HARRISBURG – Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Frank E. Pawlowski said troopers and motor carrier enforcement officers have an added measure of protection now that they have new, high-visibility safety vests to wear when directing traffic and carrying out other duties on busy roadways.
“Working on busy roads can be very dangerous. These bright yellow vests will enhance safety because they can be spotted easily by drivers from a distance,” said Pawlowski, who added that a study by the Emergency Responder Safety Institute found that about 50 police officers, firefighters and rescue personnel have been struck by vehicles while performing duties along roads this year.
“Troopers who direct traffic, investigate crashes, conduct safety checkpoints, and handle lane closures are expected to wear these vests,” said Pawlowski. “While the new vests will improve visibility, it is still essential for every driver to slow down and proceed with caution when encountering any emergency vehicle stopped along the road.”
About 3,000 vests were distributed last month to members of the department’s patrol units, collision analysis and reconstruction specialist units, forensic service units and motor carrier enforcement units. Another 2,800 vests are expected to be purchased during 2009 so that every trooper and motor carrier enforcement officer has a vest.
Federal regulations that took effect last month require anyone working along a highway to wear a high-visibility vest that meets the requirements of the American National Standards Institute/International Equipment Association.
The vests, which cost $43 each, are being purchased with federal grant funds.