Interpretation ID: nht67-1.3

DATE: 08/17/67

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; George C. Nield; NHTSA

TO: Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association, Inc.

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT: Thank you for your letter addressed to Dr. Haddon, dated June 19, 1967, which has been referred to me for reply to your inquiry concerning the effect of Motor Vehicle Safety Standards on fire trucks.

The purpose of Standard No. 107 is to reduce the likelihood that unacceptable glare from reflecting surfaces in the driver's field of view will hinder the safe and normal operation of the motor vehicle. At present, paragraph S4, "Requirements," only covers windshield wiper arms and blades, inside windshield mouldings, horn ring and hub of the steering wheel, and inside rearview mirror frame and mounting bracket.

The initial Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards contain no mandatory requirement for seat belt installations or seat belt anchorages in trucks. However, if seat belts are installed in trucks they must conform to Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 209, effective March 1, 1967.

Sincerely,

FIRE APPARATUS MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

June 19, 1967

William Haddon, Jr. Administrator National Traffic Safety Agency

Dear Dr. Haddon:

Our concern is about Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 107. In it view, glare, brightness, and reflection is set forth. Is the use of chrome prohibited because of its reflective qualities either inside the vehicle or on the outside of the vehicle? As you are aware, fire trucks have a considerable amount of chrome in their make-up.

One further question would be as to the seat belt assembly requirements. It is our understanding that only the anchoring point is necessary to be installed in the equipment as of March 1, 1967. The actual installation of the seat belt itself is an optional piece of equipment.

May we hear from you?

Very truly yours,

E.L. Koepenick Secretary-Treasurer