Regulations and Standards for Amber & Blue signaling products
- General Rules and Application of Signal Lamps
Amber signal lamps are intended for vehicles that create a temporary hazardous situation, such as maintenance and service vehicles. Blue signal lamps are permitted exclusively for priority vehicles (e.g., police, fire brigade, and ambulance) and may only be used in emergencies. - Detailed Mounting Instructions for Signal Lamps
When installing signal lights, attention must be paid to the height, visibility, and mounting. These regulations ensure the effectiveness of the lighting and guarantee that the installation complies with European standards.
General Mounting Requirements
Signal lamps must meet visibility standards as outlined in ECE R65 and electromagnetic compatibility guidelines as defined in EMC R10.
- E-marking: All approved signal lamps must bear an E-mark, indicating compliance with European requirements.
- R65: This standard includes requirements for visibility, color, and intensity, ensuring that signal lamps are clearly visible from specific angles and distances.
- EMC R10: This standard ensures that lighting does not cause interference with other electronic systems.
Placement and Height of Signal Lamps - Height Requirements: Signal lamps must be mounted at least 2.5 meters above the ground to ensure maximum visibility, especially on larger vehicles. This placement prevents obstructions from other vehicle parts and ensures visibility from various angles.
- Visibility and Angle: According to R65 guidelines, signal lamps must be visible from an angle of 10 to 90 degrees up to a distance of 50 meters in the dark. Blue signal lamps should be centrally placed on the vehicle (e.g., on the roof) for optimal visibility from all angles. If cargo or vehicle parts obstruct visibility, additional lamps may be required.
Class 1 and Class 2 Light Intensity
The light intensity of signal lamps is classified into Class 1 and Class 2: - Class 1: Suitable for use in low-light conditions, with a lower intensity that provides adequate visibility in low ambient light. This class is often used for amber signal lamps that are visible at night or in normal conditions.
- Class 2: Designed for daytime use, with a higher intensity necessary for visibility in daylight. This class provides stronger intensity to ensure visibility under bright conditions, ideal for vehicles operating in sunny or challenging visibility environments.
Technical Specifications and Mounting Instructions - Flash Frequency and Intensity: The flash frequency for amber lamps should be between 1 Hz and 4 Hz. For blue lamps, the light intensity must be at least 100 cd, as defined in ECE R65.
- Color Consistency: Amber lamps must meet color requirements for yellow-orange, and blue lamps must exhibit a specific blueness that is clearly visible, as defined by standards.
- Mounting and Stability: Signal lamps must be securely mounted using rust-free fasteners and withstand weather conditions. A minimum IP65 rating is required for water and dust resistance, providing essential protection for equipment exposed to harsh conditions.
- Cable Protection and EMC Guidelines: Wiring must comply with EMC R10 to prevent interference and ensure stable operation.
Summary: When Can You Use Signal Lamps?
- Amber Lamps: Activate only when the vehicle poses a potential obstruction to other road users (e.g., stopped along the roadside). Not intended for continuous use during normal driving.
- Blue Lamps: Exclusively for priority vehicles and only in emergencies to indicate priority on the road.
This document serves as a reference for meeting legal requirements and installation standards. AEB recommends using certified products and having installation performed by a professional to ensure optimal compliance with standards.