The Push For Hi Vis Vests: A Safety Measure for Cyclists & E-Scooter Riders

Introduction

Hi vis vests not only enhance visibility on work sites, but they are also crucial to keeping cyclists and e-scooter riders safe on the road. Apparel such as hi vis jackets significantly increases awareness among drivers, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring vulnerable road users are more easily seen in low-light conditions.

In fact, with road safety becoming an increasingly critical issue, a new proposal is gaining support in Western Australia. In light of the concerning rise in road fatalities involving cyclists, the National Party is proposing that hi vis jackets be made mandatory for cyclists and e-scooter riders, with motions to lobby the government to require high-visibility apparel for cyclists and e-scooter riders on shared roads at all times for safety purposes.

Rising Road Toll

As reported by the ABC, Nationals MP and Deputy Leader Peter Rundle emphasised the importance of high-visibility clothing while noting the alarming rise in road fatalities across Western Australia. In 2023, five cyclists lost their lives on WA roads, marking a 32 percent increase over the five-year average. With cycling-related deaths on the rise, the push for high-visibility vests aims to improve safety for vulnerable road users.

Current Safety Regulations

At the time of writing, cyclists in Western Australia are mandated to use bike lights, reflectors, and helmets, particularly when riding at night or in low-light conditions, but there are currently no specific requirements for high-visibility clothing. The state government’s cycling safety website recommends the use of hi-vis apparel, such as vests, but stops short of making it compulsory.

• Australian Capital Territory (ACT): Police recommend that cyclists wear brightly coloured clothing to enhance visibility, but there are no mandatory regulations for high-visibility clothing.
• New South Wales (NSW): Cyclists must have a working light and reflectors at night. While high-visibility clothing is encouraged, it is not mandatory.
• South Australia (SA): Local guidelines suggest wearing bright clothing during the day and light-coloured clothing at night, but these are recommendations rather than mandates.
• Victoria (VIC): Cyclists are required to wear helmets and use lights when riding at night. High-visibility clothing is recommended but not enforced by law.
• Western Australia (WA): Cyclists must use lights and wear helmets, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions. There are no specific requirements for high-visibility clothing, though it is advised.

This inconsistency across the states further highlights the need for a unified approach to cyclist safety across all of Australia.

A hi vis safety vest is an incredibly important accessory to any cyclist or e-scooter rider, as it boosts your visibility, which in turn offers:  

• Enhanced Safety: Visibility plays a crucial role in accident prevention. High-visibility clothing significantly enhances the chances of being seen by drivers, particularly in low-light environments. By mandating reflective apparel, the goal is to decrease the risk of collisions involving cyclists and e-scooter riders.
• Shaping Public Attitudes & Accountability: The initiative for mandatory high-visibility clothing may change public attitudes toward cyclist safety, highlighting cyclists as proactive contributors to their own safety rather than mere victims of road conditions. Wearing bright, reflective gear can foster a culture of accountability among all road users.

• Improving Road Safety: Hi-vis vests and jackets are essential for enhancing visibility on the roads. Their bright colours and reflective materials make it easier for drivers to spot cyclists and e-scooter riders, particularly in low-light situations.
• Adapting to Different Environments: Whether cycling in bright sunlight or at dusk, hi-vis clothing helps maintain visibility across various lighting conditions, ensuring riders remain seen regardless of the time of day.
• Encouraging a Culture of Safety: Wearing hi-vis gear promotes a culture of safety among all road users. Cyclists and e-scooter riders set an example, encouraging others to prioritise visibility and awareness on the road.

You can browse the best hi-vis cycling vests in Australia here.

At Work Armour, we recognize the significance of safety for cyclists and e-scooter riders. Our selection of high-visibility workwear, including vests and waterproof hi vis jackets, is crafted for optimal visibility and comfort. Here are a few key features that help Work Armour’s hi vis clothing stand out above the rest:

• Quality Materials: Our hi-vis vests are constructed from durable, breathable fabrics that provide comfort during rides in any weather.
• Reflective Features: Equipped with high-quality reflective strips, WorkArmour’s reflective vests — such as the Hi Vis VicRoads Safety Vest — help improve visibility in low-light conditions, enhancing your safety on the road.
• Stylish Design: We believe safety shouldn’t sacrifice style. WorkArmour’s hi-vis workwear combines functionality with a fashionable look, and comes in a range of colour options.
• A Wide Variety: Whether you need a lightweight vest for warm weather or a jacket for cooler days, we offer a variety of options to meet your needs, such as the Mens Hi Vis Lightweight Waterproof Vest.
• Compliance & Peace of Mind: Wearing our hi-vis gear not only ensures your safety, but it also helps you comply with evolving safety regulations.

Conclusion

The push for mandatory high-visibility clothing for cyclists and e-scooter riders represents a proactive effort to tackle the increasing road toll in Western Australia. While this initiative is a move toward improving safety, it's crucial to also address the wider issues of cyclist protection, such as infrastructure and public awareness. As the proposal goes to the council for a vote, it ignites a vital discussion on how we can work together to enhance road safety for everyone. You can browse Work Armour Solutions’ wide range of hi vis workwear here, or check out our wide range of other work apparel here. For all inquiries, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly via the WorkArmour contact page.