The Difference Between Fluorescent And Retroreflective Materials At The Workplace

Some of the safety items that you should have at your workplace, include fluorescent and retroreflective materiel items. Although both of these types of materials are made to ensure that they draw attention to themselves, but they differ in a few ways. We’re going to show you some of the key differences between the two materials.

The fluorescent material differs from retroreflective materials in that it absorbs some invisible ultraviolet light from sunlight, then special pigments release those UV light rays as more visible light. It can only do this in areas where there is natural light. Even in environments that don’t have very much natural light, fluorescent material seems much brighter than materials of the same color, which are non-fluorescent. It seems especially bright when the day is drawing near to dusk or dawn and it also contrast well against a lot of different backgrounds.

On the other hand, the retroreflective material actually returns light into the direction of the light’s source and serves to allow the driver to see the light reflected from the material that the person is wearing. This type of material tends to work best in environments that are dully lit. It’s not that these materials can’t reflect in the daylight, but it doesn’t do a very good job. There is a lack of contrast, unlike for fluorescent material, making it a material that isn’t great for enhanced visibility during the bright daylight.

A safe work place is crucial and ensuring that you have the right safety procedures and policies for things such as working at heights, first aid CPR, confined space entry, as well as things like WHMIS-GHS can create a great work environment that is safe and productive. Since Advanced Consulting and Training Ltd.’s founding, their diverse team of certified health and safety professionals have taken great pride in their ability to deliver prompt, cost-effective and relevant workplace health and safety solutions. As a CPO approved, TSSA accredited, and WSIB approved provider, we look forward to discussing how ACT can help with your companies safety requirements. Contact us today.