Safe Bodies, Hot Plastic? Practical Issues in the Introduction of High-Visibility Workwear (Hi-Vis) in Australia, 1960s–80s

Fluorescent high-visibility workwear (‘hi-vis’) first appeared in Australia in the 1960s to improve worker safety. Despite its contemporary ubiquity, little is known about hi-vis’ emergence. This research, using archives, artefacts, and photographs, traces the early years of hi-vis in Australia. Initially introduced by public-service employers for high-risk users, adoption varied widely. Drawing on examples from roads and railways, the authors examine key factors influencing initial uptake of hi-vis, including practicality, thermal comfort, and industry-specific risks. Other contributing factors included legal frameworks and growing awareness of work health and safety. Later, changing social attitudes and globalised production dynamics were key; however, this article focuses on the early decades. Ultimately, the authors find that early uses of hi-vis were grounded in practicality and safety, and the state played a crucial role. More recent uses of hi-vis – as performative costume or as everyday workwear – mark a shift away from initial safety intentions.