The choice of sound power for a reversing alarm is a balance between the need to ensure safety and minimise noise pollution. The general recommendation is that the alarm should be 10 to 15 dB louder than the background noise of the immediate environment to be clearly audible.
Here are the recommended sound powers according to different working environments:
1. Very noisy environment (construction sites, quarries)
Ambient noise: Often greater than 85-90 dB, with significant peaks due to machinery and tools.
Recommended sound power: 100 to 115 dB. Some alarms are even available with sound power up to 120 dB for extreme conditions.
2. Moderately noisy environment (warehouses, industrial areas)
Ambient noise: Typically between 70 and 85 dB.
Recommended sound power: 90 to 105 dB. This is a good compromise to ensure safety without excessively disturbing staff.
3. Quiet environment (logistics areas, urban areas)
Ambient noise: Often below 70 dB.
Recommended sound power: 85 to 95 dB. Higher levels could cause nuisance to local residents and staff.
Type of alarm:
White noise vs. tone: White noise alarms ("Mixed frequencies") are considered safer and more environmentally friendly. They allow a more precise location of the sound source, which is crucial for pedestrians and other workers.
Standards and regulations
Regulations in France and Europe do not set a maximum sound power for reversing alarms on industrial vehicles, but insist on safety and the prevention of occupational risks. The European standard UNECE R138, although mainly aimed at electric vehicles for their low noise, stresses the importance of audible warning systems.
Employers are required to put in place measures to reduce noise-related risks, which may include the use of less intrusive white noise reversing alarms or the establishment of specific traffic zones for pedestrians.
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