SAE J595 – Directional Flashing Optical Warning Devices for Authorized Emergency, Maintenance, and Service Vehicles

Standard: SAE J595: Directional Flashing Optical Warning Devices for Authorized Emergency, Maintenance, and Service Vehicles

Scope: SAE J595 defines the design, performance, and testing requirements for directional, single-color, flashing optical warning devices used on authorized emergency, maintenance, and service vehicles. These devices are critical for ensuring visibility and safety in roadside and emergency scenarios. The standard supports compliance with regulatory and operational requirements across North America and is essential for manufacturers of lighting systems used in public safety, utility, and fleet vehicles.

Applicable Products:
This standard applies to:

• Directional flashing warning lights
• Single-color optical devices
• Surface land vehicles including police, fire, EMS, utility, and maintenance fleets

Test Procedure: In our specialized test lab, we conduct SAE J595 using state‑of‑the‑art equipment to ensure accurate and reliable results. The test procedures include:

• Photometric Testing: Measures luminous intensity at specified angles, ensures visibility under various ambient lighting conditions, and includes adjustment factors for untested flash patterns based on tested patterns.

• Color Testing: Verifies compliance with chromaticity coordinates for each approved color and ensures consistent color output across production batches.

• Environmental Testing: Moisture Resistance: Simulates exposure to rain and humidity, Dust Ingress: Evaluates enclosure sealing and optical clarity, Thermal Cycling: Assesses performance under temperature extremes, and Vibration Testing: Ensures mechanical integrity during vehicle operation.
• Durability and Construction: Evaluates housing materials, lens clarity, and mounting integrity and ensures long-term reliability in harsh environments.

End Result: Successful completion of SAE J595 confirms that lighting products meet the highest standards for safety, reliability, and performance.

Test Lab Locations: Cortland, NY; Grand Rapids (Kentwood), MI

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