In recent times the Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) Stewards have become aware that drivers are wearing approved body protectors (safety vests) inside out for comfort reasons.
In order to be approved by Harness Racing Australia (HRA) all body protectors must undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the safety requirements of our industry.
Advice has been received that this testing process is conducted on the body protector in the manner in which the manufacturer intended it to be worn by a driver. This testing process is not performed on the body protector when it is turned inside out.
All participants are advised that effective immediately it is a requirement of the HRV Stewards that all participants wear an approved body protector which is correctly fitted. For the avoidance of doubt the wearing of a body protector inside out will not be deemed to be wearing the body protector in a manner which is correctly fitted.
Drivers are advised that failure to comply with this requirement may result in a breach of Australian Harness Racing Rule (AHRR) 238 and penalties being imposed.
AHRR 238 states:
238. A person shall not fail to comply with any order, direction or requirement of the Controlling Body or the Stewards relating to harness racing or to the harness racing industry.
