6
SECTION III
INSTALLATION
SAFETY MESSAGE TO INSTALLERS
OF
ELECTRONIC SIRENS
People’s lives depend on your proper installation
and servicing of Federal Signal products. It is
important to read and follow all instructions
shipped with this product. In addition, listed below
are some other important safety instructions and
precautions you should follow:
Before Installation
Qualifications
• To properly install an electronic siren, you
must have a good understanding of automotive
electrical procedures and systems, along with
proficiency in the installation and service of
safety warning equipment. Always refer to the
vehicle’s service manuals when performing
equipment installations on a vehicle.
Sound Hazards
• Your hearing and the hearing of others, in or
close to your emergency vehicle, could be
damaged by loud sounds. This can occur from
short exposures to very loud sounds, or from
longer exposures to moderately loud sounds.
For hearing conservation guidance, refer to
federal, state, or local recommendations.
OSHA Standard 1910.95 offers guidance on
“Permissible Noise Exposure.”
• All effective sirens and horns produce loud
sounds (120 dB) that may cause permanent
hearing loss. Always minimize your exposure
to siren sound and wear hearing protection. Do
not sound the siren indoors or in enclosed areas
where you and others will be exposed to the
sound.
• Federal Signal siren amplifier/relay modules
and speakers are designed to work together as
a system. Combining a siren and speaker from
different manufacturers may reduce the warning
effectiveness of the siren system and may
damage the components. You should verify or
test your combination to make sure the system
works together properly and meets federal, state
and local standards or guidelines.
During Installation
• Do NOT get metal shavings inside the product.
Metal shavings in the product can cause the
system to fail. If drilling must be done near the
unit, place an ESD approved cover over the unit
to prevent metal shavings from entering the
unit. Inspect the unit after mounting to be sure
there are no shavings present in or near the unit.
• Do NOT connect this system to the vehicle
battery until ALL other electrical connections
are made, mounting of all components is
complete, and you have verified that no shorts
exist. If wiring is shorted to vehicle frame, high
current conductors can cause hazardous sparks
resulting in electrical fires or flying molten
metal.
• Be sure the siren amplifier/relay module and
speaker(s) in your installation have compatible
wattage ratings.
• In order for the electronic siren to function
properly, the ground connection must be made
to the NEGATIVE battery terminal.
• Sound output will be severely reduced if any
objects are in front of the speaker. If maximum
sound output is required for your application,
you should ensure that the front of the speaker
is clear of any obstructions.
• Install the speaker(s) as far forward on the
vehicle as possible, in a location which
provides maximum signaling effectiveness and
minimizes the sound reaching the vehicle’s
occupants. Refer to the National Institute of
Justice guide 500-00 for further information.
