What are the three types of EN 17353?
EN 17353 type A
Equipment to use where the risk of not being seen exists only in daylight conditions. This PPE uses only fluorescent materials.
EN 17353 type B
Equipment to use where the risk of not being seen exists only in dark conditions. Type B is subdivided in 3 levels and uses only retroreflective materials.
B1 includes free hanging retroreflective devices, designed for movement recognition.
B2 includes retroreflective devices or materials, either temporarily or permanently placed on the limbs only. They are designed for movement recognition.
B3 includes retroreflective material placed on torso, designed for form recognition, or retroreflective material placed on torso and limbs designed for form and movement recognition.
EN 17353 type AB
Equipment to use where risk of not being seen exists during daylight, twilight and dark conditions. This type AB is subdivided in 2 levels and uses fluorescent as well as the retro-reflective components.
AB2 combines fluorescent and retroreflective materials, focusing on the limbs, designed for movement recognition.
AB3 combines fluorescent and retroreflective materials, focusing on the torso and limbs, designed for form and movement recognition.
Summary of the EN 17353 enhanced visibility types
| EN 17353 type | Environment | Fluorescent surface | Retroreflective surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type A | Daylight conditions | 0.240 m2 | - |
| Type B1 | Dark conditions | - |
0.003 m2 |
| Type B2 | Dark conditions | - | 0.018 m2 |
| Type B3 | Daylight, twilight and dark conditions | - |
0.080 m2 |
| Type AB2 | Daylight, twilight and dark conditions | 0.240 m2 |
0.080 m2 |
| Type AB3 | Daylight, twilight and dark conditions | 0.240 m2 |
0.080 m2 |
FAQ
What is the difference between fluorescent and retroreflective materials?
The fluorescent fabrics that are used improve visibility in daylight conditions while retroreflective materials reflect light and improve visibility at twilight and at night.
How do I know which class I should wear?
The summary for each class will help you determinate the class you need but it's always best to do a full risk analysis.
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