"Danger" flashing light sign
"Danger" flashing light sign - W346
Road Signs - W346
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"Danger" flashing light sign
Category:
Safety Sign Code:
- W346
Product Description
Emergency Flashing Light – W346 Road Sign
The W346 Emergency Flashing Light road sign is a South African warning sign used to draw the attention of drivers and other road users to a hazardous condition ahead.
The official South African road traffic sign designation is W346 EMERGENCY FLASHING LIGHT. The sign incorporates an intermittent flashing yellow circular light within the warning sign to reinforce the warning and attract attention to an existing hazard.
W346 is normally used together with another warning sign. The flashing light adds emphasis, while the accompanying warning sign communicates the specific nature of the hazard.
What Does the W346 Road Sign Mean?
W346 means Emergency Flashing Light. It warns road users that a hazard exists ahead and uses a flashing yellow light to draw additional attention to the warning.
The flashing light does not by itself tell drivers what the hazard is. The accompanying warning sign or traffic-control arrangement provides that information.
W346 is therefore an attention-enhancing warning device rather than a standalone description of a particular road hazard.
Why Is the W346 Sign Important?
Some road conditions are unusually hazardous or require a warning sign to attract more attention than would normally be provided by the sign alone.
The intermittent flashing yellow light is intended to make the warning more noticeable to approaching road users.
This can be useful where additional emphasis is needed because of unusual road conditions, an incident or another significant hazard.
When Is W346 Used?
The SARTSM states that W346 may be installed permanently to draw attention to road conditions that are unusually hazardous.
It should be used to supplement another warning sign and give that warning additional emphasis.
W346 should therefore not normally be treated as a replacement for the warning sign that identifies the actual hazard.
W346 Is Not the Same as a General Warning Sign
W346 and W339 General Warning have different functions.
- W346: Adds a flashing yellow light to reinforce a warning about a hazard.
- W339: Provides a general warning for a general or random hazard, normally with supplementary information explaining the hazard.
W346 focuses on drawing attention to a warning, while W339 communicates a general hazard.
W346 Should Supplement Another Warning Sign
One of the most important characteristics of W346 is that the flashing light does not replace the need for an appropriate warning sign.
The SARTSM explains that the sign should supplement another warning sign to provide additional emphasis.
The other warning sign identifies the specific hazard, while the flashing yellow light helps attract the driver's attention to that warning.
Examples of Hazards That May Need Extra Emphasis
Depending on the location and traffic-management requirements, W346 may be relevant where an existing warning sign needs additional emphasis because conditions are unusually hazardous.
Examples may include:
- Unexpected hazardous road conditions
- Temporary incidents
- Unusual roadway hazards
- Locations where an existing warning requires additional attention
- Other situations where the applicable traffic-management assessment supports an emergency flashing light
The actual warning sign should still identify the nature of the hazard.
W346 and the Flashing Yellow Light
The W346 sign uses an intermittent flashing yellow circular light.
The SARTSM specifies that the flashing light should have a periodicity of approximately one second.
The minimum diameter of the light disc is 150 mm.
The sign should be designed so that the flashing light is clearly visible to approaching traffic while, as far as possible, preventing the light from being seen from directions to which the warning does not apply.
W346 and Flashing Yellow Warning Signals
The South African traffic-sign system also defines a Flashing Yellow Warning Signal (SS3).
SS3 may be used to warn road users of a particular hazard or traffic-control device and forms part of the emergency flashing light warning sign W346 or TW346.
The flashing yellow signal is intended to reinforce the warning rather than replace the road sign that identifies the hazard.
W346 and Night-Time Visibility
A flashing yellow light can provide an additional visual cue during darkness and other low-light conditions.
The SARTSM requires the sign to be designed so that the flashing light is conspicuous without creating unnecessary glare or being visible from directions where the warning does not apply.
The intensity and installation of the light should therefore be suitable for the location and operating conditions.
W346 and Daytime Visibility
W346 is not limited to night-time use. The sign and flashing light can operate during the day or according to the operating arrangement required at the site.
The flashing light should remain conspicuous without obscuring or distracting from the warning sign itself.
W346 Sign Placement
W346 should be positioned in advance of the hazard.
The SARTSM states that the sign should be located at a distance in accordance with the applicable Table 3.1 requirements.
Where W346 is used together with another warning sign, the two signs should be separated by a distance of V metres, where V is the operating speed in kilometres per hour.
W346 and Another Warning Sign
When another warning sign is used with W346, the warning signs should be arranged so that drivers can recognise the hazard and receive the additional flashing-light emphasis in sufficient time.
The spacing between signs should follow the applicable SARTSM requirements and the conditions at the location.
W346 and Specific Warning Signs
W346 can be associated with a variety of specific warning signs where additional emphasis is warranted.
For example, a flashing yellow warning light may reinforce a warning sign concerning an unusually hazardous roadway condition.
The selected warning sign should describe the actual hazard, while W346 provides additional attention.
W346 and W339 General Warning
W339 is the General Warning sign and is normally accompanied by supplementary information explaining the hazard.
W346 is an Emergency Flashing Light that reinforces another warning sign.
They can therefore serve different roles within a traffic-management arrangement.
Temporary Emergency Flashing Light – TW346
The temporary version of W346 is designated TW346.
TW346 may be used under the same general circumstances as W346 where temporary additional emphasis is required.
The SARTSM specifically allows TW346 to be used as a temporary portable sign.
TW346 for Temporary Hazards
Temporary road conditions and incidents can create hazards that require additional warning for approaching traffic.
TW346 can be used as part of a temporary traffic-management arrangement where additional emphasis is required and the applicable requirements are met.
The sign should be removed, relocated or changed when the temporary hazard or traffic-management requirement no longer applies.
TW346 Portable Sign
Because TW346 may be used as a portable warning sign, it can be suitable for situations where the warning needs to be deployed at a temporary location.
The SARTSM specifies that the reverse side of a portable TW346 should be marked with black and yellow horizontal stripes.
This helps identify the sign as a temporary portable traffic-control device.
Permanent W346 Sign Design and Colours
The permanent W346 sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Yellow flashing light
- Background: White retroreflective
The yellow flashing light is the active element that provides the additional visual warning.
Temporary TW346 Sign Design and Colours
The temporary TW346 sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Yellow flashing light
- Background: Yellow retroreflective
The temporary sign therefore uses the yellow background associated with temporary warning signs while retaining the flashing yellow warning light.
W346 Light Operation
The flashing light should operate intermittently rather than as a continuously illuminated steady light.
The SARTSM specifies a periodicity of approximately one second for the W346 flashing light.
The installation should also ensure that the light is clearly visible to the intended approaching traffic.
W346 Light Disc Size
The minimum light disc diameter specified for W346 is 150 mm.
The equipment should be installed so that the disc remains visible without obscuring the warning sign or creating unnecessary glare.
W346 and Glare
The flashing light should be conspicuous, but its brightness should not interfere unnecessarily with the visibility of the sign or create excessive glare.
The installation should also limit visibility of the light from directions where the warning does not apply.
W346 and Road Traffic Signs
W346 is part of a wider road traffic-sign system in which warning signs communicate hazards to approaching road users.
The flashing light strengthens the visual presence of the warning but does not provide the detailed hazard information by itself.
For public-road applications, the complete sign combination should comply with the applicable South African road traffic sign requirements.
W346 on Public Roads in South Africa
On public roads, W346 and TW346 should be selected, installed and operated according to the applicable South African road traffic sign requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
The warning should correspond to an actual hazardous condition and should be reviewed when road conditions change.
W346 on Private Roads and Properties
Similar flashing-warning arrangements may also be used on private roads and controlled properties where an unusually hazardous condition requires additional attention.
Potential applications include:
- Industrial facilities
- Mining sites
- Warehouses
- Construction sites
- Private estates
- Commercial properties
- Large parking facilities
- Private access roads
- Farms
- Game reserves and lodges
On private property, the arrangement should form part of a suitable internal traffic-management system based on the actual site conditions.
W346 at Construction Sites
Construction and maintenance areas may contain temporary hazards that require additional warning.
Where the applicable requirements support the use of a flashing warning light, TW346 may be incorporated into the temporary traffic-management arrangement.
Other temporary warning signs, barriers, cones and traffic-control devices may also be required according to the work-zone conditions.
W346 and Traffic Incidents
Traffic incidents can create unusual hazards that require approaching drivers to pay additional attention.
Where an appropriate warning sign is already being used and additional emphasis is necessary, W346 or TW346 may form part of the traffic-management arrangement where applicable.
W346 and Emergency Response
Emergency-response situations may require rapid deployment of temporary warning devices.
TW346 can be used as a portable warning sign where an emergency or temporary hazard requires the additional visual emphasis provided by a flashing yellow light.
The complete response should follow the applicable incident-management and traffic-control procedures.
W346 and Warning Sign Visibility
The sign should be visible from the approach direction far enough in advance for drivers to recognise the warning and respond appropriately.
Potential obstructions include:
- Vegetation
- Buildings
- Roadside structures
- Other traffic signs
- Advertising boards
- Sharp curves
- Road crests
- Temporary construction equipment
The installation should be inspected to ensure that the flashing light and the warning sign remain visible.
W346 Maintenance
W346 requires attention to both the physical sign and the flashing-light equipment.
Maintenance inspections can include:
- Checking the flashing light operation
- Checking the flash timing
- Checking the light visibility
- Cleaning the sign face
- Checking for damage
- Checking mounting hardware
- Checking electrical or control equipment where applicable
- Removing obstructions around the sign
A non-functioning flashing light may prevent the installation from providing the intended additional emphasis.
W346 and Electrical Equipment
Because W346 incorporates an active flashing light, the installation includes electrical or lighting equipment in addition to the physical road sign.
The equipment should be selected and installed appropriately for its environment and maintained so that the flashing signal operates as intended.
W346 and Solar-Powered Installations
For locations without a convenient mains electrical supply, a solar-powered flashing-light installation may be considered where suitable and compliant equipment is available.
The power system should be designed for the operating requirements of the site, including the intended hours of operation and local environmental conditions.
W346 and Battery Backup
Temporary or remote installations may also use battery-supported flashing-light equipment where appropriate.
The battery capacity, charging system and operating schedule should be suitable for the intended application.
Who May Need W346 Emergency Flashing Light Signs?
W346 or TW346 may be relevant to:
- Road authorities
- Municipalities
- Traffic-management contractors
- Road maintenance contractors
- Road construction contractors
- Emergency-response teams
- Mining operations
- Industrial facilities
- Construction-site managers
- Property managers
- Private estate managers
- Commercial property operators
Benefits of W346 Emergency Flashing Light Signs
- Draws additional attention to a warning sign.
- Uses an intermittent yellow flashing light to reinforce the warning.
- Can highlight unusually hazardous road conditions.
- Can supplement another warning sign rather than replacing it.
- Can be installed permanently for suitable hazardous road conditions.
- TW346 provides a temporary portable option.
- Can be used as part of temporary incident and traffic-management arrangements.
- Can improve the visual prominence of a warning arrangement, subject to correct installation and operating conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About W346 Road Signs
What does W346 mean?
W346 means Emergency Flashing Light. It warns road users of a hazard ahead using an intermittent flashing yellow circular light.
What is the official name of W346?
The official South African designation is EMERGENCY FLASHING LIGHT.
Is W346 a danger sign?
W346 is a warning sign used to draw additional attention to a hazard. Its official designation is Emergency Flashing Light.
What colour is the W346 flashing light?
The W346 warning light is yellow and flashes intermittently.
How fast does the W346 light flash?
The SARTSM specifies a periodicity of approximately one second.
What is the minimum W346 light diameter?
The minimum flashing-light disc diameter is 150 mm.
Can W346 be used by itself?
W346 is intended to supplement another warning sign. The accompanying sign communicates the specific nature of the hazard.
What does W346 warn drivers about?
It draws attention to a hazardous condition ahead. The accompanying warning sign identifies the actual hazard.
What is TW346?
TW346 is the temporary version of the Emergency Flashing Light warning sign.
Can TW346 be portable?
Yes. The SARTSM allows TW346 to be used as a temporary portable warning sign.
What is shown on the back of a portable TW346?
The reverse side should have black and yellow horizontal stripes.
What colours does permanent W346 use?
Permanent W346 uses a red retroreflective triangle, yellow flashing-light symbol and white retroreflective background.
What colours does TW346 use?
Temporary TW346 uses a red retroreflective triangle, yellow flashing-light symbol and yellow retroreflective background.
Where should W346 be placed?
It should be positioned in advance of the hazard according to the applicable SARTSM requirements and operating speed.
How far should W346 be from another warning sign?
Where another warning sign is used, the SARTSM specifies a separation of V metres, where V is the operating speed in km/h.
Can W346 be used permanently?
Yes. It may be installed permanently to draw attention to road conditions that are unusually hazardous.
Can W346 be used temporarily?
Yes. TW346 can be used for temporary situations where additional warning emphasis is required.
Can W346 be used at roadworks?
Yes. TW346 may be used as part of a suitable temporary roadworks traffic-management arrangement.
Can W346 be used for accidents?
It may form part of an appropriate temporary warning arrangement where additional emphasis is required at an incident.
Can W346 be used on private property?
Similar flashing warning arrangements may be used on private roads and controlled properties where an unusually hazardous condition requires additional attention.
Is W346 the same as W339?
No. W339 is a General Warning sign, while W346 is an Emergency Flashing Light used to reinforce another warning.
Does W346 impose a speed limit?
No. W346 is a warning device and does not itself establish a legal speed limit.
Does W346 mean the road is closed?
No. W346 warns of a hazard and does not itself indicate that the road is closed.
Does the flashing light replace the warning sign?
No. The flashing light is intended to supplement the warning sign and draw additional attention to it.
Can W346 be seen at night?
Yes. The flashing yellow light is designed to be conspicuous, including under low-light conditions, while avoiding unnecessary glare.
Can W346 be used with another warning sign?
Yes. This is the intended application of the Emergency Flashing Light warning sign.
Can Signs4SA supply W346 signs?
Yes. Signs4SA can assist with W346 Emergency Flashing Light signage, temporary TW346 arrangements and related road traffic signs.
Order W346 Emergency Flashing Light Signs
Need W346 Emergency Flashing Light or TW346 temporary flashing-light warning signs for a road hazard, construction project, traffic-management application, industrial facility or private property?
Signs4SA can assist with warning signage and related traffic-management solutions for different applications.
Contact Signs4SA with the W346 or TW346 code, required quantity, sign size, flashing-light specification and installation requirements to request a quotation.
One important feature of "Danger" flashing light sign signs is their high visibility. These signs are designed to be easily seen by drivers, even from a distance and in adverse weather conditions. Many "Danger" flashing light sign signs are also designed with reflective materials that make them visible at night.
Another important feature of "Danger" flashing light sign signs is their durability. Road signs are exposed to a wide range of environmental factors, including wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. As such, they need to be made from materials that can withstand these conditions and remain in good condition for years to come.
More About "Danger" flashing light sign
Emergency Flashing Light – W346 Road Sign
The W346 Emergency Flashing Light road sign is a South African warning sign used to draw the attention of drivers and other road users to a hazardous condition ahead.
The official South African road traffic sign designation is W346 EMERGENCY FLASHING LIGHT. The sign incorporates an intermittent flashing yellow circular light within the warning sign to reinforce the warning and attract attention to an existing hazard.
W346 is normally used together with another warning sign. The flashing light adds emphasis, while the accompanying warning sign communicates the specific nature of the hazard.
What Does the W346 Road Sign Mean?
W346 means Emergency Flashing Light. It warns road users that a hazard exists ahead and uses a flashing yellow light to draw additional attention to the warning.
The flashing light does not by itself tell drivers what the hazard is. The accompanying warning sign or traffic-control arrangement provides that information.
W346 is therefore an attention-enhancing warning device rather than a standalone description of a particular road hazard.
Why Is the W346 Sign Important?
Some road conditions are unusually hazardous or require a warning sign to attract more attention than would normally be provided by the sign alone.
The intermittent flashing yellow light is intended to make the warning more noticeable to approaching road users.
This can be useful where additional emphasis is needed because of unusual road conditions, an incident or another significant hazard.
When Is W346 Used?
The SARTSM states that W346 may be installed permanently to draw attention to road conditions that are unusually hazardous.
It should be used to supplement another warning sign and give that warning additional emphasis.
W346 should therefore not normally be treated as a replacement for the warning sign that identifies the actual hazard.
W346 Is Not the Same as a General Warning Sign
W346 and W339 General Warning have different functions.
- W346: Adds a flashing yellow light to reinforce a warning about a hazard.
- W339: Provides a general warning for a general or random hazard, normally with supplementary information explaining the hazard.
W346 focuses on drawing attention to a warning, while W339 communicates a general hazard.
W346 Should Supplement Another Warning Sign
One of the most important characteristics of W346 is that the flashing light does not replace the need for an appropriate warning sign.
The SARTSM explains that the sign should supplement another warning sign to provide additional emphasis.
The other warning sign identifies the specific hazard, while the flashing yellow light helps attract the driver's attention to that warning.
Examples of Hazards That May Need Extra Emphasis
Depending on the location and traffic-management requirements, W346 may be relevant where an existing warning sign needs additional emphasis because conditions are unusually hazardous.
Examples may include:
- Unexpected hazardous road conditions
- Temporary incidents
- Unusual roadway hazards
- Locations where an existing warning requires additional attention
- Other situations where the applicable traffic-management assessment supports an emergency flashing light
The actual warning sign should still identify the nature of the hazard.
W346 and the Flashing Yellow Light
The W346 sign uses an intermittent flashing yellow circular light.
The SARTSM specifies that the flashing light should have a periodicity of approximately one second.
The minimum diameter of the light disc is 150 mm.
The sign should be designed so that the flashing light is clearly visible to approaching traffic while, as far as possible, preventing the light from being seen from directions to which the warning does not apply.
W346 and Flashing Yellow Warning Signals
The South African traffic-sign system also defines a Flashing Yellow Warning Signal (SS3).
SS3 may be used to warn road users of a particular hazard or traffic-control device and forms part of the emergency flashing light warning sign W346 or TW346.
The flashing yellow signal is intended to reinforce the warning rather than replace the road sign that identifies the hazard.
W346 and Night-Time Visibility
A flashing yellow light can provide an additional visual cue during darkness and other low-light conditions.
The SARTSM requires the sign to be designed so that the flashing light is conspicuous without creating unnecessary glare or being visible from directions where the warning does not apply.
The intensity and installation of the light should therefore be suitable for the location and operating conditions.
W346 and Daytime Visibility
W346 is not limited to night-time use. The sign and flashing light can operate during the day or according to the operating arrangement required at the site.
The flashing light should remain conspicuous without obscuring or distracting from the warning sign itself.
W346 Sign Placement
W346 should be positioned in advance of the hazard.
The SARTSM states that the sign should be located at a distance in accordance with the applicable Table 3.1 requirements.
Where W346 is used together with another warning sign, the two signs should be separated by a distance of V metres, where V is the operating speed in kilometres per hour.
W346 and Another Warning Sign
When another warning sign is used with W346, the warning signs should be arranged so that drivers can recognise the hazard and receive the additional flashing-light emphasis in sufficient time.
The spacing between signs should follow the applicable SARTSM requirements and the conditions at the location.
W346 and Specific Warning Signs
W346 can be associated with a variety of specific warning signs where additional emphasis is warranted.
For example, a flashing yellow warning light may reinforce a warning sign concerning an unusually hazardous roadway condition.
The selected warning sign should describe the actual hazard, while W346 provides additional attention.
W346 and W339 General Warning
W339 is the General Warning sign and is normally accompanied by supplementary information explaining the hazard.
W346 is an Emergency Flashing Light that reinforces another warning sign.
They can therefore serve different roles within a traffic-management arrangement.
Temporary Emergency Flashing Light – TW346
The temporary version of W346 is designated TW346.
TW346 may be used under the same general circumstances as W346 where temporary additional emphasis is required.
The SARTSM specifically allows TW346 to be used as a temporary portable sign.
TW346 for Temporary Hazards
Temporary road conditions and incidents can create hazards that require additional warning for approaching traffic.
TW346 can be used as part of a temporary traffic-management arrangement where additional emphasis is required and the applicable requirements are met.
The sign should be removed, relocated or changed when the temporary hazard or traffic-management requirement no longer applies.
TW346 Portable Sign
Because TW346 may be used as a portable warning sign, it can be suitable for situations where the warning needs to be deployed at a temporary location.
The SARTSM specifies that the reverse side of a portable TW346 should be marked with black and yellow horizontal stripes.
This helps identify the sign as a temporary portable traffic-control device.
Permanent W346 Sign Design and Colours
The permanent W346 sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Yellow flashing light
- Background: White retroreflective
The yellow flashing light is the active element that provides the additional visual warning.
Temporary TW346 Sign Design and Colours
The temporary TW346 sign uses:
- Triangle: Red retroreflective
- Symbol: Yellow flashing light
- Background: Yellow retroreflective
The temporary sign therefore uses the yellow background associated with temporary warning signs while retaining the flashing yellow warning light.
W346 Light Operation
The flashing light should operate intermittently rather than as a continuously illuminated steady light.
The SARTSM specifies a periodicity of approximately one second for the W346 flashing light.
The installation should also ensure that the light is clearly visible to the intended approaching traffic.
W346 Light Disc Size
The minimum light disc diameter specified for W346 is 150 mm.
The equipment should be installed so that the disc remains visible without obscuring the warning sign or creating unnecessary glare.
W346 and Glare
The flashing light should be conspicuous, but its brightness should not interfere unnecessarily with the visibility of the sign or create excessive glare.
The installation should also limit visibility of the light from directions where the warning does not apply.
W346 and Road Traffic Signs
W346 is part of a wider road traffic-sign system in which warning signs communicate hazards to approaching road users.
The flashing light strengthens the visual presence of the warning but does not provide the detailed hazard information by itself.
For public-road applications, the complete sign combination should comply with the applicable South African road traffic sign requirements.
W346 on Public Roads in South Africa
On public roads, W346 and TW346 should be selected, installed and operated according to the applicable South African road traffic sign requirements and the requirements of the responsible road authority.
The warning should correspond to an actual hazardous condition and should be reviewed when road conditions change.
W346 on Private Roads and Properties
Similar flashing-warning arrangements may also be used on private roads and controlled properties where an unusually hazardous condition requires additional attention.
Potential applications include:
- Industrial facilities
- Mining sites
- Warehouses
- Construction sites
- Private estates
- Commercial properties
- Large parking facilities
- Private access roads
- Farms
- Game reserves and lodges
On private property, the arrangement should form part of a suitable internal traffic-management system based on the actual site conditions.
W346 at Construction Sites
Construction and maintenance areas may contain temporary hazards that require additional warning.
Where the applicable requirements support the use of a flashing warning light, TW346 may be incorporated into the temporary traffic-management arrangement.
Other temporary warning signs, barriers, cones and traffic-control devices may also be required according to the work-zone conditions.
W346 and Traffic Incidents
Traffic incidents can create unusual hazards that require approaching drivers to pay additional attention.
Where an appropriate warning sign is already being used and additional emphasis is necessary, W346 or TW346 may form part of the traffic-management arrangement where applicable.
W346 and Emergency Response
Emergency-response situations may require rapid deployment of temporary warning devices.
TW346 can be used as a portable warning sign where an emergency or temporary hazard requires the additional visual emphasis provided by a flashing yellow light.
The complete response should follow the applicable incident-management and traffic-control procedures.
W346 and Warning Sign Visibility
The sign should be visible from the approach direction far enough in advance for drivers to recognise the warning and respond appropriately.
Potential obstructions include:
- Vegetation
- Buildings
- Roadside structures
- Other traffic signs
- Advertising boards
- Sharp curves
- Road crests
- Temporary construction equipment
The installation should be inspected to ensure that the flashing light and the warning sign remain visible.
W346 Maintenance
W346 requires attention to both the physical sign and the flashing-light equipment.
Maintenance inspections can include:
- Checking the flashing light operation
- Checking the flash timing
- Checking the light visibility
- Cleaning the sign face
- Checking for damage
- Checking mounting hardware
- Checking electrical or control equipment where applicable
- Removing obstructions around the sign
A non-functioning flashing light may prevent the installation from providing the intended additional emphasis.
W346 and Electrical Equipment
Because W346 incorporates an active flashing light, the installation includes electrical or lighting equipment in addition to the physical road sign.
The equipment should be selected and installed appropriately for its environment and maintained so that the flashing signal operates as intended.
W346 and Solar-Powered Installations
For locations without a convenient mains electrical supply, a solar-powered flashing-light installation may be considered where suitable and compliant equipment is available.
The power system should be designed for the operating requirements of the site, including the intended hours of operation and local environmental conditions.
W346 and Battery Backup
Temporary or remote installations may also use battery-supported flashing-light equipment where appropriate.
The battery capacity, charging system and operating schedule should be suitable for the intended application.
Who May Need W346 Emergency Flashing Light Signs?
W346 or TW346 may be relevant to:
- Road authorities
- Municipalities
- Traffic-management contractors
- Road maintenance contractors
- Road construction contractors
- Emergency-response teams
- Mining operations
- Industrial facilities
- Construction-site managers
- Property managers
- Private estate managers
- Commercial property operators
Benefits of W346 Emergency Flashing Light Signs
- Draws additional attention to a warning sign.
- Uses an intermittent yellow flashing light to reinforce the warning.
- Can highlight unusually hazardous road conditions.
- Can supplement another warning sign rather than replacing it.
- Can be installed permanently for suitable hazardous road conditions.
- TW346 provides a temporary portable option.
- Can be used as part of temporary incident and traffic-management arrangements.
- Can improve the visual prominence of a warning arrangement, subject to correct installation and operating conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About W346 Road Signs
What does W346 mean?
W346 means Emergency Flashing Light. It warns road users of a hazard ahead using an intermittent flashing yellow circular light.
What is the official name of W346?
The official South African designation is EMERGENCY FLASHING LIGHT.
Is W346 a danger sign?
W346 is a warning sign used to draw additional attention to a hazard. Its official designation is Emergency Flashing Light.
What colour is the W346 flashing light?
The W346 warning light is yellow and flashes intermittently.
How fast does the W346 light flash?
The SARTSM specifies a periodicity of approximately one second.
What is the minimum W346 light diameter?
The minimum flashing-light disc diameter is 150 mm.
Can W346 be used by itself?
W346 is intended to supplement another warning sign. The accompanying sign communicates the specific nature of the hazard.
What does W346 warn drivers about?
It draws attention to a hazardous condition ahead. The accompanying warning sign identifies the actual hazard.
What is TW346?
TW346 is the temporary version of the Emergency Flashing Light warning sign.
Can TW346 be portable?
Yes. The SARTSM allows TW346 to be used as a temporary portable warning sign.
What is shown on the back of a portable TW346?
The reverse side should have black and yellow horizontal stripes.
What colours does permanent W346 use?
Permanent W346 uses a red retroreflective triangle, yellow flashing-light symbol and white retroreflective background.
What colours does TW346 use?
Temporary TW346 uses a red retroreflective triangle, yellow flashing-light symbol and yellow retroreflective background.
Where should W346 be placed?
It should be positioned in advance of the hazard according to the applicable SARTSM requirements and operating speed.
How far should W346 be from another warning sign?
Where another warning sign is used, the SARTSM specifies a separation of V metres, where V is the operating speed in km/h.
Can W346 be used permanently?
Yes. It may be installed permanently to draw attention to road conditions that are unusually hazardous.
Can W346 be used temporarily?
Yes. TW346 can be used for temporary situations where additional warning emphasis is required.
Can W346 be used at roadworks?
Yes. TW346 may be used as part of a suitable temporary roadworks traffic-management arrangement.
Can W346 be used for accidents?
It may form part of an appropriate temporary warning arrangement where additional emphasis is required at an incident.
Can W346 be used on private property?
Similar flashing warning arrangements may be used on private roads and controlled properties where an unusually hazardous condition requires additional attention.
Is W346 the same as W339?
No. W339 is a General Warning sign, while W346 is an Emergency Flashing Light used to reinforce another warning.
Does W346 impose a speed limit?
No. W346 is a warning device and does not itself establish a legal speed limit.
Does W346 mean the road is closed?
No. W346 warns of a hazard and does not itself indicate that the road is closed.
Does the flashing light replace the warning sign?
No. The flashing light is intended to supplement the warning sign and draw additional attention to it.
Can W346 be seen at night?
Yes. The flashing yellow light is designed to be conspicuous, including under low-light conditions, while avoiding unnecessary glare.
Can W346 be used with another warning sign?
Yes. This is the intended application of the Emergency Flashing Light warning sign.
Can Signs4SA supply W346 signs?
Yes. Signs4SA can assist with W346 Emergency Flashing Light signage, temporary TW346 arrangements and related road traffic signs.
Order W346 Emergency Flashing Light Signs
Need W346 Emergency Flashing Light or TW346 temporary flashing-light warning signs for a road hazard, construction project, traffic-management application, industrial facility or private property?
Signs4SA can assist with warning signage and related traffic-management solutions for different applications.
Contact Signs4SA with the W346 or TW346 code, required quantity, sign size, flashing-light specification and installation requirements to request a quotation.
One popular type of road sign is the "Danger" flashing light sign sign. This type of sign is used to provide drivers with important information about the road ahead, such as directions, speed limits, and potential hazards.
"Danger" flashing light sign_ signs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and are made from a range of materials, including metal, plastic, and reflective materials. They can be customized to meet the specific needs of a particular roadway or location, including the addition of logos, graphics, and text.
One important feature of "Danger" flashing light sign signs is their high visibility. These signs are designed to be easily seen by drivers, even from a distance and in adverse weather conditions. Many "Danger" flashing light sign signs are also designed with reflective materials that make them visible at night.
Another important feature of "Danger" flashing light sign signs is their durability. Road signs are exposed to a wide range of environmental factors, including wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. As such, they need to be made from materials that can withstand these conditions and remain in good condition for years to come.
For businesses and organizations that need to create custom road signs, working with a reputable sign company can ensure that their signs are of high quality and meet all necessary standards and regulations. Signs4sa can provide expert advice on design, materials, and installation, and can help businesses ensure that their signs are installed safely and effectively.
Overall, "Danger" flashing light sign signs are an important tool for ensuring road safety and providing drivers with the information they need to navigate effectively. By working with a professional sign company to create and install these signs, businesses and organizations can help ensure that their messages are seen and understood by drivers, and help to improve safety on the road.