Hi Vis Coveralls & Overalls

Overalls vs Coveralls: What's the Difference?

In British workwear terminology, "overalls" and "coveralls" are interchangeable – both describe the same one-piece full-body garment covering you from shoulders to ankles with integrated sleeves and trouser legs. "Overalls" is traditional British usage; "coveralls" has American influence but is widely understood across the UK. Both terms refer to EN ISO 20471 Class 3 certified garments designed for maximum visibility and complete protection. Bib and brace overalls are different: they cover only your legs and chest with adjustable shoulder straps, leaving your arms free and requiring a separate hi vis shirt or jacket for upper body visibility.

Class 3 Certification and Railway Orange Requirements

EN ISO 20471:2013 Class 3 certification requires 0.80m² of fluorescent background material and 0.20m² of reflective tape – the highest visibility classification. Products in this collection include Class 3 certified options with reflective tape positioned on sleeves, trouser legs, torso, and shoulders for 360-degree visibility when you're standing, bending, kneeling, or reaching. Orange hi vis overalls meeting Network Rail's RIS-3279-TOM specification are mandatory for railway infrastructure work because train drivers need maximum visibility distance to signal warnings (trains can't stop quickly). Yellow remains standard for highways maintenance, building sites, and general industrial applications. Check individual product listings for exact colour options and certification details.

Specialist Coverall Types: Waterproof, Flame Retardant, Anti-Static

Hi vis waterproof overalls combine breathable membrane technology (typically 5,000-10,000mm hydrostatic head with 3,000-5,000g/m²/24hrs breathability) and fully taped seams to keep you dry whilst maintaining reflective performance in rain. Many models meet EN 343 Class 3:2 standards; verify exact ratings on the product page. Flame retardant hi vis coveralls for welding and hot work use inherently flame-resistant fabrics tested to EN ISO 11612 – typical ratings are A1+A2 (limited flame spread), B1 (convective heat), C1 (radiant heat). These fabrics won't melt or continue burning when exposed to sparks or molten metal splash. Anti-static options meeting EN 1149-5 use conductive fibres woven throughout to dissipate static electricity safely – essential in petrochemical facilities, grain silos, and explosive atmospheres.

Care, Durability and When to Replace

Wash hi vis coveralls at 60°C maximum to kill bacteria whilst preserving fluorescent dyes and reflective properties. Avoid bleach and fabric softener – both degrade reflective tape and fade fluorescent colour faster. Full-length front zips should be heavy-duty YKK or similar quality with storm flaps covering the zip teeth to prevent snagging. Elasticated waists and cuffs provide secure fit whilst preventing dirt entering the garment. Replace coveralls after 50 industrial washes or when: • Reflective tape shows cracking or peeling • Fluorescent colour fades significantly (hold against a new garment to compare) • Fabric develops holes or tears that compromise protection. The most common mistake? Continuing to use faded coveralls that no longer meet Class 3 area requirements – if the fluorescent material has dulled noticeably, visibility distance drops and certification is compromised.