Which type of personal protective equipment (PPE) is required for roadway workers?

High-visibility clothing is essential for roadway workers to ensure they are easily seen by equipment operators and passing vehicles. The bright colors and reflective materials used in high-visibility apparel enhance visibility in various lighting conditions and environments, minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries. This type of PPE is particularly crucial in work zones where workers are in close proximity to moving traffic and heavy machinery, allowing for a safer working environment.

While safety gloves, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots are also important types of personal protective equipment that serve specific purposes, high-visibility clothing directly addresses the primary safety concern of visibility, which is critical in the context of roadway work where awareness of worker presence is paramount to prevent accidents.