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14 December 2013

Obstruction Lighting Is An Essential Part Of Preventing Aviation Collisions

By Cornelia White


Aviation obstruction lighting first appeared on tall structures of various kinds in the 1930s. With the advent of frequent nighttime flights, it soon became an absolute necessity. In order to protect the lives of pilots, essential equipment and ground personnel, systems were put into place. Since then, strict rules, enforced regulations and effective methods continue to be developed to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Ultimately, obstruction illumination fundamentally entails signal lights to limit collisions relating to planes and a wide variety of objects that are on the earth. For illustration, cell phone, radio and television towers are made to be more evident through the utilization of gear that produces high-intensity illumination. Although these illumination setups are most visible when used usually in the night, they also are utilized on various taller structures in the day time.

While people on the ground may normally not give it much thought, there are a multitude of hazardous objects that pilots must contend with on a daily basis. In addition to communications towers, there are various other objects that need to be avoided including overly tall buildings, industrial chimney smokestacks and wind turbines. Even some smaller structures require lights when near airports where airplanes fly very low.

Most of the standards for usage are established by the International Civil Aviation Organization. For the most part, their policies are recognized in most countries around the world. By having a system of uniform regulations, it is much easier to prevent dangerous collisions, enforce compliance and protect public safety. By adopting the same sets of rules internationally, the possibility of confusion is greatly reduced.

For decades, various light systems have been engineered. The systems used will vary substantially, based on every different individual purpose. Quite a few obstacles will demand one lone beacon lamp. It commonly is recommended for bigger hazards to be outfitted with a number of lights situated in precise layouts. Many times, a pilot can ascertain the individual type, together with the height, of a harmful object.

These signal beacon devices can be powered by a multitude of light sources. In the past few years, LED technologies have been applied widely throughout the aviation warning industry. Nevertheless, some facilities still depend on lamps which include metal halide, high pressure sodium or common incandescent types. At any rate, they are all exclusively designed to ensure sufficient reliability, high intensity and adequate longevity.

Traditionally, these beacons will be either red or white. The color is normally determined by a combination of factors that will include overall height, structure type and particular location. A white light may not be recommended in certain urban locations, due to the fact that it may blend with commercial and residential background sources. However, they are often used extensively in rural settings.

It is a must for high constructions to include obstruction lighting that is agreeable to standardized requirements. The policies are needed to provide basic public safety, safe flying conditions and ease of navigation. These strategies are undoubtedly vital in avoiding heavy economic losses, severe property damage and potential life threatening injuries.




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