What Is a Traffic Reflective Vest? Why You Should Wear One When Riding or Driving
Whether walking, riding a motorbike, or driving a car, we all face hidden dangers in traffic. For those whose jobs are directly tied to transportation and roadways, these risks are even more prominent — especially in low-light conditions. That’s why wearing a traffic reflective vest is not just a safety measure, but a must-have item for visibility and protection. So, what exactly is a traffic reflective vest? Let’s explore with GAK.
1. What is a Traffic Reflective Vest?
A traffic reflective vest is a type of specialized personal protective clothing designed for workers in the transportation and logistics industries. These vests feature high-visibility reflective materials that reflect vehicle headlights, significantly enhancing visibility in low-light or nighttime environments.
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2. Who Needs a Traffic Reflective Vest?
Certain jobs require long hours on or near busy roads, often in darkness or poor visibility. Although Vietnam currently has no mandatory law requiring drivers to wear reflective clothing, several legal provisions indirectly support its use:
- Clause 4, Article 4 – Decree 39/2016/ND-CP: Employers must provide suitable personal protective equipment (PPE), including reflective apparel, for workers in high-risk environments.
- Article 23: Night workers or those in low-visibility areas must be provided with proper gear to ensure their safety.
- Vietnam’s 2008 Road Traffic Law: Requires traffic police, transport inspectors, and on-duty traffic personnel to wear reflective clothing for visibility.
So, who should wear a traffic reflective vest?
- Road construction and repair workers, especially at night
- Road maintenance staff
- Truck drivers operating in docks, warehouses, or roadside environments
- Firefighters, rescue and emergency personnel
- Traffic officers and inspectors
- Delivery and ride-hailing drivers working after dark
Employers are responsible for equipping employees with appropriate safety garments, especially when working near roads or highways.
3. What Are the Benefits of Wearing a Traffic Reflective Vest?
Like other reflective clothing, traffic vests are designed for visibility and safety. They allow drivers to identify the wearer from a distance and take timely action to avoid accidents.
Key Benefits:
- Enhanced Visibility: Makes it easier for vehicle operators to spot pedestrians or workers, even in fog, rain, or dim light.
- Group Recognition: Reflective vests help distinguish teams or roles during large-scale outdoor work.
- Improved Job Efficiency: Boosts confidence and focus for those working at night or in high-traffic zones.
Popular Types of Traffic Reflective Vests in Vietnam
Vietnam’s 2015 Occupational Safety and Hygiene Law recommends reflective clothing for workers in hazardous environments. Some common types include:
- Mesh Reflective Vest: A lightweight over-vest made from breathable mesh, often with plastic or LED reflective strips.
- Traffic Police Safety Vest: Designed for law enforcement and transport inspectors. Features include walkie-talkie loops, high-visibility letters (e.g., "C.S.G.T"), and LED or neon-reflective panels.
- Reflective Safety Harness: A strappy reflective accessory worn over existing uniforms — affordable and highly visible.
- Motorbike Rider Reflective Vest: Custom-designed for ride-hailing and delivery drivers, helping improve road safety at night.
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Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you better understand the role and importance of traffic reflective vests in road safety. If you have questions or need professional advice on choosing the right safety gear, contact GAK – Vietnam’s trusted manufacturer of reflective workwear and uniforms.
