Conspicuous move

3M is supporting REFLECT, the trade body working to improve the conspicuity of HGVs, in its efforts to encourage fleet and haulage firms to join up to its REFLECT voluntary code of conduct. The conduct supports the widespread fitting of retro-reflective markings to heavy good vehicles (HGVs), prior to them becoming mandatory by law.

From 1 July 2011 the ECE104 regulation will become effective, requiring all newly registered HGVs operating in the UK with a mass more than 7.5t and trailers with a mass over 3.5t to be fitted with retroreflective vehicle safety markings.

To comply with ECE104, a complete contour line marking in red or yellow needs to be applied to the rear of the vehicle. The conspicuity marking should be as close as practical to the edge and extend to at least 80% of the width of the vehicle.

Partial contour line markings in yellow or white are the minimum requirement for the vehicle side, although a complete box can be applied. The conspicuity markings should also cover at least 80% of the length of the vehicle, excluding cab or drawbar.