EN 471

EN 471 was the European hi-vis standard from 1994 to 2013 and is the direct predecessor of EN ISO 20471. It already used three visibility classes and the same fluo yellow, orange-red and red base colors, but the detail requirements differed: retroreflective stripes had different minimum widths and reflection values, placement rules were looser, and fluorescence wash cycles were fewer. Existing EN 471 vests may be worn until end of life if fluo and retro performance is still visibly sufficient; new PPE procurement must meet at least EN ISO 20471 since 2013. When shipping EN 471 stock the CE certificates under Regulation (EU) 2016/425 must be checked, as many product families were withdrawn. In practice EN 471 markings still appear on simple workshop clothing and promo items.