Solar Warning Lamps & Flashing Lights in Canada
Solar Warning Lamps & Flashing Lights — Visibility, Mounting & Runtime (Canada)
1) Where are solar lamps used?
- On barriers/barricades and delineator posts to mark lanes or closures.
- At approaches and curves, docks, and facility gates.
- On parking equipment (entrances/exits), speed humps, or temporary hazards.
- With portable EN/FR signs to attract attention.
2) Lamp types & optics — steady, flashing, and directional.
| Type | What it does | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 360° beacons | Omni warning, seen from all directions | Barriers, cones, posts, general hazard |
| Directional lamps | Asymmetric lens throws light forward | Approach guidance, crosswalk approaches |
| Steady-burn | Continuous light (no flash) | Crosswalks, critical points, signage backlight |
| Flashing | Pulsed visibility with low power draw | Work zones, perimeter marking |
3) Battery chemistry, panel size & cold-weather runtime.
- Battery: Prefer LiFePO4 (handles cold, long cycle life). Quality NiMH is acceptable; avoid generic Li-ion in deep cold.
- Solar panel: Bigger is better in winter. Look for ≥ 1.5–2.5 W on compact units; more on high-output beacons.
- Runtime: Demand at least 3–5 nights autonomy after a full charge; more for steady-burn units.
4) Flash patterns & visibility ranges.
- Work zone flash: ~60–120 FPM (flashes per minute) is typical.
- Sequential/taper lights: staggered flash guides drivers through chicanes or merges.
- Crosswalk/critical hazard: steady-burn or rapid wig-wag pair for unmistakable attention.
- Don’t pick aggressive patterns for indoor spaces — it’s distracting and pointless.
5) Mounting options on posts, cones & barriers.
- Top-mount posts/cones: M6/M8 stud or twist-lock bases.
- Barrier mount: bolt-through or clamp brackets; keep below snowplow blade height.
- Wall/rail mount: L-brackets or magnet bases for forklifts/metal guards.
- Anti-theft: tamper-proof screws and security cable in public areas.
6) Ingress protection (IP), impact, and vandal resistance.
- IP rating: target IP67–IP68 for snow/salt exposure.
- Housing: polycarbonate lenses with UV stabilizers; avoid brittle ABS in cold.
- Impact: look for IK rating or reinforced lens rings; recessed lenses last longer.
7) Colour coding (amber/red/blue/white) — when to use what.
- Amber (yellow): general caution, work zones, parking control.
- Red: stop/closure end points; wrong-way indications.
- Blue: accessibility/EMS indicators in lots (site policy dependent).
- White: general visibility, signage backlight.
- FR/EN: Respecter la couleur prescrite par l’autorité locale / Use colours allowed by the AHJ.
8) Maintenance & seasonal checks (EN/FR).
- Quarterly: clean panels/lenses; salt film kills charging efficiency.
- Verify flash pattern and dusk/dawn sensor operation.
- Swap batteries that won’t hold charge through a winter night.
- FR/EN: Nettoyer les panneaux solaires régulièrement / Clean solar panels regularly.
9) Common mistakes that kill performance.
- Buying tiny panels and expecting winter runtime.
- Mounting under eaves/trees — zero sun, zero charge.
- Using non-sealed units on salted roads — corrosion kills them fast.
- Picking novelty patterns that don’t match the site’s safety intent.
10) Bundles & related hardware.
- Barriers & Barricades with lamp mounts
- Posts & Delineators + chains/belts
- Reflective boards for guidance
- Road studs/markers for approaches
- Portable EN/FR signs at entries
- Traffic cones for quick closures
Important Legal/Compliance Note (Canada)
This page is informational and not legal advice. Use of warning lamps on public roads in Canada must align with the applicable Traffic Control Device Manuals (MUTCDC/TAC) and provincial/municipal specifications (e.g., Ontario OTM Book 7, Québec Tome V, BC TMM). Colour, flash patterns, placement, and brightness may be regulated. For private workplaces, follow Occupational Health & Safety and accessibility requirements. Where a standard or by-law specifies device performance or use, that document prevails. Consult your authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) for site-specific approval.
Explore more
The Biri Group is a supplier of building materials that specializes in the production and manufacture of road and traffic safety products, including traffic signs, building materials, and hoses.
At Biri Group, we are dedicated to providing innovative solutions for road and traffic safety. Our portfolio includes a wide range of products, including traffic signs, building materials, and hoses. Our state-of-the-art production and manufacturing unit, Biri Industries, located in RAK, allows us to efficiently produce products to meet the demands of the market.
Our commitment to excellence extends beyond just our products. We believe in building long-lasting relationships with our customers and partners and providing exceptional customer service. Our team of experts is always available to assist with any questions or concerns and provide guidance on selecting the right product for your needs.
At Biri Group, we are constantly striving to improve and offer better, stronger products. We take pride in our ability to adapt to the changing market and provide innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers.
Thank you for considering Biri Group for your traffic safety needs. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you and help make your roads safer.