Back-up alarms on city trucks

Last updated March 2, 2022
Reading time: 1 min

When city trucks back up, they make a sound similar to that of a can being opened. This alarm serves to warn pedestrians walking behind a construction truck or a heavy vehicle. It helps limit noises that could pose an inconvenience to neighbouring residents.

From “beep-beep” to “pscht-pscht”

Construction vehicles are equipped with new back-up alarm systems featuring multiple broadband frequencies, which replace the traditional “beep-beep.”

This less noisy alarm is more stable when in contact with surfaces, such as asphalt, brick or grass. The sound, to a greater extent, is directed towards the back of the vehicle, thereby limiting the range of the noise while improving its effectiveness.

Please view the video below to listen to the back-up alarm.

Gradual changes 

The city began the process of changing its back-up alarms in 2019. 

Back-up alarms are changed as soon as preventive maintenance is carried out on a vehicle. They are installed on new vehicles prior to delivery.

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