I'm off to Alexandra Palace tomorrow and in the paperwork there is new instruction:
Please note that all exhibitors present during Friday set up and on Sunday break down, effectively during the period when vehicles are present in the hall, will be required to wear hi-vi jackets.
No hi-viz, no setup.
Mentioning this to a friend brought a huffing "Health & Safety gone mad" response, however I beg to differ.
If you have ever driven a van in a confined area (something my friend has never done) then you'll know the challenges involved in maneuvering a 2 ton vehicle around while not squashing anyone, or demolishing a stand. It's bad enough when those driving are the sort of stand setup worked who live in a transit. For us lot you've the added danger of people who hire a van a couple of times a year and don't get the same sort of practise.
So, the regulation may be aimed at "normal" stand setup staff but it's even more appropriate for us. Especially since "us" includes people who will nip in between a moving van and stand assuming that are immune from being squashed. As a driver, I'd like them to clearly visible, it gives me half a chance.
I'd expect this rule to spread to any venue where people and vehicles mix in close confinement. I wouldn't be surprised to see the NEC implement it for a start.
Anyway, I already own a fluorescent yellow jacket but it's a bit bulky to wear when assembling a layout (ideal for waiting for the RAC though) so £6.99 from my local workwear shop bought me a tabard in orange and reflective. For cheapskates, I'm told that Lidl are selling something similar for a couple of quid. If it avoids squishing, money well spent.
No hi-viz, no setup.
Mentioning this to a friend brought a huffing "Health & Safety gone mad" response, however I beg to differ.
If you have ever driven a van in a confined area (something my friend has never done) then you'll know the challenges involved in maneuvering a 2 ton vehicle around while not squashing anyone, or demolishing a stand. It's bad enough when those driving are the sort of stand setup worked who live in a transit. For us lot you've the added danger of people who hire a van a couple of times a year and don't get the same sort of practise.
So, the regulation may be aimed at "normal" stand setup staff but it's even more appropriate for us. Especially since "us" includes people who will nip in between a moving van and stand assuming that are immune from being squashed. As a driver, I'd like them to clearly visible, it gives me half a chance.
I'd expect this rule to spread to any venue where people and vehicles mix in close confinement. I wouldn't be surprised to see the NEC implement it for a start.
Anyway, I already own a fluorescent yellow jacket but it's a bit bulky to wear when assembling a layout (ideal for waiting for the RAC though) so £6.99 from my local workwear shop bought me a tabard in orange and reflective. For cheapskates, I'm told that Lidl are selling something similar for a couple of quid. If it avoids squishing, money well spent.
