Safety is paramount in the transport industry. Rail workers navigate potentially hazardous environments daily, from busy platforms to high-speed tracks.
Ensuring their safety and compliance with regulatory standards isn’t just a legal obligation; it’s a moral imperative. Railway workwear, therefore, plays a critical role in offering protection, visibility and comfort while meeting stringent industry regulations, such as RIS-3279-TOM.
The importance of compliant railway clothing
Railway workers often operate in challenging conditions, including poor weather, low light and high-noise environments. Railway workwear is designed to mitigate these risks through various key features and functions.
High-visibility
High-visibility (hi-vis) clothing is essential for rail workers, particularly those working near moving trains or in low-light conditions. Hi-vis garments, compliant with standards such as RIS-3279-TOM, ensure workers remain easily visible, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Weather resistance
Railway clothing often includes weather-resistant features, such as waterproof and windproof materials, to protect workers from the elements. This is crucial for maintaining focus and productivity, particularly during prolonged outdoor tasks.
Durability and comfort
Durable materials that withstand wear and tear are essential for rail sector workers. Comfort-enhancing features, such as breathable fabrics and ergonomic designs, ensure workers can perform their duties effectively without unnecessary distractions.
Specialised protection
Some rail sector roles require additional protection, such as flame-resistant clothing or anti-static garments, to safeguard workers from specific hazards, such as electrical arcs or combustible materials.
Regulatory compliance: Why it matters
Compliance with industry regulations is the cornerstone of all railway operations. These standards set the benchmark for high-visibility workwear, ensuring garments meet colour, retroreflective materials and durability requirements.
Key regulations for railway workwear
- RIS-3279-TOM: This standard governs hi-vis clothing for rail workers in the UK. It specifies requirements for fluorescent colours, retroreflective tape placement and overall garment performance.
- EN ISO 20471: While RIS-3279-TOM is specific to rail, EN ISO 20471 applies to hi-vis clothing across various industries, ensuring visibility and safety in high-risk environments.
- PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425: This regulation outlines general requirements for personal protective equipment (PPE), including transport workwear, ensuring it meets essential health and safety criteria.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in serious consequences, including increased risk of accidents, legal penalties and reputational damage.
External factors driving the need for compliant railway clothing
Technological advancements
Innovations in railway systems demand updated safety protocols, including advanced PPE solutions.
Climate change
Extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common in the UK, increasing the need for weather-resistant clothing.
Regulatory evolution
As safety standards evolve, staying diligent and abreast of changes requires a proactive approach to ensure workwear remains fit for purpose.
Future trends in railway workwear
Sustainable materials
Eco-friendly fabrics that align with sustainability goals while maintaining performance.
Enhanced ergonomics
Designs that prioritise worker comfort and mobility, reducing fatigue during notoriously long shifts.
How Johnsons Workwear supports railway safety and compliance
At Johnsons Workwear, we understand the rail industry's unique challenges and can support you and your employees in various ways.
Compliant hi-vis garments
Our range of high-visibility clothing meets RIS-3279-TOM and EN ISO 20471 standards, ensuring workers are seen in all conditions.
Tailored solutions for rail
From flame-retardant garments to weatherproof jackets, we offer a wide selection of specialised workwear to address the specific needs of rail professionals and teams across various sectors.
Workwear rental and laundry services
Our rental solutions ensure workers always have access to compliant, well-maintained workwear. Regular laundering and repair services extend garment lifespan and maintain compliance, reducing costs and administrative burdens.
Domestic laundry processes often fail to meet the stringent hygiene and safety standards for professional-grade workwear.
Ongoing compliance monitoring
We stay up-to-date with the latest regulatory changes, helping our customers adapt their workwear set-up proactively with us. This ensures continuous alignment with industry standards and alleviates the risk of any unexpected sanctions and operational disruption.
Railway workwear is just one vital component of safety and compliance in one of the UK’s most demanding industries. By choosing the right workwear partner, rail operators can protect their workforce, meet regulatory requirements and enhance operational efficiency.
To learn more about the key requirements for the transport sector as a whole, explore our services or head over to our industries page.
