Flashing Light for Warning or to Indicate Danger
Flashing lights, also known as warning beacons, are safety devices used on vehicles and equipment to alert people to their presence and movement.
Flashing Lights or Safety Beacons
Flashing lights, also known as safety beacons or warning lights are crucial safety features for automatic gates, designed to alert both pedestrians and vehicles to the gate’s operation. These lights typically activate when the gate begins to open or close, providing a clear and visible indication of movement. This functionality is essential in preventing accidents, as it draws attention to the gate’s motion, particularly in low visibility conditions or busy environments where the gate’s movement might otherwise go unnoticed.
The flashing lights are engineered to be exceptionally bright, ensuring visibility from a distance and alerting anyone approaching the gate about its current status. This advance warning allows individuals to exercise caution and avoid potential injury or damage. Incorporating flashing lights into an automatic gate system is a standard practice that significantly enhances safety and ensures the efficient operation of automated entrances and exits.
The EL series further improves safety with an integrated loud buzzer that activates simultaneously with the light. This additional auditory alert provides an extra layer of warning, making it even easier for people to recognize the gate’s operation from afar.
Flashing lights are versatile and can be used on a variety of equipment, including trucks, carts, forklifts, automatic gates, doors, roller doors and rapid closing doors. They are ideal for any application that requires a visual signal to indicate potential danger or provide warnings. By integrating flashing lights into your safety systems, you enhance overall visibility and reduce the risk of accidents, ensuring a safer environment for everyone.
Enhance your property’s security and convenience with automatic gates. Learn more about different gate types, features and safety in this detailed article.
Elsema: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of an Elsema flashing light?
The primary purpose is to act as a visual safety warning. These lights alert pedestrians and vehicle drivers that an automatic gate, roller door, or piece of industrial equipment (like a forklift) is in motion. This is particularly crucial in high-traffic or low-visibility environments to prevent accidents.
When do these lights typically activate?
In a standard gate automation setup, the flashing light is wired to the control card so that it activates the moment the gate begins its opening or closing cycle. It continues to flash until the movement is complete, providing a clear danger or caution signal throughout the operation. When used on Elsema control cards they can also be configured to come on before the gate or door starts to move.
What is the difference between the E80 and E80L series?
While both series serve as safety beacons, they vary in their physical design and light output. The E80 series is a compact warning light, whereas the E80L series offers different structural housing. Both operate on a 12–24 Volt DC supply and produce between 60 and 80 flashes per minute.
Are there options for auditory warnings?
Yes, the flashing lights integrate a loud internal buzzer with the flashing light. This provides a dual-sensory warning (visual and auditory), which is highly effective for industrial sites where workers may not always have a direct line of sight to the moving gate or door.
What are the power requirements for these beacons?
Most Elsema flashing lights, including the E80 and ST12 series, are designed to run on low-voltage DC power (12V – 24V DC). This allows them to be powered directly from the accessory output of most gate control cards without the need for additional high-voltage wiring.
Can these lights be used on vehicles?
Yes, due to their robust design and low power consumption, these beacons are frequently used on trucks, service carts, and forklifts to improve visibility and safety in warehouses and construction sites.
How many flashes per minute do these lights produce?
Depending on the specific model, the flash rate is generally between 60 and 90 flashes per minute. This rate is specifically chosen to be highly noticeable to the human eye without being disorienting.
Are these lights available in different colours?
Yes, Elsema provides various colour options to suit different safety protocols. While amber is the industry standard for warning of moving gates, they are also available in red, green and blue.
Are these lights weatherproof for outdoor installation?
Yes. These safety beacons are engineered for outdoor use. They are constructed with UV-stabilized materials and sealed housings to withstand rain, dust, and the harsh Australian sun, ensuring long-term reliability on external gate posts.
How do LED strobe lights compare to older bulb-based versions?
Elsema’s modern beacons use LED technology, which offers several advantages:
- Longevity: LEDs last significantly longer than traditional filament bulbs.
- Energy Efficiency: They draw much less current, making them ideal for solar-powered gate systems.
- Durability: LEDs are solid-state and far more resistant to the vibrations often found on industrial gates or moving machinery.
