On Nov. 24, a federal law goes into effect requiring anyone working along a
highway to wear a high-visibility vest.
The regulation is designed to reduce the number of injuries and deaths of
responders while on the nation's highways.
So far this year, at least 50 firefighters, rescue personnel and police
officers have been struck while performing duties along the road, according
to statistics compiled by officials at ResponderSafety.com.
"While we try to grab every struck-by, we know we are missing many," said
Steve Austin, an official with Cumberland Valley Firemen's Association.
Austin said it's unfortunate that there is no way to capture a more
realistic picture of the problem. "There are probably thousands of injuries
annually that no one knows about. That's because there is no central
repository."
His group provides training and resources focusing on placement of vehicles
along the road and other aspects of responder safety.
While wearing high-visibility vests are a good idea, law makers didn't
consult fire officials while they were inking the regulations.
The garments don't meet standards to be worn by personnel actively engaged
in firefighting or hazardous materials operations. Some, however, are
flame-resistant.
Officials from the major fire service organizations - IAFC, NVFC, IAFF and
Emergency Responder Safety Institute - are working on a document to fix that
problem. However, those changes will not be reviewed by federal authorities
until next year.
"We're asking people to use their common sense," he said. "Everyone knows
it's dangerous to be operating along a highway."
As with many federal regulations, there are no penalties involved for those
who don't comply. However, the civil liability is paramount.
"While there won't be someone out there issuing you a ticket for not wearing
a vest on a federally supported highway, it's essential that responders
obey. It's up to the chief to enforce the rules just as they would any
other."
Austin said the bottom line is to protect responders while they work in a
very dangerous environment - the highway.
More information about the regulation can be obtained from ResponderSafety.com
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