In the event of accidental cutting will the waistcoat continue to protect?
A. No! EN471 specifies minimum amounts of fluorescent and reflective materials for each classification of garment. A garment that has been cut down will not necessarily contain the amounts of these component materials to meet the standard and offer the level of protection afforded by EN471. More importantly the garments will no longer be conforming in line with the level of protection identified as necessary in the risk assessment. Employers are liable for the safety of their employees and it is their responsibility to equip you with adequate PPE. If you cut down your garment, they will have to issue you with another.