CSA Z96 Classes Explained: What Hi-Vis Do You Need?

A CSA hi-vis label can look like code. Read it in this order: edition, class, then level.

• Edition identifies the version of CSA Z96 used to test the garment.
• Class describes the amount and placement of visible material.
• Level describes the performance of the reflective trim.

The province and job hazard assessment determine which garment is acceptable. Colour, class or level alone cannot answer that question.

What Do Class and Level Mean?

The shortest explanation is: class means coverage; level means reflection. They are separate ratings.

Label Part	Plain Meaning	Question It Answers
CSA Z96-22	Tested to the 2022 edition	Which standard edition was used?
Class 1, 2 or 3	Amount and placement of visible material	How much of the worker is made visible?
Level FR, 1 or 2	Reflective-trim performance	How strongly does the trim return light?

For example, CSA Z96-22 Class 2, Level 2 has three parts. The garment follows the 2022 edition, provides Class 2 coverage and uses Level 2 reflective material.

That label does not automatically mean the garment is flame resistant. It also does not prove the garment is correct for every road job.

What Does CSA Z96:22 Cover?

CSA Z96:22 is the current high-visibility safety apparel standard. It was published in 2022 and replaced CSA Z96-15.

The standard covers approved background colours, reflective performance, material placement, coverage, markings and testing. It tells manufacturers how a compliant garment must perform.

It does not set one clothing rule for every Canadian workplace. A province may name an older edition or use its own garment wording.

Employers must also assess traffic, equipment, lighting, weather and sightlines. These job conditions help determine the required garment.

How Do CSA Z96 Class 1, 2 and 3 Differ?

Class 1 has the least compliant coverage. Class 2 adds visible upper-torso coverage. Class 3 adds visible limb coverage so movement is easier to recognize.

Class	Simple Meaning	Common Garments	Possible Uses
1	Smallest compliant area, often in a reflective strap pattern	Vests, hoodies and dark-background coveralls	Controlled areas separated from moving traffic
2	Visible torso plus required reflective striping	Vests, shirts, jackets and parkas	Roadside, utility, survey and equipment work
3	Visible torso plus arm and leg bands	Coveralls or approved top-and-bottom sets	Complex traffic, poor light and obstructed sightlines

Possible uses are examples, not universal requirements. The regulation and hazard assessment determine the correct class.

What Does Class 1 Mean?

Class 1 provides the smallest compliant coverage area. It often uses reflective or combined-performance material in a strap-like pattern.

It may fit controlled work areas where workers remain separated from moving traffic. It should not be treated as automatic approval for road work.

What Does Class 2 Mean?

Class 2 adds compliant visible material around the upper torso. It is common where workers face vehicles, equipment or changing sightlines.

Being told to “get Class 2” is incomplete. The buyer must also confirm the edition, level, colour, fit and workplace rule.

What Does Class 3 Mean?

Class 3 provides the greatest recognized body coverage. It adds visibility around the limbs or uses a qualifying full-body garment.

This layout helps drivers recognize a worker's movement. Class 3 is not automatically required for every job and cannot replace traffic control.

How Do Levels FR, 1 and 2 Differ?

The level tells you how the reflective trim performs. It does not tell you how much of the body is covered.

Level	What It Means	What It Does Not Mean
Level FR	Reflective level used with an FR garment; trim may be 19 mm	The garment is automatically arc rated
Level 1	Lower reflective performance than Level 2; trim is at least 50 mm	The garment has Class 1 coverage
Level 2	Highest reflective performance; trim is at least 50 mm	The garment has Class 2 coverage

A Class 3, Level 2 garment is possible because the numbers measure different things. Class 3 describes coverage. Level 2 describes the trim.

Level FR is not a complete thermal-protection rating. Buyers must separately confirm the required arc rating, flash-fire certification or other thermal standard.

Why Is There an X on the Back of Canadian Hi-Vis?

The back X gives a driver a quick direction cue. An X means the worker's back is facing the driver.

Vertical front bands show the worker is facing the driver. These cues help drivers and equipment operators understand the worker's position.

The exact requirement still depends on the province and work activity. British Columbia also permits a limited modified Class 2 exception for certain emergency and enforcement personnel.

Which Hi-Vis Colours Meet CSA Z96?

Common compliant background colours include fluorescent yellow-green, fluorescent orange-red and fluorescent red. The colour must meet the standard's performance requirements.

Colour alone does not prove compliance. Material area, reflective trim, placement and the complete design also matter.

Some Class 1 garments use red, blue, black or navy fabric with a compliant stripe layout. That does not make every garment in those colours Class 1.

Before ordering, verify:

1. The exact model number.
2. The selected colour.
3. The stated class and level.
4. The applicable CSA edition.
5. The sewn-in label and current technical sheet.

How Do CSA and ANSI Hi-Vis Labels Differ?

CSA and ANSI labels answer different questions. A CSA class describes visible coverage. An ANSI type identifies the work environment.

Label	Plain Meaning
CSA Class 1	Smallest compliant coverage
CSA Class 2	Visible upper-torso coverage
CSA Class 3	Torso plus arm and leg visibility
ANSI Type O	Off-road work
ANSI Type R	Roadway and temporary traffic control
ANSI Type P	Public safety

Do not convert one label into the other. A CSA Class 2 garment is not automatically ANSI Type R, Class 2.

Some products list both standards. The Pioneer 6676 and 6677 vest has separate CSA and ANSI classifications.

Cross-border crews should verify both labels and the rule that applies at the jobsite.

Which Hi-Vis Rule Applies in BC, Ontario and Alberta?

Hi-vis requirements by province are not identical. Start with the provincial rule, not the garment label.

Province	What the Cited Rule Says	What the Buyer Should Do
British Columbia	Workers exposed above 30 km/h need Class 2 or 3. At 30 km/h or less, Class 1, 2 or 3 may be used. The rule names CSA Z96-15.	Check vehicle speed first, then select the permitted class.
Ontario construction	Section 69.1 prescribes an orange upper-body garment, two 5 cm yellow stripes, vertical front bands and a back X. Night work requires added arm-and-leg or equivalent side visibility.	Match the stated design. Do not rely only on a CSA class number.
Alberta	Section 194 requires hi-vis apparel for a worker on foot exposed to traffic. It does not name a CSA class or edition.	Use the hazard assessment and any other applicable rule to set the specification.

These are the cited general provisions. Industry-specific, traffic-control or workplace rules may add other requirements.

What Class Hi-Vis Is Needed for Road Work?

There is no single class for every Canadian road-work task. The answer depends on the province, traffic exposure and work environment.

Use this five-step check:

1. Find the applicable rule. Start with the province, industry and work activity.
2. Record traffic and equipment speed. Higher speeds leave drivers less time to react.
3. Check lighting and sightlines. Include night work, weather, curves, equipment and visual clutter.
4. Identify other hazards. Rain, cold, flame, arc and chemicals may require added protection.
5. Verify the exact garment. Match the model, colour, edition, class, level and configuration.

Class 2 is common for upper-body roadside work. Class 3 may be selected when greater body coverage or movement recognition is needed.

The applicable rule and hazard assessment make the final decision.

What Do Common Hi-Vis Terms Mean?

Term	Plain Meaning
Background material	The visible garment material that helps the worker stand out during daylight
Retroreflective material	Trim that returns light toward its source, such as vehicle headlights
Combined-performance material	Material that provides both fluorescent and retroreflective properties
FR	Flame resistant; it does not automatically mean arc rated
Documented combination	An exact top-and-bottom pairing confirmed to meet a stated class

These terms describe different parts of the garment or its approval. They should not be treated as interchangeable.

Which Products Fit Each CSA Class?

The products below show how class, level, colour and other protection can work together. Always verify the exact model and colour before ordering.

Which Products Meet Class 1?

Pioneer 337SF and 338SF FR Zip Hoodie

The Pioneer 337SF and 338SF FR zip hoodie is listed in CSA Z96-22 Class 1, Level 2 and Class 1, Level FR configurations.

The 12 oz FR-treated cotton, detachable hood and slash pockets support cooler shifts. Its ATPV is 22 cal/cm² with PPE Category 2.

This combination may remove the need for a separate basic visibility vest. The documented ratings must still match the site's thermal hazard assessment.

Atlas 2272 FR/Arc Surveyor Vest in Red or Royal Blue

The red and royal blue versions of the Atlas 2272 surveyor vest meet CSA Z96-22 Class 1, Level 2.

Ten pockets, a rear pouch and microphone clips keep field items accessible. The 8 oz cotton-nylon fabric is rated to 12 cal/cm² with PPE Category 2.

The orange version is Class 2. This colour difference shows why the exact variant matters.

Big K BK1804SP Cotton Coveralls in Navy

The Navy Big K BK1804SP Cotton Coveralls meet CSA Z96-22 Class 1, Level 2. They use 100% cotton with 4-inch 3M industrial washable reflective tape.

Four front pockets, two back pockets and a left-sleeve pen pocket keep small tools and notes accessible. Choose them for maintenance or industrial work where the hazard assessment permits Class 1 and an uninsulated cotton coverall suits the conditions.

The orange BK1700 is Class 3, Level 2. For flame or arc hazards, choose clothing with the required FR certification or arc rating.

Tough Duck ST08 Safety Work Shirt in Black or Navy

The black and navy versions of the Tough Duck ST08 safety work shirt meet CSA Z96-15 Class 1, Level 2.

Polyester birdseye mesh and segmented striping help release heat and moisture. Long sleeves add skin coverage, while the chest pocket holds small items.

The yellow and orange versions meet Class 2 instead. Buyers should verify the colour and label before ordering.

Which Products Meet Class 2?

Pioneer 6676 and 6677 1200D Surveyor Vest

The Pioneer 6676 and 6677 surveyor vest meets CSA Z96-22 Class 2, Level 2. It also lists ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Type P and Type R, Class 2.

Its water-repellent 1200-denier Oxford shell resists abrasion around brush, tools and equipment. Thirteen pockets organize radios, notes and survey equipment.

The heavier shell provides more durability than light mesh. It also adds more weight and warmth.

Viking Firewall 55679 Insulated Parka in Orange

The orange Viking Firewall 55679 insulated parka meets CSA Z96-22 Class 2, Level FR.

Its quilted modacrylic lining, wind barrier, storm cuffs and hand-warmer pockets help crews retain heat. The Westex FR shell is rated to 35 cal/cm² with PPE Category 3.

The navy and royal versions are Class 1, Level FR. Buyers must not assume every colour has the orange version's class.

Atlas 2272 FR/Arc Surveyor Vest in Orange

The orange Atlas 2272 surveyor vest meets CSA Z96-22 Class 2, Level 2.

Its 10-pocket layout organizes radios, documents and small tools. The fabric is rated to 12 cal/cm² with PPE Category 2.

The red and royal blue versions meet Class 1. Substituting colours changes the compliance result.

Viking Handyman 6328J 7-in-1 Waterproof Jacket

The high-visibility Viking Handyman 6328J jacket meets CSA Z96-15 Class 2, Level 2.

Its 300-denier shell, PU backing and sealed seams block wind and rain. The 250 gsm lining is designed for temperatures down to -30°C.

Seven wearing configurations help crews adjust the shell, liner and vest as conditions change. It is not flame resistant. Class 3 applies only when worn as the documented suit.

Which Products Meet Class 3?

Viking Firewall 40479 FR Coveralls

The Viking Firewall 40479 FR coveralls meet CSA Z96-22 Class 3, Level 2.

Arm and leg striping helps drivers recognize movement. The bi-swing back and elastic waist support reaching, kneeling and climbing.

The Westex FR fabric is rated to 12.4 cal/cm² with PPE Category 2. One garment can provide Class 3 coverage, storage and documented thermal performance.

Atlas 1076NB FR Two-Tone Coveralls

The Atlas 1076NB FR two-tone coveralls meet CSA Z96-22 Class 3, Level 2.

Eight pockets and three microphone loops keep tools and communications accessible. Regular and tall sizes help maintain the required coverage across more body types.

The 8 oz cotton-nylon fabric is rated to 12 cal/cm² with PPE Category 2. The one-piece design keeps the visibility pattern together.

Big K BK1700 Cotton Coveralls in Orange

The orange Big K BK1700 cotton coveralls meet CSA Z96-22 Class 3, Level 2. Their 4-inch 3M industrial washable reflective tape provides visibility around the torso, arms and legs.

The 100% cotton fabric and uninsulated design suit shifts where full-body coverage is needed without winter insulation. Four front pockets, two back pockets and a left-sleeve pen pocket provide storage for tools and notes.

Choose the orange version when the job requires Class 3 and the conditions suit cotton workwear. The navy BK1804SP is Class 1. Visibility certification does not replace the FR or arc rating required for a thermal hazard.

Pioneer 5512 and 5514 Hi-Vis Safety Coveralls

The yellow Pioneer 5512 and orange Pioneer 5514 safety coveralls meet CSA Z96-22 Class 3, Level 2.

Their 7 oz poly-cotton fabric provides a lighter option than insulated or FR coveralls. An action back, elastic waist and adjustable wrists support movement.

Seven storage pockets and two pass-through pockets keep tools accessible. UPF 50+ fabric adds sun protection. The navy 5516 should not be assumed to carry Class 3.

Can Separate Tops and Pants Create Class 3?

Only a documented combination should be treated as Class 3. Two reflective garments do not automatically form a compliant set.

Tough Duck S607 reflective cargo pants reach CSA Z96-15 Class 3, Level 2 only with a compliant Class 2 top with arm bands.

The pants add lower-body visibility, mobility and six-pocket storage. They are not a Class 3 garment when worn alone.

How Should Hi-Vis Workwear Fit?

The garment must remain visible while the worker bends, reaches or turns. It should fit over the clothing normally worn during the shift.

A tight garment can restrict movement or remain partly open. An oversized garment can catch on equipment or misalign the reflective pattern.

Jackets, backpacks and tools should not block the visible fabric or reflective bands. Check the complete work setup, not only the garment.

How Should Hi-Vis Workwear Be Inspected and Replaced?

Follow the care label. Harsh cleaning, incorrect drying or unapproved alterations can damage visible fabric and reflective trim.

Inspect the garment before use. Look for:

• Faded or permanently stained background fabric.
• Cracked, peeling or missing reflective material.
• Tears that break the required stripe pattern.
• Grease, mud or equipment blocking reflective areas.
• Damaged fasteners that prevent correct closure.

Replace the garment when cleaning no longer restores visibility. Replace it sooner when damage breaks the required pattern or closure.

Shop CSA Hi-Vis Workwear

Start with the regulation and job hazard assessment. Then compare the edition, class, level, colour and configuration on the product label.

Cleanflow supplies CSA hi-vis workwear from Atlas, Pioneer, Viking and Tough Duck. Options include vests, shirts, rainwear, winter clothing, pants and coveralls.

Shop CSA Hi-Vis Workwear