The new rule requires all construction vehicles working, entering or leaving ODOT construction sites to be equipped with photo strobe lights, LED warning lights or rotating beacons (SAE Class 1 or Class 2) horizontally visible from all directions, 360 degrees when viewed from 100 ft away. Trucks must also have 2" wide conspicuity tape applied to the rear and sides of the truck.

Due to the many configurations of ready mixed trucks, we asked members to send in photos of how they were installing beacon lights and applying safety tape to comply with the new rule.

Something to consider when purchasing beacon lights for your trucks is that although Class 2 photo strobe lights, LED warning lights or rotating beacons currently meet ODOT requirements, by January 1, 2012 all of these lights must meet Class 1 specifications for color and intensity. After this date, Class 2 lights will not be allowed.

We have been working with ODOT to make this transition as easy as possible for our industry. We know a lot of members are concerned about the urgency of the matter and the expense incurred with meeting the new requirements. However, ORMCA does stand behind ODOT in advocating the importance of safety. Last year there were three fatalities on jobsites, which may have been prevented if proper safety measures were taken. Don’t wait until it is too late. Get your trucks ready today!