Realizing that they would be putting firefighters in jeopardy by requiring them to wear a vest that doesn't meet NFPA standards, federal officials have modified a new law.

Firefighters working along highways will be exempt from wearing high-visibility vests while they are actively engaged in or in close proximity to flame, high heat, flames or hazardous materials.

Federal Highway Administration officials announced the modifications Friday based on concerns posed by fire service organizations.

The regulation that goes into effect Monday, Nov. 24 requires anyone -- police officers, EMS crews, tow truck drivers and first responders -- working on a federally-funded highway to wear a high-visibility vest.

However, fire officials have voiced concern that the garments do not meet standards and should not be worn by personnel engaged in firefighting activities.

Apparently, federal officials listened, and revised the law.

They have decided to "exempt firefighters from the requirement to use high-visibility safety apparel, as defined in this rule, when they are exposed to hazardous conditions where the use of such apparel may increase the risk of injury to firefighter personnel."

Steve Austin, a responder safety advocate with the Cumberland Valley Firemen's Association, said he was pleased with the revision.

"This is exactly what we've been telling them," he said, adding that all the major fire organizations have been promoting the safety issue.

"I'm pleased that it's been changed before it takes effect," Austin said, adding that he's received numerous calls in the past few days from fire officials asking about the regulation.

Until the modification was announced, officials were told they would have to wait until next year.

This is from firehouse.com

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