New Roadside Vests Spark Controversy

A new federal rule took effect on Novemeber 24 requiring any worker on a roadway outside of his or her vehicle and exposed to traffic or construction machinery to wear a specific fluorescent, reflective vest. Firefighters take issue with the rule because it requires them to wear the flammable vest while fighting vehicle fires on roadways. Many of these workers were unaware of this particular rule although the Transportation Department sent information about the rule to most construction, media, and emergency personnel.