In the fast-paced world of roadside assistance, where every second counts and safety is paramount, we often overlook the fundamental importance of two basic elements: signalling and visibility. They are not the most sophisticated tools, nor the most eye-catching, but they are, without a doubt, the ones that can make the difference between an incident and a tragedy.
For REAC's professionals, the Network of Roadside Assistance Companies, who face the risk of working at the roadside every day, correct signalling and optimal visibility are not just recommendations; they are commandments for survival.
The Invisible Risk: When the Road Becomes a Work Zone
Picture the scene: a breakdown on the hard shoulder, at night or in adverse weather conditions. The vehicle stopped, the technician working, and traffic travelling at high speed just a few metres away. In this scenario, the lack of proper signalling turns our professionals and the driver being assisted into practically invisible targets.
This is where the "forgotten tools" take on a vital role.
1. Signalling: Your First Shield of Protection
Signalling is not just about warning of a hazard; it is about creating a safety bubble around the assistance point.
- Advance Warning Triangles (or V-16 light): They are the most direct warning to other drivers. Placing them at the right distance (at least 50 metres in front of and behind the broken-down vehicle, if conditions allow, so that they are visible from 100 metres) is crucial. The emergence of the V-16 light is a significant step forward, allowing quick and safe signalling from inside the vehicle, without being exposed to traffic.
- Beacons and Cones: Our teams use warning beacons and cones to mark out the work area, guiding traffic and protecting the zone where the assistance work is being carried out. These elements create a visual barrier that drivers must respect.
- Rotating and Flashing Lights: REAC assistance vehicles are equipped with special lights that ensure they can be seen from a long distance, alerting drivers to their presence and the need to take extra care.
2. Visibility: Turning Risk into a Warning Flash
Being seen is as important as signalling. A highly visible roadside assistance professional is a safer professional.
- High-Visibility Reflective Vests: They are the safety garment par excellence. The vest, which must be made of fluorescent and reflective materials, ensures that the operator is seen both by day (thanks to its colour) and at night (thanks to the reflected light). Wearing it always when getting out of the vehicle on the carriageway or hard shoulder is an obligation that saves lives.
- Suitable Workwear: Beyond the vest, our teams' workwear often incorporates additional reflective elements, enhancing their silhouette and visibility in low-light environments.
- Lighting the Work Area: Modern assistance vehicles have specific lighting systems that illuminate the breakdown area, making our professionals' tasks easier and making the whole operation more visible to other traffic.
A Constant Reminder: Training is Vital
At REAC, continuous training is one of our pillars. Our courses for Level 1, 2 and 3 Operators not only cover assistance techniques but also place critical emphasis on the correct application of signalling protocols and the proper use of high-visibility equipment. We understand that the best tool is useless if you do not know how to use it properly.
For drivers who find themselves broken down, remembering how important it is to have a reflective vest and a V-16 light (or triangles) to hand, and to use them correctly, is an act of responsibility that contributes to everyone's safety.
On the road, prevention is the best help. Signalling and visibility are not minor details; they are the foundation of the safety that allows our REAC professionals to return home every day after giving you the assistance you needed. Let's not forget them, because they are tools that silently save lives.