Tag: safety equipment

Three quarters of poorly lit cyclists in town

Cycling may be a healthy, silent and non-polluting means of transportation, but its practice entails risks that can be partly avoided thanks to good safety equipment. A recent study unfortunately shows that this is not the case: three quarters of cyclists are poorly lit at night.

 

A recent survey conducted by the Road Safety Association and the MMA insurer raises a major problem in the world of urban cycling. The study took place between January and March last in 11 French cities including Paris and the result is not glorious: three cyclists out of 4 have a luminous device absent or defective and thus increase their risks of serious accident.

 

City lighting is often enough to see but the cyclist does not think enough to be seen. On average, 13% of cyclists are equipped with accessories to optimize their visibility and only 1 in 10 wear a helmet. However, bicycle lighting is mandatory as well as a reflective safety vest (off-agglomeration). This equipment is essential for the safety of the cyclist because it allows him to be visible on 150 meters against 30 meters without accessories.

 

So do not forget that cycling can be dangerous, motorists do not necessarily pay attention to cyclists and often do not even see them, that’s why it is important to mark your presence on the road. In 2012, 155 cyclists unfortunately lost their lives in a car accident and 20% of them were driving in the middle of the night and without wearing any reflective material.

Mandatory safety equipment on abroad

“Frequently, drivers think that they are just as mandatory safety equipment as in the Czech Republic and argue either with the Vienna Convention or with the Geneva Convention. The problem is that these conventions only mention the technical equipment of the vehicle, not the mandatory equipment. Therefore, we have to equip the vehicle in every state,” explains Aldrich Vanier, who is a lawyer.

 

For example, reflective vests for everyone in a vehicle are mandatory in Italy, France, Slovenia, Hungary, and again in Poland and, under certain circumstances, in Slovakia. Reflective jackets must be in the vehicle and not in the trunk. This is fine for example in Austria or Germany. In Austria, the safety vest is compulsory only for drivers, but for others in the vehicle it is recommended. However, if they have to stop and get out of the vehicle on the local road or motorway, everyone who leaves the car must wear a reflective vest. Similarly, in Bulgaria or Estonia, the vest is mandatory for anyone leaving the vehicle during an emergency, in Bulgaria this is also true for bikers.

 

Unlike in the Czech Republic, the warning vest is in some countries subject to traffic regulations and not to a prescription for vehicle equipment. In Finland, the visors are mandatory for pedestrians as well as reflective elements in the Czech Republic and other countries, for example in Slovakia. The fire extinguisher is in turn required in Poland, Ukraine or Greece and Bulgaria.

 

The Croatian specialty is that vehicles with a trailer must have 2 triangles. In a popular Czech destination, children under the age of 12 must not travel to the front seats. The exception is children up to two years old placed in an “egg” and with an airbag off. In Cyprus, it is forbidden to carry a child under five years of age in the front seat. It is forbidden there for drivers to consume food and drink while driving.

 

And each vehicle must have two warning triangles as required, which is also required in Turkey. Children under the age of 12 and less than 1.35 m cannot be transported in the front seats of cars, this is in Lithuania. In Luxembourg, a child aged 3 to 17, measuring less than 1.50 m, must be transported in the car seat only in the rear seats. In France, a child younger than 10 years of age may not travel in the front seat if the rear seats are free.

 

Hungary is often the transit country for those heading for the Adriatic. “Please note that the rear position lights must also be illuminated in retrofitting for daytime running lights,” warns ÚAMK. In Spain, you can have a fixed navigation on the windscreen, whatever else is forbidden. A driver with dipodic glasses or contact lenses must have one with them as a replacement.

 

What safety equipment is worth to carry in a car

What safety equipment is worth to carry in a car every day and what is unnecessary? Well, that is not an easy question because every driver has different needs. It also depends on the season or distance covered. However, let us try to choose those universal elements that can always come in handy.

 

First, the car is not worth reloading with dozens of items that will unnecessarily take up space in the trunk, to increase the mass, and thus the combustion of the car. If it is summer, for example, a shovel or chains for wheels, as well as a scraper or winter washer fluid will be unnecessary. Let us go one by one.

 

Mandatory equipment

Let us start with the mandatory equipment of the car, which is required by regulations. In the case of Poland, the list is … very short. Every driver must carry a warning triangle and a 1 kg fire extinguisher. Everything else depends on us. Let us add that the triangle is set at a suitable distance behind the car in case of immobilization of the car or in a visible place behind, during towing. As for the fire extinguisher – due to its small size it will only be useful for extinguishing a small fire. It is best to carry it in the cabin, and if it is already in the trunk, it is always on top, not under the floor or a pile of other luggage.

 

What to take always

It is good to have at least one reflective vest in the car. If it is necessary to leave the car standing on the side of the road, for example when replacing a wheel, the driver in the vest will be visible from a distance. The vest should always be at hand and not buried in the trunk. The first aid kit is also necessary. Combined with the basic knowledge about first aid, it can save many lives, including the owner of the first aid kit, when an accident occurs, and accidental witnesses will use his equipment. What should be in the first aid kit? Latex gloves, rescue thermal film, mask for artificial respiration, materials for dressing, triangular shawl, scissors, etc. An instruction for first aid may also be invaluable.

 

It is good to have a basic set of fuses and light bulbs, although not every replacement of the bulb is possible without the use of special tools or even a visit to the site. You never know when the sun will come out from behind the clouds. From autumn to spring, that is for most of the year, its rays fall at a large angle. Spare, duty glasses will increase comfort and safety of driving.

 

In the era of Smartphone, without which most of us cannot imagine normal operation anymore, a spare charger will be necessary, connected to the cigarette lighter socket, or to a USB socket, if it is in the car. Of useful things, you can also mention the ready print of the road traffic, which will prove salutary in this stressful situation.

 

It is also worth carrying a lift with a key to unscrew the wheels and gloves. The latter will be useful not only when changing the wheel, but always when you need to lift the mask, for example, add the windscreen washer fluid without the risk of dirtying your hands. In case, it is good to have a packet of tissues, on hand. If your hands get dirty, you can wipe them quickly and easily. Finally, among the useful items, replace the flashlight – when at night, when replacing a burned out light bulb, you will need to illuminate under the hood and a penknife or multi-tool type tool, having built-in pliers, screwdrivers and many other universal tips.

 

Reminder of the importance of the safety lifejacket

Since the beginning of the year, on the Atlantic coast, the sea has taken away many lives of seamen, professionals or boaters, who have fallen into the water without a lifejacket. Without a safety vest, the chances of survival are very low, even if help arrives quickly in the area.

 

While the summer season will begin and be accompanied by a sharp increase in the practice of water recreation, the Atlantic Maritime Prefecture reminds the importance of wearing the lifejacket or a PFD (integrated buoyant suit).

 

The vest saves life.

In 2016 and 2017, no person who fell into the sea and wearing a lifejacket lost his life.

 

Reminder of safety instructions:

– To prevent accidents:

Check his equipment and safety equipment.

Check the weather, the tidal coefficients and the strength of the currents.

Do not overestimate your abilities.

 

– To be an actor of his rescue:

be able to alert the rescue: VHF (VHF 16) or telephone (196: direct number to the CROSS), have informed his relatives of the expected time of return, do not leave alone and have a team member to give the alert.

 

Be able to wait for rescue: wear a lifejacket or PFD.

To be seen: to wear brightly colored reflective clothes and equipped with signaling equipment for the night (flash lamp …).

 

 

 

Safety equipment for cyclists to ride safely

From November 6 to 9, there will be a national awareness campaign for cyclists “Cyclists, shine! About the theme of lighting – It’s about convincing aficionados of the 2 wheels to equip themselves properly at night to ride safely.

 

Without a lighting device, the cyclist substantially increases the risk of being the victim of an accident. The recall is far from futile because many cyclists neglect their lighting or think they are well equipped when it is not. At night, “you have to see and be seen”.

 

From Monday 6th to Thursday 9th November, Amiens, in partnership with the Prefecture of the Somme, the Municipal Police of Amiens, the prevention service of Amiens Metropolis and the agency launch the operation “Cyclists shine”: Tips on best practices, attitudes, and safety equipment suitable for cycling at night will be on the program of the event.

 

Stands will be set up in the city for the occasion, with an information point on the mandatory equipment of the cyclist, a repair workshop, the distribution of free vouchers for a technical control at the agency, visibility kits (reflective vest, reflex reflectors, fluorescent armbands, lamp set, etc.).

 

A new step towards the safety of field workers

Priority for many construction companies, safety found itself at the heart of collaboration between Air Liquid, Bourges Construction, CEA and Suez. Grouped together in a collaborative innovation laboratory, the aptly named “Ideas Laboratory”, they have developed a range of connected equipment. The goal: to adapt to the new uses of the operators, while guaranteeing their work safety in the best conditions.

 

While it is certain that craft companies are still lagging far behind in deploying the Single Document, employee safety remains a priority for all. The Institute for Research and Innovation on Occupational Health and Safety had also published at the beginning of the year an awareness guide for the attention of small and medium-sized businesses in the construction industry.

 

Going even further, four partners unveiled April 28 the result of two years of work. In fact, at Ideas Laboratory, the Air Liquid gas specialist Bourges Construction, CEA (a technology researcher) and Suez, an expert in resource development, have developed a set of connected safety equipment intended for operators in the field.

It is thanks to collaborative work and the pooling of knowledge that the various partners have been able to develop new connected sleeves. In addition, these devices are attached to the forearm and interact directly with their wearers.

 

The terminal allows “to guide, inform and accompany employees in real time on the ground,” as indicated by the four partners. Stakeholders “thus benefit from an innovative device to communicate, collaborate and optimize their efficiency, while keeping their hands free, whatever the weather conditions”.

 

The group also specifies that the sleeves connected have already been tested and that the employees of the various partners should gradually be equipped. At the same time, Air Liquid, Bourges Construction, CEA and Suez are also thinking about the design of other tools such as “a reflective vest equipped with sensors for analyzing the air”, “glasses with an integrated camera”, or still “safety shoes for relocation”.

 

 

Well-equipped vehicle and safety vest protected employees

Among the equipment required by the Act is the fluorescent safety vest that can be seen by other motorists, day or night, in case of emergency stop on the roadway or its surroundings. This vest must be CE approved and placed in a location easily accessible by the driver in the vehicle.

 

Another obligation: to have a warning triangle. As a reminder, it must be placed at least 30 meters from the vehicle or obstacle to report. In case of absence of the vest or the triangle, the employee of the company is liable to a fine of up to 750 €.

The case of the ethyl test is slightly different: chemical or electronic and imperatively standard NF *, it is also mandatory…. Except that the non-respect of this obligation is not sanctioned. After a period of shortage in the promulgation of the law, it is now possible to find pharmacy, tobacco shop, Total service stations including and insurance companies.

 

Anything that can contribute to employee safety is paramount. That is why it is strongly recommended to equip each company vehicle with a spare wheel and the reflective equipment to install it. In case of absence of spare wheel, the puncture-resistant bomb can be very useful. Beyond a precautionary principle, note that in case of control, the bad condition of the tires can be sanctioned by a fine of 750 € maximum doubled of immobilization of the vehicle.

 

The same sanction is applied, with a fine of “only” 450 €, in case of deficient or out of order fires. In the register of this small equipment that can render great service figure the lamp, preferably dynamo to prevent battery failure. To find your keys fallen on the ground at night or to guide you in the dark, it is always advisable.

 

Also include small wipes to wipe your windshield from the inside if your vision is disrupted, or special “plastic wipes” to maintain dashboards and door interiors. If employees have to transport customers, as much as having a clean vehicle … and then you always feel better in a well-maintained car.

 

More rarely mentioned but so important in case of a serious accident to carry first aid: the pharmacy kit, the survival blanket, the hammer glass breaker, the belt cutter and the fire extinguisher. For victim drivers and their passengers, or to help another vehicle, this safety equipment can be simply vital. Note that this equipment is on sale in the shops of the vast network of Total gas stations in France and abroad.

To work on the bike with wear safety vest

“I’m not an exotic,” Erich defends war. And in fact, whoever drives the bike to work today, no longer has to ask the question: Does not the car have a car? The teacher has already saddled almost 20 years ago.

 

Since this time, the 60-year-old has been riding a bicycle between his home and his workplace with wear a reflective vest. 25 kilometers, 25 kilometers, every school day, both summer and winter. Departure time in the morning: 6:15 am “In the winter it is not so tingling,” war warns, which changes in snow then on a mountain bike with spikes. And conceded, at 20 degrees minus, the health prevails at war and the wheel remains in the garage. On the extreme days of extreme weather he travels to Steinem by car and from there by bike in the Benz Valley. Sometimes one must overcome oneself, says Krieg. But for this, unforgettable moments compensated. Sunsets, morning moods, cloud images: From the edge of the Steiner and from the heights, Krieg has already taken photos with his camera, which not only astonished the fellow circle. “I arrive with normal pulse and breath.” On the way back, the climb to Steinem awaits. “Eight to ten minutes” war overlaps the duration of the climb.

 

The fact that the pedagogue, who has been teaching for 32 years, does not have to struggle to get uphill, is due to the fact that war is not only driving his workplace by the wheel. The road bike is also his sports safety equipment and the route training for the really challenging mountain marathons. Several times war went the Totaled over four passes and 5500 heights, the Marathon dales Dolomites and several times also with start. A route leads across the Stevie Pass. “It is very challenging” is the official information of the organizer. Erich Krieg can swarm about how the “swings” of over 20 sweeps “upwards.” Pride, and he confesses, is war, that he has now driven 20 times the Alb extreme cycling marathon.

 

War has now come a little shorter; the number of kilometers traveled by bicycle has fallen from 16,000 to 12,000 kilometers per year. The enthusiasm for cycling, the intensive contact with nature, and the close-up experience of all seasons, have not let up. Cycling was not the first choice. It was football. When, in 1985, a doctor drew a sideline, because the knee had suffered damage, his recommendation for alternative sports went on swimming or cycling. War chose the wheel.

 

Ten years later, the club of cycling friends Bartholomew, whose chairman he is to this day, has raised the war. The 14 founding members have now become 140. “Cycling is booming.” Once upon a time, war on the drive to school was started by a dog in the mist. Nothing happens. Drivers and animals were equally surprised. In order to be more visible, war is only possible with an alert yellow safety vest and, of course, with a helmet. “If someone goes without, I could get sick.” The warriors also know that the war is sustained by riding helmets, if they want to swing on the wheel after class.

 

“I am already an outdoor person” admits war. In winter, you can go cross-country skiing, and the cross-country ski runs can be reached by bike. The great effect of sport is indisputable to war. For 30 years he had not missed a day at school. And there was never a delay with the bike. The woman is riding along, “where it is beautiful,” war describes the goals for family excursions. Whether the fun of the grandchildren Ida and Henri When war finds three to four more wheel tracks in the morning on the way t in the snow, he knows: “I am in good company.”

Roadman works with wearing reflective vest

From Wednesdays on the roads of Warmed and Maury there are very difficult conditions, there are many risk for road safety. Snowfall and heavy fall in the night made the roads and sidewalks very slippery. As a result of failure of more than 1500 reception there is no electricity.

 

As announced by the synoptic at night from Wednesday to Thursday, the temperature dropped to around -10 degrees in our region. Melting snow the day before and the frost at night very hindered the conditions of roads and sidewalks.

 

In the winter, Olsztyn’s road warriors took over at night. – During night shift, five soles, four sanders and three tractors left the streets. Of course, equipment is equipped with a plow. During the night shift, 113 tons of salt and 56 tons of salt sand were poured.

 

Four salts, four sanders and three tractors are working in the morning in Olsztyn. Approx. 3 roadmen in reflective vest have also begun to clear the sidewalks. Some of them are already snow-shoveled, parts are still in progress. – Problems on the roads can be reported on a regular basis, we will immediately intervene – adds Pewee.

 

As reported by the Provincial Crisis Management Center, all national and provincial roads are passable. On national roads there are 61 units of safety equipment. The worst conditions are in the south, where the surface is muddy. All provincial roads are covered with snow mud.

The safety equipment for car before the long weekend trip

Again there will be three days of rest and those who have in mind to travel in car must take into account certain aspects so that the ride does not suffer setbacks due to the car, keep the safety equipment and safety vest.

 

April has brought some holidays that have cut off the work week, allowing you to relax with the family or some solo starts. This, nevertheless, obliges to be attentive to the maintenance of the vehicle so as not to suffer unforeseen and thus to enjoy without startles.

 

That’s why, and thinking about the next long weekend for Labor Day, which opens in May, Goodyear makes a small reminder of the nine elements to always keep in mind when going on a long trip.

 

Oil Levels

It is advisable to change it every 5 or 10 thousand kilometers and whenever you are going to make a long journey by road, due to the high requirement to which the engine will be subjected.

 

Filled antifreeze

The requirement of the engine in long trips also forces to monitor this liquid. Although it must be completed every six months, it must be done before the journey.

 

Monitor battery

Ideal battery maintenance is to change it every two years, so it is suggested to check your condition before traveling.

 

Appropriate emergency equipment

It is also important to check that the car has all the necessary elements in case of an incident: spare tire, cat, cross key, fuses, cords, lantern, triangle and reflective vest, remembering that the absence of the latter Is punished by law.

 

Flawless brakes

Check the wear of the brake shoes, brake pad conditions and check that the brake fluid levels are optimum.

 

Pen without damage

If the destination is southern Chile, chances are rain will appear. For this reason, it is ideal that the wiper blades are not damaged or worn, to better remove the water.

Ready lights

 

Be aware that all the lights in the car are properly lit. Also, pay close attention to the alignment of the lights, so as not to harm those who come in the opposite direction.

Updated documents

It is very important to keep all the papers of the vehicle up to date, with special attention to the technical review. Keep them handy and thus avoid fines for the absence or expiration of these.

 

Tires with adequate pressure

The air of the tires will depend on the conditions in which the trip is made, either with the number of people or the luggage that goes in the vehicle. However, Goodyear remembers the importance of checking the safety equipment before leaving and has the spare tire ready and in optimum condition.

 

With these nine points to consider, the vehicle will not be a matter of concern to have fun this next long weekend.