What's the Difference Between Orange and Yellow Hi-Vis Clothing?

When it comes to workplace safety, high-visibility gear is an absolute must. It is crucial to be visible at all times, whether you are operating in a warehouse, on a construction site, or by the side of the road. The two most noticeable colors of high-visibility apparel are orange and yellow.

What's the difference between orange and yellow hi vis, though? Both are great at drawing attention to themselves, but there are a few key differences that might affect which one is best for your work and surroundings.

The Basics of Hi-Vis Clothing

Hi-vis clothing is made using fluorescent materials that make the wearer stand out during the day and reflective strips that make them visible in low light or nighttime conditions. The goal is simple — keep workers safe by ensuring they are seen clearly from a distance.

Fluorescent yellow and fluorescent orange are two of the most popular hi vis clothing colors. Despite their differences in application, all comply with safety regulations. Therefore, let's investigate the causes of that.

Hi Vis Yellow: Bright and Hard to Miss

The hi vis yellow color code falls into the fluorescent yellow-green spectrum. It’s extremely bright and works well in low light, fog, or cloudy weather. That’s why it’s often used in places with mixed lighting conditions or limited visibility.

Yellow hi-vis clothing is often worn by people who work in warehouses, airports, or cities. When put against dark backgrounds like asphalt, machinery, and warehouse walls, the color stands out the most.

There is a lot of hi-vis yellow used inside and on the roads during the day because it stands out so well in poor lighting.

Hi Vis Orange: Strong Contrast Outdoors

In the fluorescent red-orange g spectrum is the hi vis orange color code. This color creates a striking contrast in outdoor environments. Consider grassy areas, forests, and dirt roads—places where yellow might not be as obvious.

This is why many highway workers, emergency responders, and railway staff wear orange. The color easily catches attention when surrounded by green or brown environments.

The difference between orange and yellow hi vis is clearly noticeable when considering the surroundings. Orange often wins in outdoor settings with natural backgrounds.

Hi Vis Orange vs Yellow: How to Choose the Right One

When comparing hi vis orange vs yellow, it helps to think about a few key points:

1. Work Environment

The environment plays a big role in choosing between hi vis orange vs yellow. If you're working indoors or in an area with low light, yellow is usually better. It shines in dim conditions and offers better visibility against darker surfaces.

On the other hand, hi vis orange vs yellow in outdoor settings shows that orange tends to perform better where nature dominates. Green trees, brown dirt, or red bricks won’t reduce the visibility of orange gear.

2. Time of Day

Yellow frequently performs better in the early morning, evening, or cloudy conditions when comparing hi vis orange vs yellow during different times of the day. Orange might not stand out as much in fog or at night, but yellow does.

3. Industry Preferences

Different industries prefer different colors for good reasons. Railway and highway workers typically go with orange to contrast against standard road signs and barrels. In contrast, delivery drivers and city utility workers often use yellow.

This is another example of the difference between orange and yellow hi vis safety gear — the preferences are based on tried and tested safety needs.

Understanding Color Codes

Both hi-vis orange color code and hi vis yellow color code are based on ANSI/ISEA safety standards. These standards ensure the colors are bright enough to catch attention and reflective enough for nighttime use.

If your job requires ANSI Class 2 or Class 3 safety gear, rest assured that both orange and yellow options are available in those classes. Just make sure to check that your clothing meets the required specifications.

Visibility vs. Background Contrast

Contrast is a common factor in choosing hi vis orange vs yellow. The colour yellow tends to pop more against mostly black or grey backgrounds. Orange is more likely to stand out in a green or brown landscape.

The primary reason for the distinction between orange and yellow high visibility is the consideration of which colour will be most conspicuous in the specific working environment.

When in Doubt, Follow Safety Guidelines

Lots of businesses and industries have already figured out whether hi vis orange or yellow is better for teams. Hey, before you grab any new safety gear, just double-check your organization's safety rules or any local regulations, alright?

You can still make better decisions if you are aware of the difference between orange and yellow hi vis. Additionally, it sheds light on the reasons behind the colour preference in various work environments.

Making the Right Choice for Your Safety Needs 

It depends on several factors like your work environment, time of day, background colors, and industry regulations.

Both colors are effective, and both meet safety requirements. But knowing the difference between orange and yellow hi vis can help you improve safety and visibility for yourself and your team.

If you're looking for high visibility work clothes that meet the hi vis yellow colour code or prefer high-contrast clothing in the hi-vis orange color code, just remember to pick certified, trustworthy products!

Darman provides a large selection of hi vis clothing colours that meet industry requirements and keep your employees comfortable, safe, and visible while working.

Ready to upgrade your safety gear? Explore Darman’s collection of orange and yellow hi-vis clothing today.