Enhancing the daytime conspicuity of pedestrians through the usage of fluorescent materials

Abstract

AbstractThe issue of daytime, pedestrian visibility, especially where occupational activities are involved, can be well served by bringing existing and related knowledge on high‐visibility materials together with new product capabilities. Formulated strategically, this information can beneficially serve the personal safety of our society. This particular form of personal safety involves being seen, most critically, by operators of motorized vehicles. Therefore, the issues of visibility, visibility enhancement, and conspicuity are focused upon through the use of high‐visibility materials. High‐visibility materials include but are not limited to retroreflective forms. In daytime and dusk/dawn conditions, fluorescent‐colored products can serve as high‐visibility materials used to effectively generate enhanced conspicuity. the time has now come to more aggressively research what we may intuitively believe and then apply this knowledge. to more fully grasp what is involved, we must take into account the following: 1. a basic understanding of fluorescence, 2. basic human vision and perception, 3. situations calling for enhanced conspicuity, 4. strategies for use, 5. product development, 6. specfications, guidelines and standards, 7. public education, and awareness. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.