PPE for Road Workers: What Gear You Really Need

Sep 01, 2025

Roadwork is one of the most dangerous jobs in America. And too often, it’s because someone skipped the gear or wore the wrong kind.

Whether you’re flagging traffic in the dark or laying asphalt at 110°F, the right PPE is your lifeline.

Here’s your no-BS checklist of PPE for road workers:

Hard Hat
Eye Protection
Gloves
High-Vis gear
Safety Boots
Respiratory Masks

And if you’re tired of safety gear that fits like garbage and looks like it was designed by someone in HR, that’s where Armed American Supply comes in. We make jobsite-tough, hi-vis gear with attitude.

Want the full breakdown? Keep reading, we’ll show you how to stay protected, stay seen, and still look like the baddest crew on the road.

PPE by Task: Quick-Reference Road Work Checklist

Different roles on a road crew come with different risks. A flagger standing on the shoulder has different exposure than a guy raking asphalt next to a roller. So if you're wondering, “What exactly should I be wearing for my job?”, here’s your no-fluff cheat sheet:

Flagger

Gear Required: Hi-vis (Class 3), hard hat, gloves, steel-toe boots
Why it matters: Flaggers are often the closest to moving traffic and the most exposed. ANSI Class 3 gear provides 360° visibility even when you’re facing sideways. Hard hats and gloves protect from both debris and clueless drivers who don’t slow down until it’s too late.

Asphalt Crew

Gear Required: Respirator, gloves, hi-vis, heat-resistant boots
Why it matters: Paving is hot, literally. Asphalt emits fumes, radiant heat, and vapor. Respirators keep those lung-burners out of your system. Gloves protect against burns and blisters. And heat-resistant boots stop your soles from turning into melted rubber soup.

Traffic Setup

Gear Required: Eye protection, gloves, vest, helmet
Why it matters: Setting cones and signs means dealing with fast-moving vehicles, tools, and pressure to move fast. Eye protection guards against dust and kicked-up debris. Gloves give you grip while lifting heavy signage, and helmets protect from drops while loading/unloading.

Night Work

Gear Required: ANSI Class 3 reflective jacket, headlamp, additional lighting
Why it matters: Visibility drops hard after sunset, and so does driver attention. Class 3 jackets light you up from every angle, while headlamps help you see your tools and surroundings without fumbling. Supplement with mobile lights or light towers for site-wide coverage.

This isn’t just a checklist, it’s your armor. Don’t just gear up because someone told you to. Do it because you’ve got a life to get home to.

Where to Buy Road Work PPE That Doesn’t Suck

Most guys skip their PPE because it sucks to wear. It’s uncomfortable, boring, and makes you feel like a walking caution sign. But throw a funny line on the back and suddenly, that shirt’s the first thing out of the drawer.

That’s why Armed American Supply works.

Our hi-vis gear is tough, ANSI-compliant, and crew-approved. If you want your team seen and smiling, shop our hi-vis gear that hits different.