Bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt is a high-visibility work shirt designed for environments where workers need increased visibility. The current Bisley Essentials model is identified as 312M1118T and comes in hi-vis orange and hi-vis yellow.
The shirt combines a lightweight performance-wicking fabric with a cotton backing. This construction aims to move moisture away from the body while maintaining a softer feel than many basic synthetic work shirts.
Its design also includes:
- Short sleeves
- Crew neckline
- One left chest pocket
- Navy lower section
- 2-inch silver segmented reflective tape
- UPF 50+ sun protection
- Fresche antimicrobial treatment
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Type R Class 2 classification
This combination makes it more than a simple brightly colored T-shirt. It is purpose-built workwear for visibility-focused occupations.
Why Is Class 2 Visibility Important?
Visibility becomes especially important when workers operate near moving vehicles or work against complicated visual backgrounds. ANSI explains that high-visibility safety apparel is designed to increase the wearer’s conspicuity in hazardous situations during daylight and under vehicle-headlight illumination in low-light conditions.
The bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt carries a Type R Class 2 designation. PIP states that Type R Class 2 apparel is intended for workers exposed to traffic traveling over 25 mph and working against complex backgrounds.
That makes the classification important when selecting workwear. A bright color alone does not tell you whether a garment meets a particular workplace visibility requirement.
Key Features at a Glance
The following table gives a quick overview of the garment.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bisley |
| Product family | Bisley Essentials |
| Model | 312M1118T |
| Garment type | Short sleeve high-visibility T-shirt |
| Safety classification | ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Type R Class 2 |
| Colors | Hi-vis orange and hi-vis yellow |
| Reflective material | 2-inch silver segmented tape |
| Neck | Contrast crew neck |
| One left chest pocket | |
| Lower section | Navy |
| Sun protection | UPF 50+ |
| Fabric construction | Lightweight performance-wicking fabric with cotton backing |
| Antimicrobial treatment | Fresche |
| Common applications | Construction, municipalities, shipyards |
| Closure | Pullover |
| Sizes listed by manufacturer | S–5XL, with additional made-to-order sizes available in selected variants |
Specifications can vary by market, size, and stock status, so buyers should verify the exact SKU before ordering.
Bisley Class 2 Short Sleeve T-Shirt Specifications
The bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt is built around several practical features rather than unnecessary styling.
The lightweight fabric helps support comfort during active work. Its cotton backing also gives the garment a softer hand feel, while the wicking construction helps move moisture away from the body.
The navy lower section serves a useful workwear purpose. Dirt, dust, grease, and everyday job-site marks can become noticeable quickly on bright-colored garments, so the darker lower section can help the shirt maintain a cleaner appearance between washes.
The chest pocket adds a simple storage area for small work essentials. It does not replace dedicated tool storage, but it can be useful for items such as a pen, small notepad, or identification card.
How the Reflective Tape Improves Visibility
A major feature of the bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt is its reflective detailing.
The manufacturer specifies 2-inch silver segmented retroreflective tape. Retroreflective materials work differently from ordinary bright fabric: they are designed to return incoming light toward its source, which can make the wearer more noticeable when illuminated by vehicle headlights.
The shirt therefore combines two visibility concepts:
- Fluorescent background material for daytime conspicuity.
- Retroreflective material to improve visibility when illuminated in lower-light conditions.
ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 establishes requirements covering areas such as background material, retroreflection, colors, configuration, testing, and labeling for high-visibility safety apparel.
What Does ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Type R Class 2 Mean?
This is one of the most important details to understand before purchasing.
ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 classifies high-visibility apparel according to Type and Performance Class. The Type relates to the expected work environment, while the Performance Class considers the amount of visible material and design characteristics incorporated into the garment.
For this Bisley model:
Type: R
Performance Class: 2
The Type R category applies to roadway and temporary traffic-control work environments, while Class 2 represents a higher visibility category than basic Class 1 apparel.
This does not mean every worker should automatically select Class 2. Employers should follow their workplace hazard assessment, applicable regulations, and specific site requirements.
Is the Shirt Comfortable for Hot Work Environments?
Short sleeves can be particularly useful during warm-weather work because they reduce fabric around the arms and can make movement feel less restrictive.
The bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt uses lightweight performance-wicking fabric with a cotton backing. PIP describes the material as designed to draw moisture away while maintaining a soft feel.
That combination can make the shirt a practical option for:
- Outdoor construction
- Roadside work
- Municipal maintenance
- Landscaping
- Utility-related tasks
- Industrial environments
- Shipyard work
However, comfort depends on temperature, humidity, physical activity, personal preference, and the rest of the PPE ensemble.
How Does the Navy Bottom Help?
A bright safety shirt provides visibility, but work environments can be messy.
The navy lower section on the bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt is designed to help hide dirt. PIP specifically lists the navy bottom as one of the garment’s features.
This is a practical design choice for workers who frequently kneel, lean against equipment, handle materials, or work around dust and grime.
It does not eliminate the need for proper cleaning. Instead, it helps the shirt look more work-ready during normal use.
What Is Fresche Antimicrobial Treatment?
The garment includes Fresche antimicrobial treatment, which PIP says helps protect against bacteria, mold, and viruses while supporting freshness and hygiene.
This feature can be useful when a shirt is worn for long work shifts or in environments where sweat and moisture are common.
It is important to understand the difference between antimicrobial treatment and medical protection. The treatment is a garment feature; it should not be interpreted as making the wearer immune to infection or replacing normal hygiene practices.
Does It Offer Sun Protection?
Yes. The bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt is listed with UPF 50+ sun protection.
UPF refers to the ultraviolet protection provided by fabric. A UPF 50+ garment can reduce the amount of UV radiation reaching covered skin, making this feature valuable for outdoor workers.
Still, short sleeves leave the arms exposed. Workers spending long periods in strong sunlight should consider other appropriate sun-protection measures, such as sunscreen, shade, protective eyewear, and suitable headwear.
Who Should Wear This Hi-Vis Shirt?
The shirt is especially relevant to workers whose visibility is an important part of their workplace safety program.
Potential users include:
- Construction crews
- Road workers
- Municipal employees
- Shipyard workers
- Maintenance teams
- Utility workers
- Traffic-related personnel
- Outdoor contractors
PIP specifically identifies construction, municipalities, and shipyards among its intended applications.
The correct garment should always match the hazards and visibility requirements of the specific workplace.
Available Colors and Sizes
The bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt is offered in high-visibility colors designed to stand out in working environments.
The manufacturer lists:
- Hi-vis yellow
- Hi-vis orange
The standard product page lists sizes from S through 5XL, while certain variants have additional larger sizes available as made-to-order products.
Before ordering for a team, compare the manufacturer’s current size chart with actual body measurements. Workwear should provide enough room for movement without becoming excessively loose.
Bisley Class 2 Short Sleeve T-Shirt vs. Ordinary Work T-Shirts
An ordinary work T-shirt may prioritize comfort, durability, or low cost. The bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt adds a specific visibility function.
| Comparison | Bisley Class 2 Shirt | Ordinary Work T-Shirt |
|---|---|---|
| High-visibility design | Yes | Usually no |
| ANSI Type R Class 2 | Yes | Usually no |
| Reflective tape | Yes | Usually no |
| UPF 50+ | Yes | Depends on garment |
| Moisture-wicking construction | Yes | Depends on fabric |
| Chest pocket | Yes | Depends on model |
| Navy dirt-hiding section | Yes | Rare |
| Antimicrobial treatment | Fresche | Depends on product |
| Traffic-focused workwear | Strong fit | Not necessarily |
If workplace visibility is a formal requirement, an ordinary brightly colored shirt should not automatically be treated as an equivalent substitute.
Pros and Limitations
Advantages
The strongest points include:
- ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Type R Class 2 rating
- Lightweight wicking construction
- Cotton-backed feel
- 2-inch reflective tape
- UPF 50+ protection
- Fresche antimicrobial treatment
- Practical navy bottom
- Chest pocket
- Short-sleeve design for warm conditions
- Two high-visibility color choices
Potential Limitations
No garment suits every workplace.
Consider these points before buying:
- Short sleeves provide less arm coverage than long sleeves.
- It is not automatically suitable for every PPE requirement.
- ANSI Class 2 does not replace other required protective equipment.
- Larger or unusual sizes may require made-to-order availability.
- Local workplace rules may require a different garment configuration.
How to Choose the Right Size
Choosing the correct size is more important than simply buying the size you normally wear.
Check:
- Chest measurement — Measure around the fullest part of the chest.
- Body length — Make sure the shirt remains tucked or positioned correctly during movement if your workplace requires it.
- Shoulder fit — The shoulder seam should sit comfortably without restricting arm movement.
- Sleeve comfort — Ensure the sleeves do not interfere with other PPE.
- Layering needs — Consider whether you will wear a base layer underneath.
A shirt that is too tight can restrict movement. One that is excessively loose can interfere with equipment or other protective clothing.
Care and Maintenance Tips
The reflective and high-visibility properties of safety apparel depend on proper care.
Follow the garment’s care label rather than assuming every high-visibility shirt can be washed identically.
Good general practices include:
- Follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions.
- Avoid unauthorized alterations.
- Inspect reflective tape regularly.
- Check for excessive fading or damage.
- Look for tears, holes, and worn seams.
- Replace garments when they no longer meet your workplace’s condition requirements.
- Do not cover or modify visibility materials with unauthorized patches.
ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 includes provisions concerning care labeling, testing, marking, and service-life guidance, which reinforces the importance of maintaining compliant high-visibility apparel properly.
Is It Worth Buying?
For workers who specifically need a Type R Class 2 short-sleeve high-visibility shirt, the Bisley model has a strong feature set.
It combines visibility, reflective detailing, moisture management, sun protection, a chest pocket, and an antimicrobial treatment in one garment.
The key question is not simply whether the shirt looks bright. The better question is whether its classification and design match your employer’s PPE requirements.
If they do, the bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt is a practical option worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Bisley Class 2 Short Sleeve T-Shirt ANSI rated?
Yes. The 312M1118T is listed by PIP as meeting ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Type R Class 2 requirements.
2. What colors does the Bisley shirt come in?
The manufacturer lists hi-vis orange and hi-vis yellow for the 312M1118T model.
3. Does the shirt have reflective tape?
Yes. It features 2-inch silver segmented retroreflective tape.
4. Does it provide sun protection?
Yes. PIP lists UPF 50+ sun protection as one of its features.
5. Who is this shirt designed for?
It is intended for high-visibility work environments, including construction, municipal work, and shipyard applications.
6. What is the model number?
The manufacturer’s model number is 312M1118T, with color and size suffixes identifying individual variants.
Final Verdict
The bisley class 2 short sleeve t-shirt is designed for workers who need more than a basic work shirt. Its ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 Type R Class 2 classification, reflective tape, high-visibility colors, UPF 50+ protection, moisture-wicking construction, and practical navy lower section create a well-rounded option for visibility-focused workwear.
Before purchasing, confirm the exact model, size, color, workplace requirements, and applicable safety rules. When those requirements align, this Bisley shirt offers a practical combination of visibility, comfort, and everyday worksite functionality.
