KC Scout Delivers Once Again for Halloween (Photo Gallery)

Safety Shout: High Visibility PPE

Let’s reflect on the importance of high-visibility PPE. This is your chance to get completely lit and flash people without going to jail. In fact, it will keep you alive! Take a shine to doing it right, and don’t take it lightly. Hey, why don’t you show some class? Class II or III, preferably. Why look at you, you’re positively beaming! No dirty looks, please, but feel free to glare all you want! Here’s some advice on how to be noticed in a positive light.

• Wear the right class of high-visibility personal protective equipment (PPE). MoDOT requires Class II apparel (shirt or vest) during daylight hours, and Class III apparel (May be either a Class III upper or a Class II shirt or vest plus Class E pants or reflective “gaiters”) from a half-hour before sunset until a half-hour after sunrise.
• This PPE must be worn on or near the right of way or anywhere else traffic hazards exist. The policy is there for good reason…it’s easier for a motorist to notice you in the dark when your legs are reflective or when you have on the more reflective Class III top. Even with a Class III top, gators are recommended so it’s easier for drivers to identify you as a human rather than a channelizer or sign.
• Know the difference between “reflective” and “retro-reflective.” This applies to PPE and other safety equipment such as signs, channelizers, etc. “Reflective” material sends light back toward the source (such as headlights) in a 30-45 degree arc. “Retro-reflective” materials send it back in a 10 degree or tighter arc. This means that retro-reflective is much brighter, but can’t be seen as well from the sides. Both have their uses, but they are not always interchangeable. Make sure you follow the Typical Application (TA) and other policy and Engineering Policy Guide (EPG) guidance.
• Never clean reflective or retro-reflective material (clothing, signs or anything else) with diesel, brake cleaner, or any petroleum based solvent. Doing so can degrade the material and the tiny reflective beads inside. Clean PPE and equipment according to the manufacturer’s directions, and replace it as necessary.
• Don’t try to be the employee with the most dirt, grease, and oil on your high visibility PPE. Most folks know these days that dirtier does not necessarily mean harder-working. Would you rather be seen and be safe, or be seen lying on a hospital gurney with your dirty, greasy self? Keep your priorities straight.
• Don’t hesitate to tactfully remind a coworker they’re not very bright (PPE- wise, that is) when they need it. You may be saving a life. If someone does the same for you, don’t get ornery about it. They may be saving yours.
• Try this test yourself…take a flash picture of an old dirty piece of PPE at night, then take a similar picture of a new one. You might be shocked at the difference. That could be you in there!

Being seen in sufficient time for a driver to slow down or move over can make all the difference in the world. Remember, the highways are full of distracted and impatient drivers, as well as those impaired by medical conditions, drugs, or alcohol. Making sure every driver sees you as brightly as possible is the best way to avoid a dim future. 

If you would like more information on PPE, contact your supervisor or district Risk Management.

Fall Meeting 2017 (Photo Gallery)