Safety is particularly important in road traffic. “In the meantime, the manufacturers of school bags can integrate reflective tape and fluorescent surfaces into great motifs that are very well received by children,” explains Peter Seiner.
He recommends satchels, the surfaces of which are at least ten per cent of retro reflective material at the front and at the sides. This coating radiates back when it is lit. “A further 20 percent of school tuition space should have fluorescent materials that store light and release it only slowly,” the expert said. Because of the better visibility, retro reflective material is also required on the shoulder straps. The GS mark for tested safety as well as certification according to DIN 58124 is indications that the schoolbag has the most important safety features.
It is important to pay attention to ergonomics when purchasing, as the child’s back is more sensitive than that of adults. “The right satchel helps not to strain the back of the schoolchildren too much,” said Seiner. “He has – according to the ergonomic requirements – straps on both sides, which are at least 30 millimeters wide and do not cut at the neck.”
In order to comfortably adjust the satchel for the child, the straps are at least 50 cm long, can be adjusted continuously and are softly padded in the shoulder area. The satchel fits perfectly when it rests against both shoulder blades and closes the upper reflective edge of the shoulder bag with the shoulder height.