Conspicuity markings guide for commercial vehicles launched by FTA24 February 2011

The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has published a guide to new legislation on the fitment of conspicuity markings to large goods vehicles.

Initially produced for FTA's members last November, the guide has now been endorsed by the Department for Transport and will be issued to VOSA (the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) for its operatives' own guidance and procedures, and is being made available to the industry in general.

"With so many different vehicle body types in use, we thought it was necessary to publish a standard, easy-to-follow set of guidelines," comments Andy Mair, FTA's head of engineering policy.

The FTA guide covers a wide range of areas including: optionally-fitted conspicuity markings; who the rules apply to; marking requirements; derogations; conspicuity marking material requirements; and type approval.

Legislation states that new heavy goods vehicles and their trailers will need to be fitted with conspicuity marking material from 10 July this year (2011). The rules are in place because conspicuity markings illuminate the outline of a vehicle at night by reflection from the headlights of vehicles following behind, and can prevent fatal and serious injury accidents.

?The regulations require a full contour marking on the vehicle's rear. Partial contour markings consist of a horizontal line showing the length of the vehicle and 'tick' marks showing the upper corners of the vehicle. Under the terms of the legislation, tractor units are exempt from the requirements.

Author
John Challen

Related Companies
Freight Transport Association Ltd

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