Efficient work truck lighting is essential for vocational fleets in virtually all applications. Yet, each application has different lighting requirements. SoundOff Signal’s Brent Walker explains why lighting is important, offers insight on what fleets risk if they don’t have adequate lighting, and shares about the brand’s different products.
MWS: SOUNDOFF SIGNAL IS NO STRANGER TO MODERN WORKTRUCK SOLUTIONS MAGAZINE, BUT CAN YOU SHARE A LITTLE ABOUT THE COMPANY THAT OUR READERS DON’T KNOW?
WALKER: Founded in 1992, SoundOff started as a manufacturer of small motorcycle flashers but quickly branched off into lighting products for emergency vehicles. By the early 2000s, SoundOff was providing high-tech safety solutions for first-responder teams worldwide. With an innovative, entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to reliable, relatable customer service, SoundOff Signal has continued to push the envelope for advancements in integrated, strategic lighting and controls for law enforcement, fire, EMS, and work truck vehicles. SoundOff is mostly known for its mpower silicone lighting designed for all types of emergency and work truck vehicles. It’s the first optic grade patented silicone lens that is shatterproof, making it the most durable light in the market, which reduces the total cost of ownership.
As a global leader, SoundOff is committed to a strategic focus on innovation, continuous improvement, and quality, providing systems that work together seamlessly to improve vehicle visibility and communication when needed most. Building trust, living excellence, continued innovation, and top-notch customer service are the four core values the company lives on.
Snowplows, contractor trucks, utility vehicles, construction fleets, and other heavy-duty equipment each possesses their own lighting needs. SoundOff is dedicated to delivering solutions that create safer working environments for all.
MWS: WHY IS VEHICLE LIGHTING SO IMPORTANT IN THE WORK TRUCK INDUSTRY?
WALKER: Vehicle lighting is important for several reasons. Safety is the number one reason. Work trucks are often used in hazardous environments, such as construction sites, road work zones, or emergency situations, like accidents in the roadway. Vehicle lighting is critical in these environments to ensure that the truck and the worker are visible to oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and even others at the worksite. Proper lighting alerts others of presence, helping prevent accidents and injuries.
Compliance is another important factor. Many industries have specific regulations to abide by. It’s important to ensure these requirements are met. Citations and fines imposed by regulatory and law enforcement agencies may be unnecessary cost affecting budgets.
Lastly, productivity is also of high importance. Work truck operators often work long hours or in many cases, after dark. Appropriate lighting will help these workers not only see better but perform their job more efficiently and not to mention, more safely.
For every pivotal, high-pressure moment, SoundOff is on the scene—lighting the way so those working can focus on the job at hand.
MWS: WHAT DO FLEET OWNERS AND OPERATORS RISK IF THEY DON’T EMPLOY ADEQUATE SAFETY LIGHTING?
WALKER: There are several consequences when adequate warning lighting is not used. First and foremost, increased risk of accidents and injuries. As previously mentioned, without sufficient lighting, these fleet vehicles are less visible to others around them. This increases the risk of accidents, especially in dark conditions or dangerous environments where visibility is already impaired.
If an accident were to occur, fleet owners and operators risk an increase in insurance premiums, workers compensations experience modifications, and liability costs, which, overall, adds to company expense. Not to mention, if an accident should occur, there is the risk of a ruined reputation. Customers, employees, and the public may view the company as unsafe or irresponsible, which can lead to loss of business or damage to the brand.
All in all, investing in effective and efficient vehicle lighting solutions enables fleet owners and operators to protect their drivers, their reputation, and avoid costly fines and fees.
MWS: WHAT ARE SOME SOUNDOFF SIGNAL PRODUCTS THAT FLEET OWNERS SHOULD HAVE ON THEIR RADAR?
WALKER: The mpower silicone lighting line of products is a must. This technology is a versatile, durable, and high-performance lighting system designed to be used in a wide range of applications, like work trucks, tow trucks, and other commercial vehicles. One key feature of this type of lighting is its modular design. mpower silicone lighting consists of individual LED light modules that allow for flexible installation and customization. The light modules are made of high-quality silicone material, which is resistant to water, dust, and other environmental factors, ensuring long-lasting performance and durability.
mpower products and other SoundOff Signal products include programmable flash patterns, synchronization capabilities, and multiple color options. The control systems used to operate these functions can be wireless or hardwired depending on the choice of install. Product offerings include but are not limited to lightbars, beacons, traffic controllers, perimeter lighting, interior lighting, and more.
MWS: THIS ISSUE IS OUR PRODUCTS AND SERVICES GUIDE. ARE THERE ANY NEW SOUNDOFF SIGNAL PRODUCTS COMING DOWN THE PIPELINE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE A LITTLE ABOUT?
WALKER: Of course! SoundOff recently launched its newest traffic controller, the TM100, which is a bright, affordable, easy-to-install solution for traffic advising and warning. This equipment is weatherproof with vibration-resistant light design for external or internal use. It has a visor layout and 1.8-inch light-emitting surface, providing clarity even under sunlight.
Another product prepping for launch is the XF Flush Mount perimeter light. This new light is a compact, flush-mount emergency light designed to fit seamlessly into any vehicle. Single and dual-color models are available with dimmable low-power input. The low-profile light with advanced LED output will sync with other perimeter lights so there is an orchestrated synchronized flash pattern that will make the scene more calm than with random flashing lights.
SoundOff continues to focus on innovation and creating new products to meet the everchanging needs of the work truck market. Our team always welcomes the opportunity to chat and discuss solutions for your fleet needs.
MWS: ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS?
WALKER: Through the innovation of thoughtfully designed, engineered, and manufactured products coupled with world-class customer service, SoundOff is committed to improving safety with appropriate lighting. If you are interested in learning more about SoundOff Signal’s innovative solutions, please visit our website or reach out to a member of our team. Another great way to keep up and connect with SoundOff Signal is through our social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. In these areas, you’ll find not only the latest and greatest, but also be the first to know when we have a new product launch.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
As director of sales for national accounts and OEM, Brent Walker oversees the sales operations of SoundOff Signal. In this role, he works with the team to develop strategic plans to meet and achieve sales targets while cultivating customer relationships in order to meet their business needs and objectives. Walker has been with SoundOff for seven years, joining the organization as a business development manager for the amber market.
He brings extensive experience and understanding to the SoundOff Signal team, bringing a combined 25 years as a critical care paramedic for Life EMS and the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department. Walker loves the committed, family feel of working in the public safety industry and brings this approach to all SoundOff Signal long-term customer relationships. Fun fact about Walker: He delivered five babies on the field, including a set of twins. Outside of work, you’ll find him cooking or woodworking. Find out more, visit www.soundoffsignal.com.
