1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 1
This document is meant purely as a documentation tool and the institutions do not assume any liability for its contents
►B COUNCIL DIRECTIVE
of 27July 197 6
on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to reflex reflectors for motor
vehicles and their trailers
(76/757/EEC)
(OJ L 262, 27.9.1976, p. 32)
Amended by:
Official Journal
No page date
►M1 Council Directive 87/354/EEC of 25 June 1987 L 192 43 11.7.1987
Amended by:
►A1 Act of Accession of Greece L 291 17 19.11.1979
►A2 Act of Accession of Spain and Portugal L 302 23 15.11.1985
►A3 Act of Accession of Austria, Sweden and Finland C 241 21 29.8.1994
(adapted by Council Decision 95/1/EC, Euratom, ECSC) L 1 1 1.1.1995
▼B
COUNCIL DIRECTIVE
of 27July 197 6
on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to
reflex reflectors for motor vehicles and their trailers
(76/757/EEC)
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES,
Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Economic
Community, and in particular Article 100 thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the Commission,Having regard to the opinion of the European Parliament (
1),
Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee (2),
Whereas the technical requirements which motor vehicles must satisfy
pursuant to national laws relate inter alia to their reflex reflectors;
Whereas those requirements differ from one Member State to another;
whereas it is therefore necessary that all Member States adopt the samerequirements either in addition to or in place of their existing rules in
order, in particular, to allow the EEC type-approval procedure, which
was the subject of Council Directive 70/156/EEC of 6 February 1970 onthe approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the type-approval of motor vehicles and their trailers (
3), to be introduced in
respect of each type of vehicle;
Whereas, in Directive 76/756/EEC (4), the Council laid down common
requirements for the installation of lighting and light-signalling deviceson motor vehicles and their trailers;
Whereas a harmonized type-approval procedure for reflectors makes it
possible for each Member State to check compliance with the common
construction and testing requirements and to inform the other Member
States of its findings by sending a copy of the component type-approvalcertificate completed for each type of reflex reflector; whereas theplacing of an EEC component type-approval mark on all reflexreflectors manufactured in conformity with the approved type obviates
any need for technical checks on these reflex reflectors in the Member
States;
Whereas it is desirable to take into account the technical requirements
adopted by the UN Economic Commission for Europe in its RegulationNo 3 (‘Uniform provisions for the approval of reflex reflecting devicesfor motor vehicles’) (
5), which is annexed to the Agreement of 20 March
1958 concerning the adoption of uniform conditions for approval and
reciprocal recognition of approval for motor vehicle equipment andparts;
Whereas the approximation of national laws relating to motor vehicles
entails reciprocal recognition by Member States of the checks carried
out by each of them on the basis of the common requirements,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DIRECTIVE:
Article 1
1. Each Member State shall grant EEC component type-approval for
any type of reflex reflector which satisfies the construction and testing1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 2
(1) OJ No C 55, 13. 5. 1974, p. 14.
(2) OJ No C 109, 19. 9. 1974, p. 26.
(3) OJ No L 42, 23. 2. 1970, p. 1.
(4) See page 1 of this Official Journal.
(5) Economic Commission for Europe, Document
E/ECE/324/C148/C147/C147/C147/C149/C147/C147/C147/C150Addendum 2.E/ECE/TRANS/505
▼B
requirements laid down in Annexes 0, I, III, V, VI, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI
and XII.
2. The Member State which has granted EEC component type-
approval shall take the measures required in order verify that production
models conform to the approved type, in so far as this is necessary and ifneed be in cooperation with the competent authorities in the otherMember States. Such verification shall be limited to spot checks.
Article 2
Member States shall, for each type of reflex reflector which they
approve pursuant to Article 1, issue to the manufacturer, or to hisauthorized representative, an EEC component type-approval mark
conforming to the model shown in Annex III.
Member States shall take all appropriate measures to prevent the use of
marks liable to create confusion between reflex reflectors which havebeen type-approved pursuant to Article 1, and other devices.
Article 3
1. No Member State may prohibit the placing on the market of reflex
reflectors on grounds relating to their construction or method offunctioning if they bear the EEC component type-approval mark.
2. Nevertheless, a Member State may prohibit the placing on the
market of reflex reflectors bearing the EEC component type-approval
mark which consistently fail to conform to the approved type.
That State shall forthwith inform the other Member States and the
Commission of the measures taken, specifying the reasons for itsdecision.
Article 4
The competent authorities of each Member State shall within one month
send to the competent authorities of the Member States a copy of thecomponent type-approval certificates, an example of which is given inAnnex II, completed for each type of reflex reflector which they approve
or refuse to approve.
Article 5
1. If the Member State which has granted EEC component type-
approval finds that a number of reflex reflectors bearing the same EEC
component type-approval mark do not conform to the type which it hasapproved, it shall take the necessary measures to ensure that productionmodels conform to the approved type. The competent authorities of thatState shall advise those of the other Member States of the measures
taken which may, where there is consistent failure to conform, extend to
withdrawal of EEC component type-approval. The said authorities shalltake the same measures if they are informed by the competentauthorities of another Member State of such failure to conform.
2. The competent authorities of the Member States shall within one
month inform each other of any withdrawal of EEC component type-approval and of the reasons for such a measure.
Article 6
Any decision taken pursuant to the provisions adopted in implementa-
tion of this Directive, to refuse or withdraw type-approval for a reflex
reflector or prohibit its placing on the market or use shall set out in detailthe reasons on which it is based. Such decision shall be notified to theparty concerned, who shall at the same time be informed of the remediesavailable to him under the laws in force in the Member States and of thetime limits allowed for the exercise of such remedies.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 3
▼B
Article 7
No Member State may refuse to grant EEC type-approval or national
type-approval of a vehicle on grounds relating to its reflex reflectors if
these bear the EEC component type-approval mark and are fitted in
accordance with with the requirements laid down in Directive 76/756/EEC.
Article 8
No Member State may refuse or prohibit the sale, registration, entry into
service or use of any vehicle on grounds relating to its reflex reflectors ifthese bear the EEC component type-approval mark and are fitted inaccordance with the requirements laid down in Directive 76/756/EEC.
Article 9
For the purposes of this Directive, ‘vehicle’ means any motor vehicle
intended for use on the road, with or without bodywork, having at least
four wheels and a maximum design speed exceeding 25 km/h, and its
trailers, with the exception of vehicles which run on rails, agriculturaltractors and machinery and public works vehicles.
Article 10
Any amendments necessary to adjust the requirements of the Annexes to
take account of technical progress shall be adopted in accordance withthe procedure laid down in Article 13 of Directive 70/156/EEC.
Article 11
1. Member States shall adopt and publish the provisions necessary in
order to comply with this Directive before 1 July 1977 and shallforthwith inform the Commission thereof. They shall apply theseprovisions from 1 October 1977 at the latest.
2. Once this Directive has been notified, the Member States shall also
ensure that the Commission is informed, in sufficient time for it tosubmit its comments, of any draft laws, regulations or administrativeprovisions which they propose to adopt in the field covered by thisDirective.
Article 12
This Directive is addressed to the Member States.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 4
▼B
List of Annexes
Annex 0 (*) — Definitions, conformity of production, general specifica-
tions, special specifications
Annex I — Definitions of technical terms
— Appendix 1: Symbols and units
— Appendix 2: Symbols
Annex II — Model EEC component type-approval certificate
Annex III — EEC component type-approval and marking requirements
— Appendix: Example of EEC component type-approval mark
(Annex IV)Annex V (*) — Test procedure
Annex VI (*) — Specifications of shape and dimensions
— Appendix: Reflex reflectors for trailers — Class III
Annex VII (*) — Colorimetric specifications
Annex VIII (*) — Photometric specificationsAnnex IX (*) — Resistance to external agents
Annex X (*) — Stability of the optical properties with ageing
Annex XI (*) — Resistance to heatAnnex XII (*) — Colour-fastness
Appendix to the Annexes: Chronological order of tests.
(*) The technical requirements of this Annex are similar to those of Regulation No 3 of the
Economic Commission for Europe. In particular, the breakdown into sections is thesame. For this reason, where a section of Regulation No 3 has no counterpart in this
Directive, its number is gixen in brackets for the record.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 5
▼B
ANNEX 0
DEFINITIONS, CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION, GENERAL SPECI-
FICATIONS, SPECIAL SPECIFICATIONS
(1.)
2. DEFINITIONS
2.1. The definitions of the technical terms used in this Directive are given
in Annex I.
2.2. A type of reflex reflector is defined by the models and descriptive
literature submitted with the application for EEC component type-
approval. Reflex reflectors may be considered as belonging to a type
if they have one or more ‘reflex reflecting optical units’ which are
identical with those of the standard model of that type, and if their
other parts differ from those of the standard model only in ways not
affecting the properties to which this Directive applies.
2.3. Reflex reflectors are divided into two classes according to their
photometric characteristics: ‘Class I’ and ‘Class III’ (see 4.3 of
Annex III).
(3.)
(4.)5. CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION
5.1. Every device bearing an EEC component type-approval mark must
conform to the type approved under that mark. The competent
authority issuing the EEC component type-approval mark shall
retain two samples which together with the EEC component type-
approval certificate shall serve to establish whether reflex reflectors
put on the market bearing the EEC component type-approval mark
satisfy this condition.
(5.2.)
(5.3.)
6. GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
6.1. Reflex reflectors must be so constructed that they function
satisfactorily under normal conditions of use. In addition, they
must not have any defect in design or manufacture which is
detrimental to their efficient operation or maintenance in good
condition.
6.2. The components of reflex reflectors must not be capable of being
easily dismantled.
6.3. The optical units of reflex reflectors must not be replaceable.
6.4. The outer surface of reflex reflectors must be easy to clean. Hence it
must not be a rough surface. It may however, have protuberances,
provided cleaning remains easy.
7. SPECIAL SPECIFICATIONS (TESTS)
7.1. Reflex reflectors must also satisfy the conditions as to dimensions
and shape, and the colorimetric, photometric, physical and mechan-
ical requirements set forth in Annexes VI to XII.
7.2. Depending on the nature of the materials of which the reflex
reflectors and in particular their optical units are made, the
competent authorities may authorize laboratories to omit certain
unnecessary tests, subject to the express reservation that such
omission must be mentioned under ‘Remarks’ on the EEC
component type-approval certificate.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 6
▼B
ANNEX I
DEFINITIONS OF TECHNICAL TERMS
I.1. REFLEX REFLECTION
‘Reflex reflection’ means reflection in which light is reflected in
directions close to the direction from which it came. This property is
maintained over wide variations of the illumination angle.
I.2. REFLEX REFLECTING OPTICAL UNIT
‘Reflex reflecting optical unit’ means the combination of optical
components producing reflex reflection.
I.3. REFLEX REFLECTOR
‘Reflex reflector’ means a device used to indicate the presence of a
vehicle by the reflection of light emanating from a light source not
connected to the vehicle, the observer being situated near the source.
For the purposes of this Directive, the following are not considered as
reflex reflectors:
— retro-reflecting number plates;
— the retro-reflecting signals mentioned in the ADR;
— other plates and retro-reflecting signals which must be used to
comply with a Member State's specifications for use as regards
certain categories of vehicles or certain methods of operation.
I.4. ILLUMINATING SURFACE OF A REFLEX REFLECTOR
‘Illuminating surface of a reflex reflector’ means the illuminating
surface of a reflex reflector in a plane perpendicular to the axis of
reference and bounded by planes touching the outer edges of the light
projection surface of the reflex reflector and parallel to this axis. To
determine the lower, upper and lateral limits of the illuminating
surface, only vertical and horizontal planes shall be used.
I.5. AXIS OF REFERENCE
‘Axis of reference’ means the characteristic axis of the light signal,
determined by the manufacturer for use as the direction of reference
(H = 0º, V = 0º) for photometric measurements and when fitting the
reflex reflector to the vehicle.
I.6. CENTRE OF REFERENCE
‘Centre of reference’ means the intersection of the axis of reference
with the exterior light-emitting surface, specified by the manufacturer
of the reflex reflector.
I.7. ANGLE OF DIVERGENCE
‘Angle of divergence’ means the angle between the straight lines
connecting the centre of reference to the centre of the receiver and to
the centre of the source of illumination.
I.8. ILLUMINATION ANGLE
‘Illumination angle’ means the angle between the axis of reference
and the straight line connecting the centre of reference to the centre of
the source of illumination.
I.9. ANGLE OF ROTATION
‘Angle of rotation’ means the angle through which the reflex reflector
is rotated about its axis of reference starting from one given position.
I.10. ANGULAR DIAMETER OF THE REFLEX REFLECTOR
‘Angular diameter of the reflex reflector’ means the angle subtended
by the greatest dimension of the visible area of the illuminating
surface, either at the centre of the source of illumination or at the
centre of the receiver.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 7
▼B
I.11. ILLUMINATION OF THE REFLEX REFLECTOR
‘Illumination of the reflex reflector’ means the illumination measured
in a plane perpendicular to the incident rays and passing through the
centre of reference.
I.12. COEFFICIENT OF LUMINOUS INTENSITY (CIL)
‘Coefficient of luminous intensity’ means the luminous intensity
reflected in the direction considered, divided by the illumination of
the reflex reflector for given angles of illumination, divergence and
rotation.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 8
▼B
Appendix 1
SYMBOLS AND UNITS
A = Area of the illuminating surface of the reflex reflector (cm2)
C = Centre of reference.
NC = Axis of reference.Rr = Receiver, observer or measuring device.
Cr = Centre of receiver.
Ør = Diameter of receiver Rr if circular (cm).Se = Source of illumination.Cs = Centre of source of illumination.
Øs = Diameter of source of illumination (cm).
De = Distance from centre Cs to centre C (m).D′e = Distance from centre Cr to centre C (m).
Note: De and D ′e are generally very nearly the same and under normal
conditions of observation it shall be assumed that De = D ′e.
D = Observation distance from and beyond which the illuminating surface
appears to be continuous.
α = Angle of divergence.
β = Illumination angle. With respect to the line CsC which is always
considered to be horizontal, this angle is prefixed with signs − (left), +
(right), + (up) or − (down), according to the position of the source Se in
relation to the axis NC, as seen when looking towards the reflex
reflector.
For any direction defined by two angles, vertical and horizontal, the
vertical angle is always given first.
γ = Angular diameter of the measuring device Rr as seen from point C.
δ = Angular diameter of the source Se as seen from point C.
ε = Angle of rotation. This angle is positive when the rotation is clockwise
as seen when looking towards the illuminating surface.
If the reflex reflector is marked ‘TOP’, the position thus indicated is
taken as the origin.
E = Illumination of the reflex reflector (lux).
CIL = Coefficient of luminous intensity (millicandelas/lux). Angles are
expressed in degrees and minutes.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 9
▼B
Appendix 2
SYMBOLS
ELEVATION1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 10
▼B
ANNEX II
MODEL EEC COMPONENT TYPE-APPROVAL CERTIFICATE
(Maximum format: A4 (210 × 297 mm))
1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 11
▼B
ANNEX III
EEC COMPONENT TYPE-APPROVAL AND MARKING REQUIRE-
MENTS
1. APPLICATION FOR EEC COMPONENT TYPE-APPROVAL
1.1. The application for EEC component type-approval shall be
submitted by the holder of the trade name or mark or by his
authorized representative.
1.2. In the case of each type of reflex reflector, the application shall be
accompanied by:
1.2.1. a brief description of the technical specifications of the materials
constituting the reflex reflecting optical unit;
1.2.2. drawings (three copies) in sufficient detail to permit identification of
the type, showing geometrically the position in which the reflex
reflector is to be fitted to the vehicle. The drawings shall indicate the
intended position of the component type-approval number and the
additional symbol in relation to the rectangle surrounding the EEC
component type-approval mark;
1.2.3. samples of the reflex reflector in red. The number of samples to be
submitted is indicated in Annex V;
1.2.4. possibly, two amber and/or colourless samples for situations where
component type-approval is to be simultaneously or subsequently
extended to amber and/or colourless devices.
2. MARKINGS
2.1. Reflex reflectors submitted for EEC component type-approval must
bear:
— the trade name or mark of the applicant, which must be clearly
legible and indelible,
— the mark or marks ‘TOP’, appearing horizontally at the top of the
illuminating surface, if required to determine unequivocally the
angle or angles of rotation specified by the manufacturer.
2.2. Each reflex reflector shall have sufficient space for the EEC
component type-approval mark. This space shall be indicated on the
drawings referred to in 1.2.2.
3. EEC COMPONENT TYPE-APPROVAL
3.1. If all the samples submitted in accordance with section 1 meet the
requirements of sections 6 and 7 of Annex 0, EEC component type-
approval shall be granted and a component type-approval number
issued.
3.2. This number shall not be allocated to any other type of reflex
reflector except where EEC component type-approval is extended to
another type differing only in colour.
3.3. If EEC component type-approval is requested for a type of lighting
and light-signalling device comprising a reflex reflector and other
lamps, a single EEC component type-approval mark may be
allocated provided that the reflex reflector complies with the
requirements of this Directive and that each of the other lamps
forming part of the type of lighting and light-signalling device for
which EEC component type-approval is requested, complies with
the specific Directive applying to it.
4. MARKS
4.1. Every reflex reflector conforming to a type approved pursuant to this
Directive shall bear an EEC component type-approval mark.
4.2. This mark shall consist of a rectangle surrounding the lower case
letter ‘e’, followed by the distinguishing letter(s) or number of the
Member State which has granted the component type-approval:
1 for Germany,
2 for France,1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 12
▼A2
▼A2
3 for Italy,
4 for the Netherlands,6 for Belgium,9 for Spain,
11 for the United Kingdom,
13 for Luxembourg,DK for Denmark,
EL for Greece,IRL for Ireland,
P for Portugal,
12 for Austria,
17 for Finland,
5 for Sweden.
It must also include the EEC component type-approval number
which corresponds to the number of the EEC component type-
approval certificate issued for the type of reflex reflector in question.
4.3. The EEC component type-approval mark must be supplemented by
the additional symbol, consisting of the roman numeral I or III
indicative of the class in which the reflex reflector is classified when
EEC component type-approval is granted.
4.4. The EEC component type-approval number must be placed in any
convenient position near the rectangle surrounding the letter ‘e’.
4.5. The EEC component type-approval mark and the additional symbol
shall be affixed to the lens of the lamp or one of the lenses in such a
way as to be indelible and clearly legible even when the reflex
reflectors are fitted on the vehicle.
4.6. An example of the EEC component type-approval mark together
with the additional symbol is shown in the Appendix.
4.7. Where a single EEC component type-approval number is issued, as
under 3.3, for a type of lighting and light-signalling device
comprising a reflex reflector and other lamps, a single EEC
component type-approval mark may be affixed, consisting of:
— a rectangle surrounding the letter ‘e’, followed by the
distinguishing letter(s) or number of the Member State which
has granted the component type-approval,
— an EEC component type-approval number,— the additional symbols required by the various Directives under
which EEC component type-approval was granted.
4.8. The dimensions of the various components of this mark must not be
less than the largest of the minimum dimensions specified for
individual markings by the various Directives under which the EEC
component type-approval was granted.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 13
▼M1
▼A2
▼A3
▼B
▼B
Appendix
EXAMPLE OF EEC COMPONENT TYPE-APPROVAL MARK
The reflex reflector bearing the EEC component type-approval mark shown above is a Class I reflector EEC
type-approved in the Netherlands (4) under the number 216.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 14
▼B
(ANNEX IV)1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 15
▼B
ANNEX V
TEST PROCEDURE
V.1. The applicant shall submit 10 samples for EEC component type-
approval.
V.2. After verification of the general specifications (section 6 of Annex 0)
and the specifications of shape and dimensions (Annex VI), the 10
samples shall be examined as to their colorimetric characteristics
(Annex VII) and CIL (Annex VIII) for an angle of divergence of 20 ′
and an illumination angle V = H = 0º or if necessary, in the position
defined in VIII.4 and VIII.4.1. The two reflex reflectors giving the
minimum and maximum values shall then be fully tested as shown in
VIII.3. These two samples shall be kept by the laboratories as
provided in 5.1 of Annex 0 for any further checks which may be
found necessary. The other eight samples shall be divided into four
groups of two:
First group — The two samples are subjected to the water
penetration test (IX.1) and then, if the result of this
test is satisfactory, to the tests for resistance to
motor fuels and lubricants (IX.3 and IX.4).
Second group — The two samples are, if necessary, subjected to
the corrosion test (IX.2) and then to the resistance
test for the reverse side of the reflex reflector (IX.5).
The same two samples are then subjected to the heat
test (Annex XI).
Third group — The two samples are subjected to the test for
stability of the optical properties with ageing (Annex
X).
Fourth group — The two samples are subjected to the colour-
fastness test (Annex XII).
V.3. After undergoing the tests referred to in V.2, the reflex reflectors in
each group must have:
3.1. a colour which satisfies the conditions laid down in Annex VII. This
shall be verified by a qualitative method, and, in case of doubt,
confirmed by a quantitative method;
3.2. a CIL which satisfies the conditions laid down in Annex VIII and
after the test reaches at least 60 % of the value previously obtained
with the same sample. The test shall be made only with an angle of
divergence of 20 ′and an illumination angle of V = H = 0º or, if
necessary, in the position defined in VIII.4 and VIII.4.1.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 16
▼B
ANNEX VI
SPECIFICATIONS OF SHAPE AND DIMENSIONS
VI.1. SHAPE AND DIMENSIONS OF REFLEX REFLECTORS IN
CLASS I
1.1. The illuminating surfaces of reflex reflectors in Class I must be
capable of being inscribed within a circle 200 mm in diameter.
1.2. The shape of the illuminating surfaces must be simple and not easily
confused with a letter, figure or triangle at normal observation
distances.
1.3. As an exception to 1.2, a shape resembling the simply formed letters
or figures 0, I, U or 8 is permissible.
VI.2. SHAPE AND DIMENSIONS OF REFLEX REFLECTORS IN
CLASS III
2.1. The illuminating surfaces of reflex reflectors in Class III must have
the shape of an equilateral triangle. If the word ‘TOP’ is inscribed in
one angle, this means that that angle must form the apex of the
triangle.
2.2. The illuminating surface may or may not have at its centre a
triangular, non-reflecting area, the sides of which are parallel to
those of the outer triangle.
2.3. The illuminating surface may or may not be continuous. In any case,
the shortest distance between two adjacent reflex reflecting optical
units must not exceed 15 mm.
2.4. The illuminating surface of a reflex reflector shall be considered to
be continuous if the edges of the illuminating surfaces of adjacent
separate optical units are parallel and if the said optical units are
evenly distributed over the whole solid surface of the triangle.
2.5. If the illuminating surface is not continuous, the number of separate
reflex reflecting optical units may not be less than four on each side
of the triangle including the corner units.
2.5.1. The separate reflex reflecting optical units must not be replaceable
unless they consist of approved reflex reflectors in Class I.
2.6. The outside edges of the illuminating surfaces of triangular reflex
reflectors in Class III must be between 150 and 200 mm long. In the
case of hollow-type devices, the minimum width of the sides,
measured at right angles to them, shall be at least 20 % of the
effective length between the extremities of the illuminating surfaces.
VI.3. Compliance with the above specifications may where appropriate be
visually established.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 17
▼B
Appendix
REFLEX REFLECTORS FOR TRAILERS — CLASS III
Note: These sketches are given as examples.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 18
▼B
ANNEX VII
COLORIMETRIC SPECIFICATIONS
VII.1. These specifications shall apply only to colourless, red or amber
reflex reflectors.
1.1. Reflex reflectors may consist of a combined reflex reflecting optical
unit and filter, which must be so designed that they cannot be
separated under normal conditions of use.
1.2. The colouring of reflex reflecting optical units and filters by means
of paint or varnish is not permitted.
VII.2. When the reflex reflector is illuminated by CIE standard illuminant
A, with an angle of divergence of 20 ′and an illumination angle V =
H = 0º, or, if this produces a colourless surface reflection, an angle
V = ± 5º, H = 0º, the trichromatic coordinates of the reflected
luminous flux must be within the following limits:
RED: limit towards yellow: y ≤0·335,
limit towards purple: z ≤0·008.
AMBER: limit towards yellow: y ≤0·429,
limit towards red: y ≥0·398,
limit towards white: z ≤0·007.
2.1. In the case of red and amber, compliance with the colorimetric
specifications shall be verified by a visual comparison test.
2.2. If any doubt remains after this test, compliance with the colorimetric
specifications shall be verified by determining the trichromatic
coordinates of the most doubtful sample.
VII.3. Colourless reflex reflectors must not produce a selective reflection;
that is to say, the trichromatic coordinates ‘x’ and ‘y’ of the standard
illuminant A used to illuminate the reflex reflector must not undergo
a change of more than 0·01 after reflection by the reflex reflector.
3.1. This shall be verified by the visual comparison test indicated in 2.1
the control field being illuminated by a light source of which the
trichromatic coordinates differ by 0·01 from that of standard
illuminant A.
3.2. In case of doubt, the trichromatic coordinates for the sample with
the greatest selective reflection shall be determined.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 19
▼B
ANNEX VIII
PHOTOMETRIC SPECIFICATIONS
VIII.1. When applying for EEC component type-approval, the applicant
shall specify the axis of reference. This corresponds to the
illumination angle V = H = 0º in the table of coefficients of
luminous intensity (CIL).
VIII.2. For photometric measurements, only the illuminating surface
contained within a circle of 120 mm diameter for Class I shall be
considered, and the illuminating surface itself shall be limited to
100 cm2for Class I although the surface of the reflex reflecting
optical units need not necessarily attain this area. The manufacturer
shall specify the perimeter of the area to be used. In the case of
Class III, the whole of the illuminating surfaces shall be considered
without limitation as to size.
VIII.3. The CIL values for red reflex reflectors must be not less than those
in the table below expressed in millicandelas per lux, for the angles
of divergence and illumination shown:
ClassAngle of
divergence αIllumination angles β
vertical V
horizontal H0º
0º+ and −10º
0º+ and −5º
+ and −20º
I2 0 ′ 100 50 50
1º 30′ 5 2·5 2·5
(II)
III 20 ′ 150 75 75
1º 30′ 7·5 3·75 3·75
CIL values lower than those shown in the last two columns of the
above table are not permissible within the solid angle having the
reference centre as its apex and bounded by the planes intersecting
along the following lines:
(V = + and − 10º, H = 0º) (V = + and − 5º, H = + and − 20º)
VIII.4. When the CIL of a reflex reflector is measured for an angle βof V
= H = 0º, it shall be ascertained whether any mirror effect is
produced by slightly turning the device. If there is any such effect,
a reading shall be taken with an angle βof V = between − 5 and +
5, H = 0º. The position adopted shall be that corresponding to the
minimum CIL for one of these positions.
4.1. With an illumination angle βof V = H = 0º, or the angle specified
in VIII.4, and an angle of divergence of 20 ′, reflex reflectors which
are not marked ‘TOP’ shall be rotated about their axes of reference
to the position of minimim CIL, which must conform to the value
specified in VIII.3. When the CIL is measured for the other angles
of illumination and divergence, the reflex reflector shall be placed
in the position corresponding to the specified value of the angle of
rotation ε. If the specified values are not attained, the device may
be rotated about its axis of reference between − 5 and + 5º from that
position.
4.2. With an illumination angle βof V = H = 0º, or the angle specified
in VIII.4, and an angle of divergence of 20 ′, reflex reflectors
marked ‘TOP’ shall be rotated between − 5 and + 5º about their
axis of reference. The CIL must not fall below the prescribed value
in any position assumed by the device during this rotation.
4.3. If for the direction V = H = 0º, and for ε= 0o the CIL exceeds the
specified value by 50 % or more, all measurements for all angles of
illumination and divergence shall be made for ε= 0º.
VIII.5. For making the necessary measurements, the method recommended
by CIE for the photometry of reflex reflectors shall be adopted.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 20
▼B
ANNEX IX
RESISTANCE TO EXTERNAL AGENTS
IX.1. RESISTANCE TO PENETRATION OF WATER
Reflex reflectors, whether or not grouped or reciprocally incorpo-
rated with a lamp, shall be stripped of all removable parts and
immersed for 10 minutes in water at a temperature of 25 ± 5 ºC, the
highest point of the upper part of the illuminating surface being about
20 mm below the surface of the water. This test shall be repeated
after turning the reflex reflector through 180º, so that the illuminating
surface is at the bottom and the reverse side covered by about 20 mm
of water.
1.1. No water must penetrate to the reflecting surface of the reflex
reflecting optical unit. If inspection clearly reveals the presence of
water, the device shall be considered to have failed the test.
1.2. If inspection does not reveal the presence of water, or in case of
doubt, the CIL shall be measured by the method described in V.3.2
after lightly shaking the reflex reflecting device to remove excesswater from the outside.
IX.2. RESISTANCE TO CORROSION
Reflex reflecting devices must be so designed that they retain the
prescribed photometric and colorimetric characteristics despite the
humidity and corrosive influences to which they are normally
exposed. The resistance of the front surface to tarnishing and that of
the protective rear surface to deterioration shall be checked when an
essential metal component appears susceptible to corrosion.
The reflex reflector, stripped of all removable parts, or the lamp with
which the reflex reflector is grouped or reciprocally incorporated,
shall be subjected to the action of a saline mist for a period of 50
hours, comprising two periods of exposure of 24 hours each,
separated by an interval of two hours during which the sample is
allowed to dry.
The saline mist shall be produced by atomizing, at a temperature of
35 ± 2 ºC, a saline solution obtained by dissolving 20 + 2 parts by
weight of sodium chloride in 80 parts of distilled water containing
not more than 0·02 % of impurities.
Immediately after completion of the test, the sample must not show
signs of excessive corrosion liable to impair the efficiency of the
device.
IX.3. RESISTANCE TO MOTOR FUELS
The outer surface of the reflex reflector and, in particular, of the
illuminating surface, shall be lightly wiped with a cotton cloth
soaked in a mixture of petrol and benzol (proportion 90: 10). After
about five minutes, the surface shall be inspected. It must not show
any visible change.
IX.4. RESISTANCE TO LUBRICATING OILS
The outer surface of the reflex reflector and, in particular, the
illuminating surface, shall be lightly wiped with a cotton cloth
soaked in a detergent lubricating oil. After about five minutes, the
surface shall be cleaned. The CIL shall then be measured (V.3.2.).
IX.5. RESISTANCE OF THE ACCESSIBLE REVERSE SIDE OF
MIRROR-BACKED REFLEX REFLECTORS
The reverse side of the reflex reflector shall be brushed with a hard
nylon brush and then covered or thoroughly wetted with a mixture of
petrol and benzol (proportion 90: 10) for one minute. The mixture
shall then be removed and the reflex reflector allowed to dry.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 21
▼B
As soon as evaporation is completed, an abrasion test shall be carried
out by brushing the reverse side with the same nylon brush as before.
The CIL shall then be measured (V.3.2) after the whole surface of the
mirror-backed reverse side has been covered with indian ink.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 22
▼B
ANNEX X
STABILITY OF THE OPTICAL PROPERTIES WITH AGEING
X.1. The administration which granted EEC component type-approval may
check the stability of the optical properties of a type of reflex reflector
in service as ageing takes place.
X.2. The competent authorities of Member States other than the State in
which EEC component type-approval was granted may carry out
similar checks in their territory. If a type of reflex reflector displays a
consistent failure to conform when in use, they shall send any parts
selected for testing to the authority which granted EEC component
type-approval, with a request for its opinion.
X.3. In the absence of other criteria, the concept of ‘consistent failure to
conform’ of a type of reflex reflector when in use shall be interpreted
in accordance with 6.1 of Annex 0.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 23
▼B
ANNEX XI
RESISTANCE TO HEAT
XI.1. The reflex reflector shall be kept for a period of 12 hours in a dry
atmosphere at a temperature of 65 ± 2 ºC.
XI.2. After this test, no cracking or appreciable distortion of the reflex
reflector, and in particular, of its optical units must be visible.
XI.3. The colorimetric and photometric characteristics shall be checked in
accordance with V.3.1 and V.3.2.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 24
▼B
ANNEX XII
COLOUR-FASTNESS
XII.1. The authority which granted EEC component type-approval may
check the colour-fastness of a type of reflex reflector in service.
XII.2. The competent authorities of Member States other than the State in
which EEC component type-approval was granted may carry out
similar checks in their territory. If a type of reflex reflector displays
a consistent failure to conform when in use, they shall send any
parts selected for testing to the administration which granted EEC
component type-approval, with a request for its opinion.
XII.3. In the absence of other criteria, the concept of ‘consistent failure to
conform’ of a type of reflex reflector when in use shall be
interpreted in accordance with 6.1 of Annex 0.1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 25
▼B
Appendix to Annexes
CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER OF TESTS
Section TestSamples
abcdefghij
0.6 General specifications: visual exam-
ination××××××××××
VI. Shapes and dimensions: visual
examination××××××××××
VII. Colorimetry: visual examination
trichromatic coordinates in case of
doubt××××××××××
VIII. Photometry: limited to 20 ′and V = H
=0 º××××××××××
VIII.3. Complete × ×
IX.1. Water: 10 minutes in normal position × ×
10 minutes in inverted position × ×
visual examination × ×
V.3.1. Colorimetry: visual examination × ×
trichromatic coordinates in case of
doubt××
V.3.2. Photometry: limited to 20 ′and V = H
=0 º××
IX.3. Motor fuels: five minutes × ×
visual examination × ×
IX.4. Oils: five minutes × ×
visual examination × ×
V.3.1. Colorimetry: visual examination × ×
trichromatic coordinates in case of
doubt××
V.3.2. Photometry: limited to 20 ′and V = H
=0 º××
IX.2. Corrosion: 24 hours × ×
two hours' interval × ×24 hours × ×
visual examination × ×
IX.5. Reverse side: one minute × ×
visual examination × ×
XI. Heat: 12 hours at 65 ± 2 ºC × ×
visual examination for distortion × ×
V.3.1. Colorimetry: visual examination × ×
trichromatic coordinates in case of
doubt××
V.3.2. Photometry: limited to 20 ′and V = H
=0 º××
X. Stability of optical properties with
ageing
V.3.1. Colorimetry: visual examinations or
trichromatic coordinates
V.3.2. Photometry: limited to 20 ′and V = H
=0 º
XII. Colour-fastness
V.3.1. Colorimetry: visual examination or
trichromatic coordinates
V.3.2. Photometry: limited to 20 ′and V = H
=0 º
0.5.1. Deposit of samples with administra-
tion××1976L0757 — EN — 01.01.1995 — 004.001 — 26