Vest

Class 2 is the standard choice for most road construction, utility and warehouse work near traffic up to 50 mph. Choose Class 3 for traffic above 50 mph, night work or poor weather. A vest alone usually can't reach Class 3 because it doesn't cover the arms, so Class 3 needs a certified jacket, coverall or ensemble. Your site safety manager or contract has the final say.

No, not in arc flash or flash fire environments. A non-FR polyester or nylon vest can melt and stick to skin even if the FR shirt underneath is compliant. Use a vest that is itself FR-rated, such as Forge FR's FR vest, and wear it over FR shirts and pants that cover arms and legs.

Forge FR's Men's Hi-Vis Fire Resistant Vest is listed as ANSI 107 Class 2, ASTM F1506, NFPA 70E PPE and UL certified to NFPA 2112-2023. Its arc rating is ATPV 8.2 cal/cm² (HRC/CAT 2). Standards can differ by style, so check the standards section on each product page before you buy.

OSHA requires high-visibility garments for flaggers, but it does not name a specific ANSI class. OSHA's construction standard 29 CFR 1926.201 covers reflective garments for flaggers without specifying classes. The class usually comes from the MUTCD, your state DOT or your employer. On federal-aid highways, Class 2 or Class 3 is required.

Mesh vests breathe better and suit hot weather and warm indoor work. Solid fabric vests are more durable and warmer, and are often chosen for outdoor work in cooler months. Forge FR's collection includes mesh and solid styles, some with zip pockets, such as the Surveyor Zip Eight Pocket Vest. Pick based on climate, pocket needs and whether you need FR protection.

Measure your chest over the clothes you'll wear underneath, then compare with the size guide. On the FR vest, chest measurements run 44.5" (S) to 60.5" (3XL), and sizes go up to 5XL. If you layer over a jacket, consider sizing up. Forge FR offers free shipping and a 15-day satisfaction guarantee. Confirm the details in the Refund Policy.

Wash by the care label, and avoid bleach and fabric softener, which can reduce FR performance and dull reflective trim. Replace the vest when the fluorescent color has faded, the reflective tape is peeling or cracked, or the fabric is torn, burned or contaminated. A worn vest can stop meeting its ANSI rating even if it looks fine.