New Brussels Legislation on Special Sound Devices

Effective Date: January 1, 2025 (Chapter II, applicable to emergency vehicles first registered from that date)

Publication: Belgian Official Gazette, January 10, 2024

1. What does this new legislation entail?

The Brussels Capital Region Government has established new rules for the use of so-called special sound devices (such as sirens and loudspeakers) on emergency vehicles. These rules are intended to limit noise pollution while ensuring the safety and audibility of emergency services.

2. Why is this relevant for AEB customers?

AEB supplies sirens and loudspeakers used by fire, police, and ambulance services, among others. The new Brussels legislation imposes strict requirements on:

  • The maximum sound level of the siren.
  • The frequencies and tone pattern of the siren.
  • Technical inspection and required certification dossier.

From January 1, 2025, all newly registered emergency vehicles operating within the Brussels Capital Region must comply with these provisions. Vehicles registered before this date must be checked and, if necessary, adjusted at the next intervention or (technical) inspection.

3. Key Technical Requirements

  1. Maximum Sound Level  
    • Daytime: max. 100 dB(A) at 7 meters distance.
    • Night: max. 90 dB(A).
    • If a 7-meter distance cannot be maintained, a correction factor is used to measure the level at 3 meters.
  3. Frequency Range and Tone Alternation
    • The frequency range must be between 350 Hz and 560 Hz.
    • The siren must alternate between two tones, each lasting 25-30 tones per minute.
  5. Prohibition of Pneumatic Sirens
    • 4 years after implementation (around 2029), pneumatic sirens (air horns) will no longer be allowed in the Brussels Capital Region.
    • Electronic sirens that meet the new standards remain permitted.  
  7. Certificate of Conformity
    • Installers (or manufacturers) must provide a certificate indicating that the siren complies with the new noise standards.
    • Inspections by Brussels Environment and at technical inspections.

4. Implications for Our AEB Products

  • AEB Sirens and Loudspeakers: 
    Our current sirens and loudspeakers largely meet international standards (including IEC 61672-1, IEC 60942). We continue to optimize our products to meet the maximum sound levels and frequency requirements in the Brussels Capital Region.
  • Compatibility and Retrofit: 
    Emergency services wishing to upgrade their existing sirens can turn to AEB for new, compliant devices. Replacing pneumatic sirens with an electronic system is also an option.
  • Certification and Documentation:
    • We can assist in preparing the required documentation to demonstrate that our sirens do not exceed legal noise limits.
    • After (re)installation, we issue a certificate of conformity, in collaboration with certified installers.

5. Benefits of AEB Solutions

  1. Low Sound Pressure, High Audibility: 
    Thanks to our product development technology, we keep the sound pressure within legal limits while ensuring the signal remains clearly audible in urban environments.
  2. Flexible Tone Design: 
    Our sirens can be set to various tone patterns and frequency intervals, in accordance with the requirements of Brussels legislation.
  3. Support for Certification:
    • AEB provides measurement reports and technical specifications.
    • We can assist in obtaining the required certificate of conformity.
  5. Future-Proof: 
    By complying with the new Brussels legislation in time, you avoid the need for emergency vehicles to be taken out of circulation for unexpected modifications. Additionally, you help reduce noise pollution, aligning with European guidelines on environment and public health.

6. Practical Steps for Emergency Services and Installers

  1. Contact AEB: 
    Discuss which sirens are currently in your fleet and whether they can continue to be used. We offer free advice on potential replacements or upgrades.
  2. Check Current Certificates:
    • Ensure each vehicle has an up-to-date certificate of conformity.
    • If existing sirens do not meet the standards, plan a replacement or adjustment.
  4. Consider the Transition from Pneumatic Sirens:
    • These will no longer be permitted 4 years after implementation. Consider switching to electronic sirens from AEB in good time.

7. Questions or More Information?

  • Official Sources: The full decree can be found in the Belgian Official Gazette of January 10, 2024.
  • Contact AEB: Feel free to reach out to our experts. We assist with technical questions, assembling the right siren system, and the necessary documentation for certification.

Conclusion

The new Brussels legislation sets strict requirements for special sound devices (sirens) on emergency vehicles but also provides a clear framework for safety and livability in urban areas. At AEB, you can find sirens and loudspeakers that meet the standards, with maximum sound levels, correct frequency range, and proper certification.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace the official legal text.