ECE 104. Its Coming are you Ready?
Although ECE 104 does not become law until 10th July 2011, be aware that the safety of your drivers and other road users depend upon being able to be clearly seen on our fast highways. Get HGV and trailers compliant with the new law and keep all road users safe.
The Regulations
ECE 104 is the law that establishes the rules for the use of reflective highway visibility safety marking tape on HGVs operating throughout Europe. Already in force in several countries,the law was due to take effect in October 2009 but to reduce regulatory costs on vehicle manufacturers and the haulage industry, this measure will not now become mandatory for new vehicle registrations until 10 July 2011:
- From 10th July 2011, newly approved types of heavy goods vehicles (HGV’s) with a mass over 7.5 tonnes and trailers with a mass over 3.5 tonnes operating in the UK, will by law be required to fit retro-reflective vehicle safety markings.
- From 10th July 2011, all newly registered HGV’s with a mass over 7.5 tonnes and trailers with a mass over 3.5 tonnes operating in the UK, will be required by law to be fitted with retro-reflective vehicle safety markings.
HGV Reflectability / Conspicuity ECE104
Vehicle Safety Markings required under ECE104 are 50mm to 60mm of highly reflective material that are applied to HGV’s and trailers to increase their visibility.
The passively reflective markings clearly outline the rear and sides of the vehicle, making it visible at up to 1000 metres at night. This means an HGV may be seen by motorway drivers up to 8-9 seconds earlier than those without vehicle safety markings.
Vehicle safety markings give drivers visual clues to interpret the trucks size and speed relative to their own. Drivers subconsciously know that trucks are slower and less manoeuvrable and will incorporate this into their driving decision and reactions.
The E-mark is proof that the products have been tested and certified by an independent and authorised centre and meets all the requirements of ECE104.
Without the E-Mark, the product is not compliant with the regulation. The material has to be homologated retro-reflective category C film with the reflective area being no more than 60mm wide. Category C materials are the brightest materials permitted for vehicle markings and may only be used for contour/conspicuity markings.
Highway Safety Services provides only fully compliant ECE 104 tape. We can assure you our products have met all the requirements of ECE104 and the E-Mark can be found printed on the material.