SAN ANTONIO, TX (November 24, 2008) – A new federal law went into effect November 24 that requires all workers on federal highways to wear high visibility safety apparel, including photojournalists who are there to cover news.
A “federal-aid highway” is defined as any road that has used federal funds in its construction and/or maintenance. State departments of transportation usually have maps available that indicate which highways are federal aid highways. According to Hari Kalla of the Department of Transportation, state and county roads are usually federally funded while local and rural roads usually are not.
The U.S. Department of Transportation has repeatedly stated that it considers the media to be included under this law. During the legislative comment period the DOT received requests to expand the definition to include media workers. The Federal Highway Administration responded that the term ``responders to incidents'' includes media representatives.
In order for garments to qualify as high visibility safety apparel the safety vests must meet a standard known as “ANSI 107-2004 class II.” A Google search for “high-visibility garment” or “ANSI 107-2004” results in a wide variety of available outlets that include vests and jackets. Compliant garments should have a tag that reads “ANSI 107-2004 class II.”
While the use of reflective tape on regular clothing does not comply with the standard, compliant vests can typically be purchased for under $20.
The National Press Photographers Association recommends that all photography departments provide their staff with compliant high visibility safety apparel for the reasons listed above. NPPA also recommends that photographers wear the safety garments whenever they are out in traffic.
A company named Iron Horse Safety also offers ANSI compliant vests in mesh lime, mesh orange, solid lime, and solid orange colors with velcro or zipper fronts and in sizes up to 5XL.
The National Newspaper Association is selling a vest for $15 that meets the requirements with the word "PRESS" printed on the back in large letters.
