The Society for engineering in agricultural, food, and biological systems (ASAE), which develops standards for specific agricultural equipment and materials, has a standard for the design and manufacture of Slow-Moving Vehicle (SMV) emblems. This standard specifies the quality and durability of the yellow-orange fluorescent triangle that provides daylight identification of slow-moving vehicles. Under this standard, the fluorescent center-piece is fade resistant, making it durable over an extended period of time.
One important feature of this standard is the placement of the manufacturer's name and address on the emblem and a statement that this emblem meets the requirements of the ASAE. An example of this certification and location is shown on the SMV below. Requirements for the SMV emblem are also summarized:
The term "highway" as used in the Code, is officially defined as "the entire width between the boundary lines of every way publicly maintained when any part thereof is open to public use for purposes of vehicular traffic."
Emblems that have a metal or plastic backing, as well as decal emblems, are suitable for use. The emblem should be seen from a distance of at least 600 feet day or night. The fluorescent yellow-orange center is the most visible color in daylight, and the red reflective border is highly visible in headlight beams after dark.
Farmers should replace faded SMVs with newer emblems as soon as they begin to fade. All slow-moving vehicles should have the ASAE standard SMV emblem properly displayed at all times.
For questions on obtaining SMV emblems, contact EH&S at 737-2273.