The Office for Competition and Consumer Protection dealt with the issue of reflective vests and reflective elements that are to improve our road safety. Trade Inspection carried out a check for this purpose. What is it effective?
The inspection carried out by the Trade Inspectorate in the second quarter of 2017 showed that every second warning vest tested in the laboratory had a low luminance factor. This means the lack of adequate visibility of the user, which poses a threat to his health and life when he is moving on the side. In the case of reflective elements, no such irregularities were found, but there were objections to the instructions for use.
Most entrepreneurs have voluntarily removed errors. The President of the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection initiated proceedings in five cases.
Kit has provided a number of advice to users on what to look for when buying and using reflective materials.
Watch out for gadgets. Companies often give out accessories that look like reflective elements. It is not known, however, whether they have appropriate properties, because they have undergone a conformity assessment procedure. Confirmation that the reflective element meets the requirements is the CE mark, placed directly on the reflector or the attached label.
Important information. Please note whether the manufacturer’s name and type of glare are on the packaging or label (1 – freely hanging, 2 – removable, 3 – fixed).
Instructions for use. It must be written in Polish. You will learn from it, among others how and where to fix the reflector, how to use it correctly, under what conditions do not use it and how to store it so that it does not lose its properties.
Be visible. Wear a reflector so that the headlights of the car illuminate. The lower, the better. Thanks to this, the driver will notice you in advance. Do not cover the back with a scarf or bag.
Right hand or leg. Fix reflective elements on the side of the vehicle movement. If according to regulations, you go to the left side of the road, wear a reflective band on your right hand or leg.
Check the condition of the reflective elements. If sewn on the clothing or backpack with reflective tape, for example in washing, replace it. If water got into the plastic reflective elements, buy a new one because the old one lost its properties due to the moisture.