Brigade Electronics is to phase out beeping tonal alarms over the next two years in favour of a safer alternative that does not cause a noise nuisance.
The move follows a surge in noise complaints from tonal alarms and the success of its patented white sound reversing alarms (bbs-tek).
Tom Brett, marketing director of Brigade, explains: "In 1976, when we introduced the first reversing alarm to Europe, there was no alternative. The shrill beeping warned of imminent danger and thus saved lives.
"But with so many vehicles now fitted with reversing alarms, they have gained the reputation of causing a noise nuisance and even confusion. With white sound you only hear it when it matters."
White sound reversing alarms are safer because people can pinpoint the precise location and direction of a reversing vehicle, he says.
Stewart Dodd, workshop team leader at Dundee City council, which operates a fleet of vehicles, agrees, saying: "We fit white sound reversing alarms to everything, from vans to 32 tonne hook loaders.
"The alarms are good for vehicles going out early in the morning, especially refuse vehicles. The localised sound at the back of the vehicle alerts people and pedestrians without waking up residents."
