Sources
Reflective Clothing and Pedestrian Safety: The Science of Being Seen
www.sciencebuddies.org
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1
Using retro-reflective cloth to enhance drivers' judgment of ...
www.sciencedirect.com
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2
A systematic review on retro-reflective clothing for night-time visibility ...
research.polyu.edu.hk
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3
Be Safe, Be Seen - Reflective Wear | City of Lakeway, TX
www.lakeway-tx.gov
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4
Answer
Reflective clothing significantly improves pedestrian safety and visibility at night by enhancing conspicuity. Key findings:
- Retro-reflective clothing, especially when placed in a "biomotion" configuration on the joints and extremities, is most effective at increasing pedestrian visibility to drivers135. This takes advantage of the human visual system's sensitivity to biological motion.
- Retro-reflective clothing improves drivers' ability to accurately judge a pedestrian's walking direction when crossing the road at night2. This provides important cues for collision avoidance.
- The color, amount, and configuration of retro-reflective trim on clothing affects its conspicuity45. Bright colors and strategic placement on the sleeves, joints, and extremities are most effective.
- Reflective accessories like spoke clips, wristbands, and pedal lights that move draw drivers' attention more than static reflective clothing alone4.
- Wearing reflective clothing and using lights on bicycles is legally required in many areas for night riding4.
References
1. Reflective Clothing and Pedestrian Safety: The Science of Being Seen2. Using retro-reflective cloth to enhance drivers' judgment of ...3. A systematic review on retro-reflective clothing for night-time visibility ...4. Be Safe, Be Seen - Reflective Wear | City of Lakeway, TX5. High visibility safety apparel and nighttime conspicuity of ...
Author: MacMor Industries
Key insights
- High visibility safety apparel is a major component of workplace safety, allowing workers to be seen in any conditions, preventing serious workplace injuries.
- The nature of the work, work environment, lighting, and visibility are all important factors to consider when determining the need for high visibility safety apparel.
- The visual appeal of black garments with hi-viz may lower overall visibility, despite their popularity.
- Class 2 apparel is required when there are vehicles or equipment moving between 40 to 80 kilometers an hour, ensuring greater visibility for workers in different weather and lighting conditions.
- Class 3 level 2 apparel provides maximum visibility in very low light environments.
- FR treated fabrics lose luster after treatment, leading to limitations in visibility for flame resistant garments.