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GUIDE TO RAILWAY STANDARDS

RIS-3279-TOM & EN ISO 20471 STANDARDS

High-visibility clothing is essential for workers on or near the UK rail network. The Rail Industry Standard (RIS-3279-TOM) specifies requirements for garments worn by railway workers, ensuring visibility in all conditions. While RIS-3279-TOM builds upon the international high-visibility standard EN ISO 20471, it includes additional colour and design requirements specific to the rail environment.

The purpose of these standards is to reduce the risk of accidents by making workers clearly visible to train drivers and other operatives, even in poor light or adverse weather.

Understanding RIS-3279-TOM

RIS-3279-TOM is the standard mandated by Network Rail and the Railway Group Standards. It requires:

  • Fluorescent Orange Colour Only – Unlike EN ISO 20471 which allows yellow, orange or red, railway PPE must be fluorescent orange.
  • Reflective Tape Placement – Reflective bands must be positioned around the torso, arms and/or legs in specific configurations.
  • Minimum Material Areas – Garments must include defined minimum areas of fluorescent fabric and retroreflective tape.
  • Day & Night Visibility – The standard ensures visibility in both daylight and under artificial light or headlights.
  • Garment Types – Jackets, trousers, coveralls, vests and waterproof clothing all require certification.

RIS-3279-TOM vs EN ISO 20471

The table below outlines the key differences between the international hi-vis clothing standard and the specific UK railway requirement.

Feature EN ISO 20471 RIS-3279-TOM
Accepted Colours Fluorescent Yellow, Orange, Red Fluorescent Orange Only
Minimum Visible Areas Class 1, 2, or 3 depending on area of material Equivalent to EN ISO 20471 Class 2 or 3 (higher visibility)
Reflective Tape Horizontal & vertical bands permitted in flexible layouts Mandatory placement: bands around torso & limbs
Application General industry use (construction, road work, airports) UK rail industry only (mandatory for rail workers)
Standard Owner International (ISO/European CEN) UK Rail Safety & Standards Board (RSSB)

Classes of High-Visibility Garments

Both EN ISO 20471 and RIS-3279-TOM garments are graded into visibility classes depending on the amount of fluorescent and reflective material used.

Class Minimum Background Material Minimum Reflective Material Examples of Use
Class 1 0.14 m² 0.10 m² Not acceptable for rail – light hi-vis vests
Class 2 0.50 m² 0.13 m² Railway work vests, sleeveless jackets
Class 3 0.80 m² 0.20 m² Railway jackets, coveralls, waterproofs (mandatory for trackside work)

Practical Guidance for Railway PPE Selection

When choosing railway-compliant high-visibility clothing:

  • Check Certification – Ensure garments carry both EN ISO 20471 and RIS-3279-TOM markings.
  • Choose Class 3 Where Required – For all trackside activities, Class 3 garments are recommended as they provide the maximum visible surface.
  • Consider Weather Conditions – Waterproof or thermal hi-vis garments must also meet the RIS-3279-TOM standard.
  • Look for Durable Materials – Frequent washing and outdoor exposure can reduce effectiveness; check garment care instructions.
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