You know that you need to have white and red and white reflective tape (also called conspicuity tape) on your box truck to be in compliance with DOT (Department of Transportation) requirements.
But do you know some of the most common errors owners make regarding reflective tape? Review this list to see if you’re guilty of any of these avoidable mistakes that could result in fines or worse.
Not installing the reflective tape according to guidelines
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and DOT guidelines are very clear on where to install the reflective tape. The tape must be placed on the sides and the rear of the box truck and follow the horizontal and vertical measurements as well as the spacing rules between tape sections. (NOTE: Measurements should be taken with the trailer empty or unladen.)
- On the rear: The tape must outline the full width of the lower rear of the box and be as horizontal as possible, with the centerline between 375 mm (15 inches) and 1,525 mm (60 inches) above the road surface. On the upper rear, two strips of white tape (each 12 inches long) must be positioned horizontally and vertically on the right and left upper corners to form an L shape.
- On the sides: The tape should cover at least half of the vehicle’s side length and be as horizontal as possible, with the centerline between 375 mm (15 inches) and 1,525 mm (60 inches) above the road surface. While the tape is not required to be continuous, the segments must be evenly spaced.
Not inspecting the tape on a regular basis
Environmental conditions, debris, and routine washing can negatively affect the tape. And a dirty or damaged tape won’t provide the proper reflective surface, defeating the purpose of having it on your box truck.
Check for the following issues:
- Wear and tear: Nothing lasts forever and that includes even top-quality reflective tape, which usually is good for 5 to 7 years. And once it starts to fade or peel away from the truck’s surface, it no longer provides the reflectivity that is required to meet the FMCSA guidelines. If it’s coming loose or is in bad shape, replace it ASAP following these tips.
- Dirt and grime: According to My Safety Manager, if the reflective tape has a layer of dust or mud coating it, the reflectivity can be cut by 50% or more, making your truck harder to see at night or in low-visibility conditions.
Not following installation procedures
You bought the right tape, and you know where to place it. But if you don’t take ambient temperature into account or fail to prepare the truck’s surface, all your efforts will be for naught. Don’t make these mistakes.
- Wrong ambient temperature: The ambient temperature should be between 40 and 85 degrees F. If it’s too cold, the glue will stiffen, which will make adhesion more challenging. Temp below 40 degrees? Bring the vehicle into a heated garage and make sure the tape itself is room temperature.
- Inadequate surface preparation: The truck surfaces must be dry to the touch, grease-free and dirt-free. Use a lint-free paper towel to wipe the surface with a non-oily, quick-drying solvent, then dry immediately with a clean, dry, lint-free paper towel, recommends 3M. Never apply reflective tape on a freshly-painted vehicle, since the offgassing of new paint fumes can cause the tape to come loose and fall off. Wait at least two days for the paint to fully cure.
Using the wrong tape
It’s not enough that the tape is the right width or the proper red/white color combination to pass muster. It must be DOT-C2 reflective tape—not a generic version. According to Truck Inspectors, LLC (a specialty, inspection-only company), the DOT-C2 identification markings must appear on the tape at least every 12 inches, be at least 3mm tall and stamped in indelible ink.
Briargate Supply has a full line of federal mandated DOT reflective conspicuity tape, available in a variety of configurations. Have an industry-specific need? Contact us at 866-506-4785. Briargate Supply is an industry leader in premium DOT approved reflective tape.