Do I Need Chapter 8 Markings for My Vehicle?
If you have ever seen vans with bold red and yellow chevrons on the back, you have already encountered Chapter 8 markings. These high-visibility graphics are not just for highway maintenance fleets; they are a vital safety measure for many tradespeople who work on or near fast-moving roads.
So what exactly are Chapter 8 markings, why are they important, and do you need them on your vehicle? Here is what you need to know.
Why Are They Called “Chapter 8” Markings?
The term “Chapter 8” comes from the Traffic Signs Manual (Chapter 8), issued by the UK’s Department for Transport. This manual sets out official guidance for traffic management and safety signage on public roads, including the vehicle conspicuity markings designed to keep workers and other road users safe.
The relevant section, U4.3 Vehicle Conspicuity Markings (TSRGD 2016 S13-6-12 Part 2: Operations), includes:
- When markings are required for vehicles stopping on high-speed roads
- The specification for red and yellow chevron designs
- Reflectivity standards based on road speed
- Coverage requirements and positioning on rear doors, edges and guardrails
What Does Chapter 8 Require?
Chevron Design
- Upward-facing stripes at 45 to 60 degrees
- Alternating red retro-reflective and yellow fluorescent stripes
- Minimum stripe width of 150mm (wider for larger vehicles)
Materials
- Red stripes: Retro-reflective for maximum night-time visibility
- Yellow stripes: Non-reflective but fluorescent for high daytime contrast
Coverage
- Chevrons should cover as much of the vehicle rear as possible without obstructing lights, windows or number plates
At Signs Express, we supply and install vinyl materials that meet the retro-reflective performance standards set out in the Traffic Signs Manual, ensuring your vehicle is fully compliant for both high-speed and low-speed road requirements.
Who Needs Chapter 8 Markings?
The Traffic Signs Manual (Chapter 8) recommends that any vehicle stopping or operating on high-speed roads (40mph and above) for work purposes should display conspicuity markings. This recommendation appears in Section U4.3 and Part 2: Operations O5.2.3.
Following this guidance would therefore include a wide range of trades and industries whose work regularly takes them roadside, for example:
- Builders and civil engineers carrying out road or verge works
- Landscaping or tree surgery teams maintaining highways or public spaces
- Utility contractors maintaining water, gas or telecoms infrastructure
If your vehicle will stop on a live carriageway or roadside hard shoulder, Chapter 8 markings are strongly recommended to meet visibility and safety standards.
Signs Express Solutions: Compliant, Durable and Flexible
At Signs Express, we produce fully Chapter 8-compliant vehicle graphics, including:
- Rear chevron graphics in red and yellow retro-reflective vinyl
- Magnetic Chapter 8 panels for temporary roadside work
- Edge markings and “Highway Maintenance” legends in line with the manual’s recommendations
- Fast turnaround to minimise downtime since we know trades cannot afford to have vans off the road for weeks
Explore our vehicle graphics solutions or check our vehicle wrapping FAQs.
Ready to Get Started?
If your work ever takes you roadside, visibility is not optional, it is essential. Chapter 8 markings do not just tick a compliance box; they protect your team, safeguard the public and reinforce your professionalism.
Speak to your local Signs Express centre today for expert advice and a free quote on Chapter 8-compliant vehicle markings.
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