Better Visibility Improves Road Safety

As further steps towards improving road safety in Europe, reflective tape on trucks and daytime running lights (DRL) on passenger cars will improve visibility in road transport from next year onwards. From February 2011 on, special daytime running lights will become mandatory for all new cars. This measure is aimed at a clear reduction in the number of road accidents, as is the introduction of 'retro-reflective contour marking' on trucks. Although so far these markings have been voluntary, TÜV SÜD warns that from July 2011 onwards, all new trucks of 7.5 tonnes and upwards must have them.

Rain, fog, darkness – poor visibility is high on the list of causes of accidents. Seeing and being seen is an important prerequisite for maintaining adequate safety distance from other cars and reacting correctly. TÜV SÜD welcomes the new provisions aimed at improving visibility, which will come into effect next year. Bernhard Kerscher, CEO of TÜV SÜD Auto Service, comments, "Retro-reflective contour markings on trucks are a simple and relatively cost-effective approach to boosting visibility, immediately improving road safety." The same can be said for the introduction of daytime running lights (DRLs) for new passenger cars up to a gross vehicle weight of 3.5 tonnes from February 2011 onwards.

Without Major Efforts

An EU regulation demanding that daytime running lights (DRL) must be part of the original equipment of a new car from February 2011 onwards – a requirement already fulfilled by numerous automobile manufacturers – will be implemented in stages next year. For commercial vehicles, this requirement will apply one year later, from August 2012 onwards.

Nevertheless, truck visibility is to be improved as early as next year, from which time retro-reflective markings will be made compulsory. These 'contour markings', which have been permitted in Germany for years, will become compulsory from July 2011 onwards for new commercial vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of 7.5 tonnes and upwards and new trailers of 3.5 tonnes and more, as set forth in EU Directive 2007/35/EC (adaptation to technical progress concerning the installation of lighting and light-signalling devices on motor vehicles).

A fast and cost-effective process, affixing the adhesive tape to a solid or tarpaulin truck body could hardly be simpler. From October 2011 onwards, the adhesive foil will become compulsory across Europe. However, like daytime running lights, retro-reflective markings will also only become compulsory for new vehicles, and the retrofit will not be made mandatory for cars already registered.

Daytime Running Lights Offer Many Benefits

Why not simply make it mandatory for cars to have their headlights on during the day, similar to motorcycles? "Daytime running lights are optimized for the requirements of daytime driving and offer many advantages compared to normal headlights", explains Günter Schmid, TÜV SÜD. Firstly, for example, the lights are not brighter than the headlights of motorcycles or other weaker road users such as cyclists, and thus do not reduce their conspicuity. Secondly, they need very little power and only marginally increase fuel consumption. By comparison, when driving with daytime running lights (DRLs) all other lights including rear lights, licence plate lights and so on are switched off, unlike driving with dipped headlights (mean additional fuel consumption 0.1 to 0.2 litres per 100 kilometres). As a result, DRLs consume only 20 to 30 per cent of the energy consumed by headlamps. And if LED systems are used, energy consumption amounts to a mere 10 per cent of that consumed by headlights. Thirdly, the vehicle can be seen more clearly by other road users, particularly in poor light, and the speed of other road users is far easier to assess. A Look At Our Neighbours
A look at our neighbouring countries shows that irrespective of the new European regulation, headlamps during the day are already mandatory in many European countries. While driving with the lights on during the day is only a recommendation in some countries, such as France and Switzerland, it is compulsory in others and drivers that violate this rule must expect expensive fines – motorists caught with their lights off during the day are called on to pay 53 euros in the Czech Republic, for example, and as much as 190 euros in Norway. In these countries, motorists whose cars have not yet been equipped with the new daytime running lights may switch on their headlights instead.

Retrofitting

Given this situation, TÜV SÜD offers a tip on retrofitting: in most cases car owners who do not plan to buy a new car in 2011, yet want to improve their visibility and comply with the state of the art, can retrofit their cars. The retrofit is available from 50 euros upwards. Motorists purchasing daytime running lights should look out for the E-test mark and the letters RL on the glass of the lamp. "The lamps must also be approved as per ECE-R 87 (European Regulation for Daytime Running Lights)", explains Schmid. A word on technology: when purchasing daytime running lights, car owners should give preference to LED systems. LEDs consume far less energy, which is good for the environment.

As an additional benefit, these lamps are smaller and therefore easier to install. As installation involves the electronic system of the car, drivers wishing to retrofit DRLs should go to a specialist garage.

Photovoltaics: Easier access to the UK market with TÜV SÜD

As an accredited certification body for the UK Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), TÜV SÜD supports manufacturers throughout the world in the certification of photovoltaic modules and other components. The MCS certificate is essential to selling excess electricity to the National Grid in the UK, and is a critical success factor on the UK market for manufacturers and importers.

By adopting programmes such as the MCS scheme, the UK government aims to promote the use of energy from renewables in the UK and meet the European Union’s targets for reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. "The MCS certificate is required for selling the electricity produced to the National Grid", explains Andreas Faißt, photovoltaics expert at Munich-based TÜV SÜD Product Service GmbH." The certificate is thus critical in the selection and purchase of photovoltaic systems and other components.

Boasting a global network, the TÜV SÜD experts support manufacturers in complying with the requirements set out in the British MCS standard. "Our service saves non-UK manufacturers a lot of time and money", explains Faißt. "And thanks to our staff in regional subsidiaries, we can also ensure smooth cooperation across national boundaries." Certification covers type examinations and special on-site factory production control audits. Extensive testing ensures compliance with the relevant standards. "This makes the certificate one of the key criteria for UK consumers and system installers when selecting a product", notes the TÜV SÜD professional. "The MCS logo is not only essential to selling excess electricity to the National Grid, but also makes a clear statement about the manufacturer's expertise and responsibility."

For more information about the MCS Scheme contact us by telephone: +44 (0)1489 558100 or email: info@tuvps.co.uk

TÜV SÜD and E.ON press ahead with electro-mobility

TÜV SÜD and E.ON are working closely together to further develop electro-mobility to market readiness. The focus of this strategic partnership is on a broad spectrum of charging systems for electro-vehicles. Developing user friendly electricity fuel stations with the highest safety standards will be an important contribution to building up the infrastructure necessary for the wide use of electro-cars in the future.

As part of their partnership both companies are working on further developing existing concepts and standards for cable connected electricity fuel stations. In this connection E.ON has installed a newly developed electricity fuel station at the TÜV SÜD Service Centre Starnberg near Munich that is reopening today, Friday 9 July. This electricity fuel station will be the first facility of this type to receive a TÜV certificate. In marketing a new generation of electricity fuel stations E.ON is specifically backing this seal of approval, thus underlining its pioneering role in developing electricity fuel stations.

TÜV SÜD and E.ON are also systematically investigating the usage possibilities and prospects of cable free charging stations. For this purpose test operations extending over several months in a test facility also installed in the Starnberg Test Centre will also put inductive charging through its paces. The test results will form an important basis for setting the first, generally applicable technical safety requirements for such charging systems. The criteria set in doing so could apply as guidelines for developing and operating such facilities worldwide in future.

Through this cooperation TÜV SÜD will strengthen its expertise throughout the electro-mobility process chain: from certifying electricity generation and safety standards for vehicles and infrastructure, up to training staff how to handle high voltage technology, as well as recycling vehicles.

For E.ON electricity fuel stations are not just charging points for electro-cars but an important interface for the intelligent electricity grids of the future. So that the increasing electricity generation from small, decentralised facilities can be integrated, energy storage has to supplement intelligent grids. One option for this is electro-cars if they could be “filled up” with electricity using an intelligent electricity fuel station when it is windy and consumption is low.

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Staying cool on the slopes – with ski goggles

As ski fans prepare for fun on the slopes in the forthcoming season, they should be sure to include ski goggles as an essential item of basic safety equipment for any winter sports enthusiast. The sports product experts at TÜV SÜD have tips on choosing the right goggles and on product care. TÜV SÜD tips for purchasers


A single pair of goggles can offer many types of protection. Goggles protect the wearer from glare and harsh UV rays. They also protect the eyes from the effects of the weather – from snow to rain or sleet – and keep wind and sun away from the sensitive conjunctiva of the eye. A well-fitting pair of goggles can also protect against eye injuries from falls.


It's all about the lenses. In high-quality ski goggles, they are usually made from shatterproof and impact-resistant polycarbonate, a type of plastic which ensures clear, distortion-free vision. To ensure as wide a field of vision as possible, the lenses generally extend beyond the eye and are not divided into two separate lenses like 'normal' glasses. The TÜV SÜD pros advise that double lenses help to reduce moisture build-up behind the goggles, and allow moisture to dissipate more easily.


On the ski slopes, glorious sunshine can be torture for the eyes. Tinted lenses protect against glare and optimize visibility. Dark brown or dark grey lenses are the most effective in extremely bright sunlight. There are four levels of protective filter. In twilight, snow or fog, vision is improved by yellow or reddish-orange tinted lenses. TÜV SÜD advises purchasers to consult a specialist retailer for detailed information on protective filters, lens tints and UV protection in ski goggles.


But what about people who have to wear prescription glasses every day? On no account should they hit the slopes without their 'visual aids', warn the TÜV SÜD experts. There are a number of options they can explore, such as ski goggles with clips which take optical prescription inserts. If the wearer's visual acuity changes, only the clip needs to be replaced. In another solution known as a shield, the prescription lenses themselves are integrated into the goggle frame. Finally, 'over-the-glass' goggles are designed to be worn over normal glasses. A popular alternative is to resort to contact lenses while skiing, which enable normal sports goggles to be worn.


Sunshine is not the only source of eye strain – wind can also cause problems. For this reason, goggles should fit as closely as possible around the eye. To prevent fogging, an effective ventilation system is essential. Continuous optimum flow of air is achieved either by ventilation slits or by a battery-operated electric fan – a high-tech alternative particularly popular with extreme sports enthusiasts. A further precaution against fogging is an anti-fog coating on the inside of the lens. However, only high-quality models offer a long lifespan – cheaper versions simply wash off over time.


To ensure wearing comfort on the slopes and effective protection if you take a tumble, goggles frames must be flexible and adjustable. Flexible plastic is the best material; it is lightweight and does not become cold or brittle, even in low temperatures.


The main safety priority for goggles is the correct fit. Goggles fit correctly when they sit comfortably without slipping or chafing. The frame should fit closely around the head. Fit and comfort can be optimized by choosing goggles with a well-fitting stretch head strap and padding at all points where the goggles are in contact with the skin; this padding should be of soft, elastic material that is comfortable to wear. The head strap should be designed for combination with a helmet. TÜV SÜD advises taking the helmet along when you buy your goggles and spending plenty of time in trying on different goggle styles.


Purchasers of ski goggles can look for the GS (Tested Safety) mark or the TÜV SÜD octagon quality mark as guidance in their product choice. The sports product experts test attributes including stability, material and usability.


TÜV SÜD tips for care

• If snow gets into the goggles, simply tap it out and dry the inside of the lens by dabbing with an eyewear care cloth. Do not rub the lens, as this may damage (scratch) the anti-fog coating or the glass.
• Always store and transport the goggles in the case supplied, to ensure long-term satisfaction with your purchase.
• Goggles lenses that have cracked or chipped as the result of a fall can be replaced – a specialist retailer is the best place to ask.

EVERYONE seems to know a friend or loved one with cancer these days. Some experts say we must change our lifestyles to prevent it while others claim it is simply a disease of the modern world.

Article taken from the Daily Express - 4/11/10 http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/209444

Almost every day another name gets added to that most unpopular of roll calls: the celebrity cancer register. This week presenter Danny Baker joined actors Michael Douglas, the late Simon McCorkindale and Jennifer Saunders in one of the West’s least exclusive clubs. Other victims include celebrities who are surely among the fittest in their age group, such as tennis legend Martina Navratilova and Kylie Minogue.

Professor Rosalie David at the university said: “In industrialised societies cancer is second only to cardiovascular disease as a cause of death. But in ancient times it was extremely rare. There is really nothing in the natural environment that can cause cancer so it has to be a man-made disease, down to pollution and changes to our diet
and lifestyle.”

However Cancer Research UK disputes claims that cancer was unknown in the Ancient World and cites several natural causes of the disease. UV radiation from the sun, bacteria, viruses and the radio- active gas radon are as natural as breathing and all linked to cancer.

Even here man’s influence may be at play. Cases of the most dan- gerous form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma, have more than quadrupled over the past 30 years in Britain. This is almost certainly because package holidays have let us worship the sun in droves in climates too extreme for our sensitive northern skins. What has also changed in recent years is the weakening of Earth’s natural protection against UV radiation, the ozone layer, thanks to damage from man-made chemicals.

Cancer Research UK says that lifestyle factors – smoking, drinking and obesity – all add to the cancer risk. But again alcohol is far from new. Britons have been boozing for centuries. It’s what we’re good at. And a visit to a cancer clinic does not reveal a gaggle of Teletubbies of whom you could say: “You ate too many pies. You drank too many pints. It’s your own stupid fault.”

I don’t pretend to know why there is a surge in cancer rates.  Greater minds than mine have yet to find a clear answer. Obviously we are living longer and in the West detection rates are dramatically better than when I was a child. But that surely cannot explain the doubling and trebling over such a short period of these cancers. You have to wonder whether there is something in the air we breathe, the water we drink or the food we eat. Is that panoply of must-have electric gizmos having unforeseen effects? Are modern lives now so stressful that our bodies are rebelling?

One of the prime suspects has to be the huge battery of chemicals in daily use. In 2005 scores of scientists from across Europe put their names to the Prague Declaration to express their concerns about exposure to hormone disrupting or gender-bending chemicals. They said: “The incidence of cancers such as breast, testis and prostate continues to increase in many European countries, although there are notable differences between countries... This shows that these cancers are linked to factors in the environment, including the diet.”

In 2006 the European Commission said long-term exposure to pesticides can lead to “serious disturbances to the immune system, sexual disorders, cancers, sterility, birth defects, damage to the nervous system and genetic damage”.

Yet the chemicals industry had to be dragged kicking and screaming into the EU’s agreement on the Registration and Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. And veteran campaigner Georgina Downs is still battling for rural residents to be given the right to be told which chemicals are being sprayed on nearby fields and when.

It is only right to point out that Cancer Research UK describes the evidence linking pesticide use to cancer as “inconclusive”. Moreover the amounts of pesticides found on fruits and vegetables are “tiny”. A spokeswoman said: “There is no evidence that they can damage health.”

That may well be the case but none of us goes through life being exposed to one chemical at a time. We are daily exposed to a cocktail of chemicals and there is little research on the effects that this ever-changing mixture might have.

Exposure to hormone-disrupting and potentially carcinogenic chemicals comes from all sorts of sources: plastic bottles, make-up and even our furniture.

We would find it hard to live without many of them and paradoxically some, such as brominated flame retardants, save lives. Similarly we rely on those villainous pesticides for cheap food. But something is going on in our wider environment.

In Europe male fish exposed to sewage treatment have become gender-benders with eggs in their testes. The widespread use of the now banned insecticide DDT in the Fifties caused birds of prey numbers to crash as the poison worked its way up the food chain. If these chemicals can cause such damage to wildlife why be surprised should their tentacles reach man?

If this hidden exposure is a problem there is not a lot you can do. The price of so many organic foods, for instance, means that shunning pesticides completely is an option open to few.

The glimmer of hope is that the treatment of cancer is improving every year. In the Seventies five out of 10 women with breast cancer survived beyond five years. Now the figure is more than eight out of 10. For prostate cancer the survival rate has risen in the same period from 30 per cent to 75 per cent.

Anyone who develops cancer, therefore, can look forward with some confidence to beating this nasty, insidious disease. And in the meantime there’s only one thing to do: enjoy yourself while you can.

“Do not underestimate chemicals”

Phil Dolling, TÜV SÜD REACh consultant commented “The Registration, Authorisation, Evaluation and Restriction of Chemicals legislation (REACh) is an extremely important piece of European Law and compliance with it is paramount in ensuring that potentially dangerous chemicals do not find their way into everyday consumer items.  We must never take for granted the importance of human health and protection of our environment.   We continually help our clients demonstrate compliance with REACh but even then the rapid alert system for non food products (RAPEX) lists non-conforming items every week as a result of market surveillance actions conducted throughout Europe.  Chemicals are found everywhere in common items such as cosmetics, paint and plastics.  Letting potentially hazardous chemicals slip into the supply chain is very dangerous, it just isn’t worth the gamble”.

For further information about REACh please contact our REACh compliance team on +44 (0)1489 558213 or email info@tuvps.co.uk

View the original article here: http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/209444

Confused About EMC Testing?

What is EMC?

Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) as:

The ability of a device, equipment or system to function satisfactorily in its electromagnetic environment without introducing intolerable electromagnetic disturbances to anything in that environment.

There are therefore two aspects to EMC; firstly controlling the electromagnetic 'noise' produced, also known as electromagnetic interference (EMI) or emissions; and secondly designing equipment to be sufficiently immune to intentional and unintentional electromagnetic sources in the environment so that it continues to operate correctly and does not become 'susceptible' to interference.

The problems of interference range from nuisance (e.g. poor quality TV/Radio reception) to unreliability (e.g. computer crashing) to safety (e.g. railway signalling failure).

Within Europe, electrical equipment with CE Marking meets the EU Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive. The Directive has essential protection requirements for emissions and immunity to ensure that, for example; broadcast radio and television reception is unaffected by interference and that equipment will continue to operate adequately in the vicinity of radio transmitters such as mobile phones.

For manufacturers and suppliers in Europe, as well as EMC testing equipment under the EMC Directive, it is necessary to compile Technical Documentation, make a Declaration of Conformity and apply CE Marking. An option is to use an EMC Notified Body to provide an assessment.

What are EMC Emissions?

Emissions are described as the unwanted generation of electromagnetic energy.  Under the EMC Directive, the permitted levels of emissions are specified in Harmonised Standards for products, product families or generic environments. Usually it is necessary to perform EMC emission testing to demonstrate that the limits are met or if they are not met, to identify where design changes are required.

How can you prevent unwanted EMC Emissions?

The emissions can either be 'radiated' via electromagnetic fields that couple to other equipment or 'conducted' through wired connections such as the power cable. To prevent emissions it is possible to add filters and suppressors to cable interfaces, add cable or equipment shielding and grounding or change the circuit and PCB design.

What is EMC Immunity?

EMC Immunity (often called susceptibility) refers to the correct operation of electrical equipment in the presence of electromagnetic disturbances.  Under the EMC Directive, the minimum levels of immunity are specified in Harmonised Standards. Usually it is necessary to perform EMC immunity testing to demonstrate that the limits are met or if they are not met, to identify where design changes are required.

What can be done to increase immunity?

Interference can couple into equipment by the same routes as emissions, i.e. 'radiated' or 'conducted' coupling and similar measures can be applied such as to add filters and suppressors to cable interfaces, add cable or equipment shielding and grounding or change the circuit and PCB design.

For more information about EMC Testing visit our webpage: http://www.tuvps.co.uk/home_psuk/services/testing/emc_testing