

Bisley BJ6078T Taped Two Tone Hi Vis 3 In 1 Soft Shell Jacket

• Showerproof fabric with breathable membrane
• Waterproof rating: Up to 7,500mm H20
• Reflective taped hoop pattern with shoulder tape and biomotion taping on sleeves
• Detachable zip-off sleeves
• Bonded internal fleece face
• Detachable zip-off shaped hood
• Two waist pockets with waterproof zippers
• Sleeve cuff adjusters reduce water entering over wrist
• Chin guard zip stopper
• Available in Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy

 

Syzmik ZW115 Men's Hi Vis Short Sleeve Shirt

• Lightweight 150 GSM cotton to keep you cool while you work.
• Under arm and upper back mesh venting.
• Triple stitched seams.
• Two chest pockets with button closures and pen partition.
• Available in Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy

 

Hard Yakka Y01055 Hi-vis 2tone Action Back Cotton Taped Overall

Stay seen in these hi-vis, mid-weight Action Back Cotton Drill Overalls that are tough, breathable, pre-shrunk and have function at their core.

• 50mm reflective tape suitable for light industrial wash
• Elastic straps & elasticized back waist
• Non-spill right chest pocket & left chest pocket with pencil partition
• Mobile phone pocket, reinforced pocket lining & two side pockets
• Heavy-duty nickel plated studs
• Available in Orange/Navy and Yellow/Navy

 

Syzmik ZC620 Men's Bio Motion X Back Overall White

• Compliant with Australian night time road work requirements with X back configuration
• Bio Motion tape configuration to improve recognition of human shape at distance
• Made from durable hard wearing cotton drill
• Two chest pockets with pen partition
• Two side hip pockets
• One back hip pocket
• Two side access pockets to reach your internal pant pockets
• Press stud closure

 

Bisley BS6807T Taped Night Cotton Drill Shirt

• Reflective taped X back with extra back hem tape and biomotion taping on sleeves
• Two button down chest pockets
• Pen division on left chest pocket
• Two piece structured collar
• Two button adjustable sleeve cuff

 

Bisley BJ6968XT X Taped Shell Rain Jacket

• Waterproof and breathable fabric
• Waterproof rating: Up to 20,000mm H2O
• Reflective taped X back with extra back hem tape and biomotion taping on sleeves
• All seams are seam sealed
• Storm flap with touch tape and zip closure
• Built in concealed hood
• ID pocket and pen loop
• Adjustable sleeve cuff with touch tape closure
• Available in White and Rail Orange.

AUS RAIL AS 7471:2019 & HI VIS DAY OR NIGHT AS/NZS 4602.1:2011/ADMDT2:2020 APPLIES TO RAIL ORANGE
COLOURWAY ONLY
HI VIS NIGHT ONLY AS/NZS 4602.1:2011/ADMDT2:2020 APPLIES TO WHITE COLOURWAY ONLY

Bisley BK6321XT X Taped 1/4 Zip Pullover

• Stretch reflective taped X back with biomotion taping on sleeves
• Poly/cotton low pill fleece
• 1/4 zip
• Two front in seam hand-warmer pockets
• Rib cuffs with thumb opening
• Elasticated rib knit hem

Bisley BPC6008T Taped Biomotion Stretch Cotton Drill Navy Cargo Pants

• Stretch reflective biomotion tape
• Stretch fit with curved waistband to prevent gaping at back
• Two angled side pockets
• Two back patch pockets
• Mobile phone welt pocket on back right hand side leg
• Coin pocket in waistband on the right hand side
• Seven reinforced belt loops
• YKK zipper
• Available in Navy and Khaki

Bisley BPC6335T Flx And Move™ Taped Stretch Denim Cargo Cuffed Pants

• Stretch reflective biomotion tape
• Stretch knit denim terry for extra comfort and movement
• Stovepipe cuffed style
• Cordura® highlights at high abrasive areas for extra durability
• Crotch gusset to prevent splitting
• Multi functional pockets incl. oversized cargo pockets and tool loops
• Double layer knee for extra durability
• Seven reinforced wider and stronger belt loops
• Internal draw cord inside waistband
• YKK zipper

Bisley BP6969T Taped Shell Rain Pant

AUS RAIL AS 7471:2019 & HI VIS DAY OR NIGHT AS/NZS 4602.1:2011/ADMDT2:2020 APPLIES TO RAIL ORANGE
COLOURWAY ONLY
HI VIS NIGHT ONLY AS/NZS 4602.1:2011/ADMDT2:2020 APPLIES TO WHITE COLOURWAY ONLY

Conclusion: Stay Safe, Stay Visible

Choosing the right Hi Vis gear depends on when and where you work. If you work only during daylight, day-only Hi Vis might be enough. But for night work or mixed conditions, always go for Day/Night Hi Vis to ensure complete protection.

At Motoman Industrial Wear, we stock a wide range of Hi Vis jackets, vests, hoodies, and shirts from leading brands like Bisley, KingGee, and Hard Yakka, all compliant with Australian safety standards.

Stay safe, stay visible, and make the right choice for your work environment.

For more information and to explore our extensive range of products, visit Motoman Industrial Wear.