Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing Lamps) 2005

Mechanically, this Australian Design Rule (ADR 1/00) sets out the technical, photometric and test-procedure requirements that reversing lamps fitted to vehicles must meet if those lamps are required to comply with ADR 1/00. The instrument does three discrete things on its face. First, it adopts the technical substance of United Nations Regulation No. 23 (UN Reg 23) , the UN provisions governing approval, photometry and testing for reversing lamps , as the baseline technical standard via Appendix A (UN Regulation No. 23/00) (see Appendix A title; part 7.1). Second, it modifies and limits which parts of UN Reg 23 apply in Australia by excluding specified administrative and approval provisions and by varying conformity and sampling procedures (see part 5.1 and subparagraphs 5.1.1 and 5.1.2). Third, it provides an explicit two-route compliance mechanism: reversing lamps must either meet the technical requirements of Appendix A as varied by parts 5 and 6 (the modified UN text), or they may comply with one of the alternative standards listed in part 7 (UN Regulation No. 23 in any of its versions) (see s 4.1 a) and b); s 7.1).

The instrument’s stated policy purpose is procedural and technical: to prescribe photometric requirements that will warn pedestrians and other road users that a vehicle is about to move or is moving in reverse, and which during hours of darkness will aid the driver in reversing manoeuvres (s 1 Scope). That purpose appears only as a descriptive scope statement; the ADR implements that purpose by putting photometric minima and maxima, colour coordinates, test voltages, sampling procedures and conformity thresholds into force (Appendix A, Regulations 5-9; Annexes 3-6). The ADR also cross-references other ADRs (13/…, 19/… or 67/…) to determine when reversing lamps are mandatory, optional or prohibited for particular vehicle classes (s 2.1).

Commonwealth Coat of Arms

Made under section 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018

Compilation: 1 (up to and including Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1))

Compilation Date: 20 January 2023

Compiled by: Vehicle Safety Policy and Partnerships, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts

CONTENTS

0.1 NAME OF STANDARD

SCOPE
APPLICABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION
DEFINITIONS
REQUIREMENTS
EXEMPTIONS AND ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURES
SUPPLEMENTARY GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
ALTERNATIVE STANDARDS
NOTES

COMPILATION NOTES

0.1 NAME OF STANDARD

0.1.1 This Standard is the Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing Lamps) 2005.

0.1.2 This Standard may also be cited as Australian Design Rule 1/00 — Reversing Lamps.

SCOPE

This vehicle standard prescribes the photometric requirements for reversing lamps which will warn pedestrians and other road users that the vehicle is about to move or is moving in the reverse direction, and which during the hours of darkness will aid the driver in reversing manoeuvres.

APPLICABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION

2.1. The circumstances under which reversing lamps are mandatory, optional, or prohibited are set out in either ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/….

DEFINITIONS

3.1. Refer to paragraph 1 of Appendix A.

REQUIREMENTS

4.1. Reversing lamps fitted to vehicles in accordance with ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/… and required to comply with ADR 1/00 must comply with either:

a) The technical requirements of Appendix A as varied by part 5. Exemptions and Alternative Procedures and part 6. Supplementary General Requirements; or

b) One of the alternative standards listed in part 7. Alternative Standards.

EXEMPTIONS AND ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURES

5.1. The following provisions of Appendix A are not applicable.

Section 2 Application for approval

Section 3 Markings

Section 4 Approval

Section 9 Conformity of production – partial (for particular deletions to the section refer to paragraphs 5.1.1 and 5.1.2)

Section 10 Penalties for non-conformity of production

Section 11 Production definitely discontinued

Section 12 Names and addresses of technical services responsible for conducting approval tests and of administrative departments

Annex 1 communication concerning the approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval or production definitely discontinued of a type of reversing lamp pursuant to Regulation No.23

Annex 2 Examples of arrangements of approval marks

5.1.1. The opening paragraph in Section 9, paragraph 9.4 and

5.1.2. Paragraphs 2.3 and 3.3 in Annex 6

SUPPLEMENTARY GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

The following general requirements are supplementary to the requirements of Appendix A

6.1. The requirements and procedures set out in Annexes 5 and 6 of Appendix A set out alternative limits for some of the photometric and colorimetric requirements in sections 5 and 6 of Appendix A. Notwithstanding the limits in sections 5 and 6, lamps within the tolerances set out in Annex 5 sampled in accordance with Annex 6 will be considered compliant.

ALTERNATIVE STANDARDS

7.1. The technical requirements for reversing lamps in any of the versions United Nations Regulation No. 23 UNIFORM PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE APPROVAL OF REVERSING AND MANOEUVRING LAMPS FOR POWER-DRIVEN VEHICLES AND THEIR TRAILERS.

NOTES

8.1. In place of Regulation No. 48 where referenced in Appendix A, read ADR 13/00

8.2. In place of Regulation No.37 where referenced read ADR 51/00.

APPENDIX A

UN REGULATION No. 23/00

UNIFORM PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE APPROVAL OF REVERSING LIGHTS FOR MOTOR VEHICLES AND THEIR TRAILERS

REGULATION

Definitions
Application for approval
Markings
Approval.
General specifications
Intensity of light emitted
Test procedure
Colour of light emitted
Conformity of production
Penalties for non-conformity of production.
Production definitely discontinued
Names and addresses of technical services responsible for conducting approval tests, and of administrative departments.

ANNEXES

Annex 1 Communication concerning the approval (or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval) or production definitely discontinued, of a type of reversing lamp pursuant to Regulation No. 23

Annex 2 Examples of arrangements of approval marks

Annex 3 Photometric measurements

Annex 4 Colour of white light (trichromatic coordinates)

Annex 5 Minimum requirements for conformity of production control procedures

Annex 6 Minimum requirements for sampling by an inspector

Regulation No. 23

UNIFORM PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE APPROVAL OF REVERSING LAMPS FOR POWER-DRIVEN VEHICLES AND THEIR TRAILERS

DEFINITIONS

1.1. For the purposes of this Regulation,

"reversing lamp" means the lamp of the vehicle designed to illuminate the road to the rear of the vehicle and to warn other road users that the vehicle is reversing or about to reverse;

1.2. The definitions given in Regulation No. 48 and its series of amendments in force at the time of application for type approval shall apply to this Regulation.

1.3. reversing lamps of different "types" are reversing lamps which differ in such essential respects as,

1.3.1. the trade name or mark;

1.3.2. the characteristics of the optical system;

1.3.3. the inclusion of components capable of altering the optical effects by reflection, refraction or absorption; and

1.3.4. the category of filament lamp.

APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL

2.1. The application for approval shall be submitted by the holder of the trade name or mark or by his duly accredited representative.

2.2. For each type of reversing lamp, the application shall be accompanied by:

2.2.1. drawings, in triplicate, in sufficient detail to permit identification of the type of the reversing lamp and showing in what geometrical position the reversing lamp is to be mounted on the vehicle; the axis of observation to be taken as the axis of reference in the tests (horizontal angle H = 0, vertical angle V = 0); and the point to be taken as the centre of reference in the said tests. The drawings must show the position intended for the approval number and the additional symbol in relation to the circle of the approval mark;

2.2.2. a brief technical description stating, in particular, with the exception of lamps with non- replaceable light sources, the category or categories of filament lamps prescribed; this filament lamp category shall be one of those contained in Regulation No. 37;

2.2.3. two samples. If the devices ate not identical but are symmetrical and suitable for mounting one on the left and one on the right side of the vehicle, the two samples submitted may be identical and be suitable for mounting only on the right or only on the left side of the vehicle.

MARKINGS

The samples of a type of reversing lamp submitted for approval shall:

3.1. bear the trade name or mark of the applicant; this marking shall be clearly legible and

be indelible;

3.2. bear a clearly legible and indelible marking indicating the category or categories of filament lamps prescribed; this is not valid for reversing lamps with non-replaceable light sources;

3.3. if necessary in order to prevent any mistake in mounting the reversing lamp on the vehicle, bear the word "TOP" marked horizontally on the uppermost part of the illuminating surface;

3.4. provide adequate space for the approval mark and for the additional symbols prescribed in paragraph 4.3. below; the said space shall be shown in the drawings referred to in paragraph 2.2.1. above;

3.5. in the case of reversing lamps with non-replaceable light sources bear the marking of rated voltage and rated wattage.

APPROVAL

4.1. If the two samples of a type of reversing lamp meet the requirements of this Regulation, approval shall be granted.

4.2. An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. The same Contracting Party shall not assign the same number to another type of reversing lamp covered by this Regulation. Notice of approval or of extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval or production definitely discontinued of a type of reversing lamp pursuant to this Regulation shall be communicated to the Parties to the 1958 Agreement which apply this Regulation by means of a form conforming to the model in annex 1 to this Regulation.

4.3. Every reversing lamp conforming to a type approved under this Regulation shall bear in the space referred to in paragraph 3.4. above, in addition the mark and the particulars prescribed above in paragraphs 3.1., 3.2. and 3.3. or 3.5. respectively:

4.3.1. an international approval mark consisting of:

4.3.1.1. a circle surrounding the letter "E" followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted the approval; [1/] and

4.3.1.2. an approval number;

4.3.2. an additional symbol consisting of letters A and R, mingled as shown in annex 2 to this Regulation.

4.3.3. The first two digits of the approval number which indicate the most recent series of amendments to this Regulation may be placed in the vicinity of the additional symbol "AR".

4.3.4. On lamps of which the visibility angles are asymmetrical with regard to the reference axis in a horizontal direction, an arrow pointing towards the side on which the photometric specifications are met up to an angle of 45 degrees H.

4.4. When two or more lamps are part of the same assembly of grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps, approval is granted only if each of these lamps satisfies the requirements of this Regulation or of another Regulation. Lamps not satisfying any one of those Regulations shall not be part of such an assembly of grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps.

4.4.1. Where grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps comply with the requirements of several Regulations, a single international approval mark may be applied, consisting of a circle surrounding the letter "E" followed by the distinguishing number of the country which has granted the approval, an approval number and, if necessary, the required arrow. This approval mark may be placed anywhere on the grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps provided that;

4.4.1.1. It is visible after their installation;

4.4.1.2. No part of the grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps that transmits light can be removed without at the same time removing the approval mark.

4.4.2. The identification symbol for each lamp appropriate to each Regulation under which approval has been granted, together with the corresponding series of amendments incorporating the most recent major technical amendments to the Regulation at the time of issue of the approval, shall be marked:

4.4.2.1. Either on the appropriate light-emitting surface,

4.4.2.2. Or in a group, in such a way that each lamp of the grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps may be clearly identified (see three possible examples in annex 2).

4.4.3. The size of the components of a single approval mark shall not be less than the minimum size required for the smallest of the individual marks by a Regulation under which approval has been granted.

4.4.4. An approval number shall be assigned to each type approved. The same Contracting Party may not assign the same number to another type of grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps covered by this Regulation.

4.5. The mark and symbol referred to in paragraphs 4.3.1. and 4.3.2. shall be indelible and shall be clearly legible even when the reversing lamp is mounted on the vehicle.

4.6. Annex 2 gives examples of approval marks for a single lamp (figure 1) and for grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps (figure 2) with all the additional symbols referred to above, in which the letters A and R are mingled.

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

5.1. Each sample shall conform to the specifications set forth in the paragraphs below.

5.2. Reversing lamps shall be so designed and constructed that in normal use, despite the vibration to which they may then be subjected, they continue to function satisfactorily and retain the characteristics prescribed by this Regulation.

INTENSITY OF LIGHT EMITTED

6.1. The intensity of the light emitted by each of the two samples shall be not less than the minima and not greater than the maxima specified below and shall be measured in relation to the axis of reference in the directions shown below (expressed in degrees of angle with the axis of reference).

6.2. The intensity along the axis of reference shall be not less than 80 candelas.

6.3. The intensity of the light emitted in all directions in which the light can be observed shall not exceed

300 candelas in directions in or above the horizontal plane; or

600 candelas in directions below the horizontal plane.

6.4. In every other direction of measurement shown in annex 3 to this Regulation the luminous intensity shall be not less than the minima specified in that annex. However, in the case where the reversing lamp is intended to be installed on a vehicle exclusively in a pair of devices, the photometric intensity may be verified only up to an angle of 30 degrees inwards where a photometric value of at least 25 cd shall be satisfied.

This condition shall be clearly explained in the application for approval and relating documents (see paragraph 2 of this Regulation).

Moreover, in the case where the type approval will be granted applying the condition above, a statement in paragraph 11 "Comments" of the communication form (see annex 1 to this Regulation), will inform that the device shall only be installed in a pair.

6.5. In the case of a single lamp containing more than one light source, the lamp shall comply with the minimum intensity required when any one light source has failed and when all light sources are illuminated the maximum intensities shall not be exceeded.

TEST PROCEDURE

7.1. All measurements shall be carried out with uncoloured standard filament lamps of the types prescribed for the device, adjusted to produce the normal luminous flux prescribed for those types of filament lamps.

7.1.1. All measurements on lamps equipped with non-replaceable light sources (filament lamps and other) shall be made at 6.75 V, 13.5 V or 28.0 V respectively.

In the case of light sources supplied by a special power supply, the above test voltages shall be applied to the input terminals of that power supply. The test laboratory may require from the manufacturer the special power supply needed to supply the light sources.

COLOUR OF LIGHT EMITTED

The colour of the light emitted shall be white. In case of doubt, the colour may be checked on the basis of the definition of the colour of white light given in annex 4 to this Regulation.

CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

The conformity of production procedures shall comply with those set out in the Agreement, Appendix 2 (E/ECE/324-E/ECE/TRANS/505/Rev.2), with the following requirements:

9.1. Lamps approved under this regulation shall be so manufactured as to conform to the type approved by meeting the requirements set forth in paragraphs 6 and 8 above.

9.2. The minimum requirements for conformity of production control procedures set forth in

annex 5 to this Regulation shall be complied with.

9.3. The minimum requirements for sampling by an inspector set forth in annex 6 to this regulation shall be complied with.

9.4. The authority which has granted type approval may at any time verify the conformity control methods applied in each production facility. The normal frequency of these verifications shall be once every two years.

PENALTIES FOR NON-CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION

10.1. The approval granted in respect of a type of reversing lamp pursuant to this Regulation may be withdrawn if the foregoing requirements are not complied with or if a reversing lamp bearing the mark referred to in paragraphs 4.3.1. and 4.3.2. does not conform to the type approved.

10.2. If a Contracting Party to the Agreement which applies this Regulation withdraws an approval it has previously granted, it shall forthwith so notify the other Contracting Parties applying this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in annex 1 to this Regulation.

PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED

If the holder of the approval completely ceases to manufacture a type of reversing lamp approved in accordance with this Regulation, he shall so inform the authority which granted the approval. Upon receiving the relevant communication that authority shall inform thereof the other Parties to the 1958 Agreement which apply this Regulation by means of a communication form conforming to the model in annex 1 to this Regulation.

NAMES AND ADDRESSES OF TECHNICAL SERVICES RESPONSIBLE FOR CONDUCTING APPROVAL TESTS, AND OF ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENTS

The Parties to the 1958 Agreement which apply this Regulation shall communicate to the United Nations secretariat the names and addresses of the technical services responsible for conducting approval tests and of the administrative departments which grant approval and to which forms certifying approval or extension or refusal or withdrawal of approval, issued in other countries or production definitely discontinued, are to be sent.

Annex 1

COMMUNICATION

(maximum format: A4 (210 x 297 mm))

issued by: Name of administration:

Example of an approval mark [1]

concerning: [2/] APPROVAL

GRANTED

APPROVAL EXTENDED

APPROVAL REFUSED

APPROVAL WITHDRAWN

PRODUCTION DEFINITELY DISCONTINUED

of a type of reversing lamp

pursuant to Regulation No. 23

Approval No. Extension No.

Trade name or mark of the device:
Manufacturer's name for the type of device:
Manufacturer's name and address:
If applicable, name and address of the manufacturer's representative:
Submitted for approval on:
Technical service responsible for conducting approval tests:
Date of report issued by that service:
Number of report issued by that service:
Concise description:
Number and category of filament lamp(s): (1 x P21W)
Position of the approval mark:

Comments

This device shall be installed on a vehicle only as part of a pair of devices: yes/no [2/]
Reason(s) for extension (if applicable):
Approval granted/extended/refused/withdrawn: 2/
place:
Pate:
Signature:

The list of documents deposited with the Administrative service which has granted approval is annexed to this communication and may be obtained on request.

Annex 2

EXAMPLES OF ARRANGEMENTS OF APPROVAL MARKS

Figure 1 Marking for single lamps

Model A

Example of an approval mark for single lamps

The device bearing the approval mark shown above is a reversing lamp approved in the Netherlands (E 4) pursuant to Regulation No. 23 under approval number 221. The approval number indicates that the approval was granted in accordance with the requirements of Regulation No. 23 in its original form as amended by supplements 1 and /or 2, as the case may be. The arrow indicates the side on which the required photometric specifications are met up to an angle of 45 degrees H.

Note: The approval number and additional symbol shall be placed close to the circle and either above or below the letter "E" or to the left or right of that letter. The digits of the approval number and of the production serial number shall be on the same side of the letter "E" and face the same direction. The use of Roman numerals as approval numbers should be avoided so as to prevent any confusion with other symbols.

Figure 2

Simplified marking for grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps

(The vertical and horizontal lines schematize the shape of the light-signalling device. These are not part of the approval mark)

Three examples of simplified markings for grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps. Model B, Model C and Model D progressing down the page

Note: The three examples of approval marks, models B, C and D represent three possible variables for the marking of a lighting device when two or more lamps are part of the same assembly or grouped, combined or reciprocally incorporated lamps. This approval mark shows that the device was approved in the Netherlands (E 4) under approval number 3333 and comprising:

A reflex-retro reflector of class IA approved in accordance with the 02 series of amendments to Regulation No. 3;

A rear direction indicator lamp of category 2a approved in accordance with the 01 series of amendments to Regulation No. 6;

A red rear position lamp (R) approved in accordance with the 02 series of amendments to Regulation No. 7;

Annex 3

PHOTOMETRIC MEASUREMENTS

Measurement methods

When photometric measurements are taken, stray reflections shall be avoided by appropriate masking.

1.2. In the event that the results of measurements are challenged, measurements shall be taken in such a way as to meet the following requirements:

1.2.1. the distance of measurement shall be such that the law of the inverse of the square of the distance is applicable;

1.2.2. the measuring equipment shall be such that the angle subtended by the receiver from the reference centre of the light is between 10' and 1 degrees;

1.2.3. the intensity requirement for a particular direction of observation shall be satisfied if the required intensity is obtained in a direction deviating by not more than one quarter of a degree from the direction of observation.

Measuring points expressed in degrees of angle with the axis of reference and values of the minimum intensities of the light emitted

Diagram showing the photometric measuring points with the axis of reference and values of the minimum intensities of the light fitted.

2.1. The directions H = 0 degrees and V = 0 degrees correspond to the axis of reference. On the vehicle they are horizontal, parallel to the median longitudinal plane of the vehicle and oriented in the required direction of visibility. They pass through the centre of reference. The values shown in the table give, for the various directions of measurement, the minimum intensities in cd.

2.2. If visual examination of a lamp appears to reveal substantial local variations of intensity, a check shall be made to ensure that no intensity measured between two of the directions of measurement referred to above is below 50% of the lower minimum intensity of the two prescribed for these directions of measurement.

Photometric measurement of lamps equipped with several light sources

The photometric performance shall be checked:

3.1. For non-replaceable light sources (filament lamps and other):

with the light sources present in the lamp, in accordance with paragraph 7.1.1. of this Regulation.

3.2. For replaceable filament lamps:

when equipped with mass production filament lamps at 6.75 V, 13.5 V or 28.0 V the luminous intensity values produced shall lie between the maximum limit given in this Regulation and the minimum limit of this Regulation increased according to the permissible deviation of the luminous flux permitted for the type of filament lamp chosen, as stated in Regulation No. 37 for production filament lamps; alternatively a standard filament lamp may be used in turn, in each of the individual positions, operated at its reference flux, the individual measurements in each position being added together.

Annex 4

COLOUR OF WHITE LIGHT

(Trichromatic coordinates)

Limit towards blue : x > 0.310

" " yellow : x < 0.500

" " green : y < 0.150 + 0.640x

" " green : y < 0.440

" " purple : y > 0.050 + 0.750x

" " red : y > 0.382

For checking these colorimetric characteristics, a source of light at a colour temperature of 2,854 degrees K corresponding to illuminant A of the International Commission on Illumination (ICI) shall be used. However, for lamps equipped with non-replaceable light sources (filament lamps and other), the colorimetric characteristics should be verified with the light sources present in the lamp, in accordance with paragraph 7.1.1. of this Regulation.

Annex 5

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR CONFORMITY OF PRODUCTION CONTROL PROCEDURES

GENERAL

1.1. The conformity requirements shall be considered satisfied from a mechanical and geometric standpoint, if the differences do not exceed inevitable manufacturing deviations within the requirements of this Regulation.

1.2. With respect to photometric performances, the conformity of mass-produced lamps shall not be contested if, when testing photometric performances of any lamp chosen at random and equipped with a standard filament lamp, or when the lamps are equipped with non-replaceable light sources (filament lamps or other), and when all measurements are made at 6.75 V, 13.5 V or 28.0 V respectively:

1.2.1. no measured value deviates unfavourably by more than 20 % from the values prescribed in this Regulation.

1.2.2. If, in the case of a lamp equipped with a replaceable light source and if results of the test described above do not meet the requirements, tests on lamps shall be repeated using another standard filament lamp.

1.3. The chromaticity coordinates shall be complied with when the lamp is equipped with a standard filament lamp, or for lamps equipped with non-replaceable light sources (filament lamps or other), when the colorimetric characteristics are verified with the light source present in the lamp.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR VERIFICATION OF CONFORMITY BY THE MANUFACTURER

For each type of lamp the holder of the approval mark shall carry out at least the following tests, at appropriate intervals. The tests shall be carried out in accordance with the provisions of this Regulation.

If any sampling shows non-conformity with regard to the type of test concerned, further samples shall be taken and tested. The manufacturer shall take steps to ensure the conformity of the production concerned.

2.1. Nature of tests

Tests of conformity in this Regulation shall cover the photometric and colorimetric characteristics.

2.2. Methods used in tests

2.2.1. Tests shall generally be carried out in accordance with the methods set out in this Regulation.

2.2.2. In any test of conformity carried out by the manufacturer, equivalent methods may be used with the consent of the competent authority responsible for approval tests . The manufacturer is responsible for proving that the applied methods are equivalent to those laid down in this Regulation.

2.2.3. The application of paragraphs 2.2.1. and 2.2.2. requires regular calibration of test apparatus and its correlation with measurements made by a competent authority.

2.2.4. In all cases the reference methods shall be those of this Regulation, particularly for the purpose of administrative verification and sampling.

2.3. Nature of sampling

Samples of lamps shall be selected at random from the production of a uniform batch. A uniform batch means a set of lamps of the same type, defined according to the production methods of the manufacturer.

The assessment shall in general cover series production from individual factories. However, a manufacturer may group together records concerning the same type from several factories, provided these operate under the same quality system and quality management.

2.4. Measured and recorded photometric characteristics

The sampled lamp shall be subjected to photometric measurements for the minimum values at the points listed in annex 4 and the chromaticity coordinates listed in annex 5, provided for in the Regulation.

2.5. Criteria governing acceptability

The manufacturer is responsible for carrying out a statistical study of the test results and for defining, in agreement with the competent authority, criteria governing the acceptability of his products in order to meet the specifications laid down for verification of conformity of products in paragraph 9.1. of this Regulation.

The criteria governing the acceptability shall be such that, with a confidence level of 95 %, the minimum probability of passing a spot check in accordance with annex 6 (first sampling) would be 0.95.

Annex 6

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR SAMPLING BY AN INSPECTOR

GENERAL

1.1. The conformity requirements shall be considered satisfied from a mechanical and a geometric standpoint, in accordance with the requirements of this Regulation, if any, if the differences do not exceed inevitable manufacturing deviations.

1.2. With respect to photometric performance, the conformity of mass-produced lamps shall not be contested if, when testing photometric performances of any lamp chosen at random and equipped with a standard filament lamp, or when the lamps are equipped with non-replaceable light sources (filament lamps or other), and when all measurements are made at 6.75 V, 13.5 V or 28.0 V respectively:

1.2.1. no measured value deviates unfavourably by more than 20 % from the values prescribed in this Regulation.

1.2.3. Lamps with apparent defects are disregarded.

FIRST SAMPLING

In the first sampling four lamps are selected at random. The first sample of two is marked A, the second sample of two is marked B.

2.1. The conformity is not contested

2.1.1. Following the sampling procedure shown in Figure 1 of this annex the conformity of mass-produced lamps shall not be contested if the deviation of the measured values of the lamps in the unfavourable directions are:

2.1.1.1. sample A

A1: one lamp 0 %

one lamp not more than 20 %

A2: both lamps more than 0 %

but not more than 20 %

go to sample B

2.1.1.2. sample B

Bl: both lamps 0 %

2.1.2. or, if the conditions of paragraph 1.2.2. for sample A are fulfilled.

2.2. The conformity is contested

2.2.1. Following the sampling procedure shown in Figure 1 of this annex the conformity of mass-produced lamps shall be contested and the manufacturer requested to make his production meet the requirements (alignment) if the deviations of the measured values of the lamps are :

2.2.1.1. sample A

A3: one lamp not more than 20 %

one lamp more than 20 %

but not more than 30 %

2.2.1.2. sample B

B2: in the case of A2

one lamp more than 0 %

but not more than 20 %

one lamp not more than 20 %

B3: in the case of A2

one lamp 0 %

one lamp more than 20 %

but not more than 30 %

2.2.2. or, if the conditions of paragraph 1.2.2. for sample A are not fulfilled.

2.3. Approval withdrawn

Conformity shall be contested and paragraph 10 applied if, following the sampling procedure in Figure 1 of this annex, the deviations of the measured values of the lamps are:

2.3.1. sample A

A4: one lamp not more than 20 %

one lamp more than 30 %

A5: both lamps more than 20 %

2.3.2. sample B

B4: in the case of A2

one lamp more than 0 %

but not more than 20 %

one lamp more than 20 %

B5: in the case of A2

both lamps more than 20 %

B6: in the case of A2

one lamp 0 %

one lamp more than 30 %

2.3.3. or, if the conditions of paragraph 1.2.2. for samples A and B are not fulfilled.

REPEATED SAMPLING

In the cases of A3, B2, B3 a repeated sampling, third sample C of two lamps and fourth sample D of two lamps, selected from stock manufactured after alignment, is necessary within two months' time after the notification.

3.1. The conformity is not contested

3.1.1. Following the sampling procedure shown in Figure 1 of this annex the conformity of mass-produced lamps shall not be contested if the deviations of the measured values of the lamps are :

3.1.1.1. sample C

C1: one lamp 0 %

one lamp not more than 20 %

C2: both lamps more than 0 %

but not more than 20 %

go to sample D

3.1.1.2. sample D

D1: in the case of C2

both lamps 0 %

3.1.2. or, if the conditions of paragraph 1.2.2. for sample C are fulfilled.

3.2. The conformity is contested

3.2.1. Following the sampling procedure shown in Figure 1 of this annex the conformity of mass-produced lamps shall be contested and the manufacturer requested to make his production meet the requirements (alignment) if the deviations of the measured values of the lamps are :

3.2.1.1. sample D

D2: in the case of C2

one lamp more than 0 %

but not more than 20 %

one lamp not more than 20 %

3.2.1.2. or, if the conditions of paragraph 1.2.2. for sample C are not fulfilled.

3.3. Approval withdrawn

Conformity shall be contested and paragraph 10 applied if, following the sampling procedure in Figure 1 of this annex, the deviations of the measured values of the lamps are:

3.3.1. sample C

C3: one lamp not more than 20 %

one lamp more than 20 %

C4: both lamps more than 20 %

3.3.2. sample D

D3: in the case of C2

one lamp 0 or more than 0 %

one lamp more than 20 %

3.3.3. or, if the conditions of paragraph 1.2.2. for samples C and D are not fulfilled.

Figure 1

Flowchart summarising the sampling procedure to show the conformity of mass-produced lamps

COMPILATION NOTES

This compilation of Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing Lamps) 2005 includes all the instruments set out in the Table of Instruments. This vehicle standard is determined under section 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018.

The Table of Amendments provides a history of clauses that have been amended, inserted or deleted.

Table of Instruments

Name of Instrument	Registration Date	Commencement Date
Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing lamp) 2005 (F2005L03873)	21/11/2005	22/11/2005
Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1) (F2023L00042)	19/01/2023	20/01/2023

Table of Amendments

<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="width:454.1pt; border-collapse:collapse"><thead><tr><td style="width:95.3pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span style="font-weight:bold">Clause affected</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="width:74.25pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span style="font-weight:bold">How affected</span></p></td><td style="width:251.4pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span style="font-weight:bold">Amending instrument</span></p></td></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="width:95.3pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>0.2.</span></p></td><td style="width:67.15pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>del</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="width:258.5pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span style="font-style:italic">Legislation Act 2003</span><span> – section 48D</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:95.3pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>0.3.</span></p></td><td style="width:67.15pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>del</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="width:258.5pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span style="font-style:italic">Legislation Act 2003</span><span> – section 48C</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:95.3pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>4.1</span></p></td><td style="width:67.15pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>am</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="width:258.5pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1)</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:95.3pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>5.1.</span></p></td><td style="width:67.15pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>am</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="width:258.5pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1)</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:95.3pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>6.1.</span></p></td><td style="width:67.15pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>am</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="width:258.5pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1)</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:95.3pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>7.1.</span></p></td><td style="width:67.15pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>am</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="width:258.5pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1)</span></p></td></tr><tr><td style="width:95.3pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>Appendix A title</span></p></td><td style="width:67.15pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>am</span></p></td><td colspan="2" style="width:258.5pt; border:0.75pt solid #000000; padding-right:5.03pt; padding-left:5.03pt; vertical-align:top"><p><span>Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1)</span></p></td></tr></tbody><tbody><tr style="height:0pt"><td style="width:106.1pt"></td><td style="width:77.95pt"></td><td style="width:7.1pt"></td><td style="width:262.2pt"></td></tr></tbody></table>

ad = added or inserted

am = amended

del = deleted or removed

rr = removed and replaced

 = clause renumbered. This takes the format of old no.  new no.

[1/] 1 for Germany, 2 for France, 3 for Italy, 4 for the Netherlands, 5 for Sweden, 6 for Belgium, 7 for Hungary, 8 for the Czech Republic, 9 for Spain, 10 for Yugoslavia, 11 for the United Kingdom, 12 for Austria, 13 for Luxembourg, 14 for Switzerland, 15 (vacant), 16 for Norway, 17 for Finland, 18 for Denmark, 19 for Romania, 20 for Poland, 21 for Portugal and 22 for the Russian Federation, 23 for Greece, 24 (vacant), 25 for Croatia, 26 for Slovenia, 27 for Slovakia, 28 for Belarus, 29 for Estonia, 30 (vacant), 31 for Bosnia and Herzegovina, 32-36 (vacant) and 37 for Turkey. Subsequent numbers will be assigned to other countries in the chronological order in which they ratify or accede to the Agreement concerning the Adoption of Uniform Conditions of Approval and Reciprocal Recognition of Approval for Motor Vehicle Equipment and Parts, and the numbers thus assigned shall be communicated to the Contracting Parties to the Agreement by the Secretary-General of the United Nations

[1] Distinguishing number of the country which has granted/refused/withdrawn approval (see approval provisions in the Regulation).

[2/] Strike out what does not apply.

[2/]

1 Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing Lamps) 2005

Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing Lamps) 2005

Made under section 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018

Compilation: 1 (up to and including Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1))

Compilation Date: 20 January 2023

Compiled by: Vehicle Safety Policy and Partnerships, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts

CONTENTS

0.1 NAME OF STANDARD

SCOPE
APPLICABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION
DEFINITIONS
REQUIREMENTS
EXEMPTIONS AND ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURES
SUPPLEMENTARY GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
ALTERNATIVE STANDARDS
NOTES

COMPILATION NOTES

0.1 NAME OF STANDARD

0.1.1 This Standard is the Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing Lamps) 2005.

0.1.2 This Standard may also be cited as Australian Design Rule 1/00 — Reversing Lamps.

SCOPE

APPLICABILITY AND IMPLEMENTATION

2.1. The circumstances under which reversing lamps are mandatory, optional, or prohibited are set out in either ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/….

DEFINITIONS

3.1. Refer to paragraph 1 of Appendix A.

REQUIREMENTS

4.1. Reversing lamps fitted to vehicles in accordance with ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/… and required to comply with ADR 1/00 must comply with either:

a) The technical requirements of Appendix A as varied by part 5. Exemptions and Alternative Procedures and part 6. Supplementary General Requirements; or

b) One of the alternative standards listed in part 7. Alternative Standards.

ADR 1/00 revolves around a small set of technical and procedural concepts drawn from UN Regulation No. 23 and selectively modified for Australian application. The core concepts are:

Two compliance routes: compliance may be achieved by (a) meeting the technical requirements of Appendix A as varied by parts 5 and 6 of the ADR, or (b) complying with any of the versions of UN Regulation No. 23 listed as an alternative standard (s 4.1; s 7.1). This gives manufacturers a choice between the ADR-modified UN text and other UN Reg 23 versions.
Scope and applicability: the ADR does not itself determine which vehicles must have reversing lamps. Instead, applicability , whether reversing lamps are mandatory, optional or prohibited , is controlled by ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/… (s 2.1). Users therefore must consult those ADRs for vehicle-class specific obligations.
Selective adoption of UN Reg 23: Appendix A reproduces UN Reg 23 substantive technical rules, including definitions of "reversing lamp" (Regulation 1.1), photometric intensity minima and maxima (Regulation 6), colour of emitted light (Regulation 8 and Annex 4), and detailed photometric measuring points and test procedures (Annex 3). Those technical requirements (for example, intensity on axis not less than 80 candelas, maxima 300 cd in or above the horizontal plane and 600 cd below it) remain controlling where Appendix A is followed (Appendix A, Reg 6.2-6.3).
Administrative carve-outs: the ADR explicitly excludes certain administrative and approval provisions of UN Reg 23 from application in Australia (part 5.1). Those exclusions remove, for example, the UN text’s application for approval, marking and approval-number processes, some conformity and penalty procedures, and the UN communication forms and marking examples (part 5.1 and subparagraphs 5.1.1-5.1.2). The ADR therefore applies the technical core of UN Reg 23 while leaving Australian authorities to administer approvals and enforcement by other means.
Modified conformity and sampling regime: while the ADR excludes portions of Section 9 and Annexes 1 and 2 of UN Reg 23, it retains most of the photometric conformity procedures and expressly provides in s 6.1 that Annexes 5 and 6 of Appendix A offer alternative limits and tolerances for photometric and colourimetric requirements, and that lamps within those tolerances when sampled in accordance with Annex 6 will be considered compliant.
Test voltages and source-failure rules: the ADR imports UN test procedures, including prescribed test voltages for lamps with non‑replaceable light sources (6.75 V, 13.5 V or 28.0 V) and the rule that lamps with more than one light source must meet minima when any one source has failed and must not exceed maxima when all are illuminated (Appendix A, Reg 7.1.1; Reg 6.5).
Colour coordinates: ADR 1/00 adopts the UN colourimetric coordinates for "white" light (Annex 4), which are precise and expressed as trichromatic limits. Annex 4 prescribes numerical inequalities that define acceptable chromaticity.

These concepts form a practical compliance template: determine vehicle applicability via the listed ADRs, then apply Appendix A’s photometric and test procedures except where the ADR explicitly removes specific approval, marking or notification mechanics, and use Annexes 5 and 6 where the ADR allows alternative tolerances.

The ADR affects a narrow but distinct set of actors across the vehicle supply chain, inspection regime and enforcement agencies. The principal parties and the practical consequences for each follow from the instrument’s text.

Manufacturers of lamps and vehicle manufacturers (holders of trade names or marks): Appendix A (Reg 2.1-2.3) contemplates applications for type approval by the holder of the trade name or their accredited representative and anticipates the submission of samples and drawings. Even though part 5.1 removes specific UN approval procedures and markings from applicability in Australia, the ADR’s technical requirements (Appendix A Regs 5-8 and Annexes 3-6) still bind lamp design, production and testing. Manufacturers are responsible for ensuring photometric outputs meet the minima and maxima and that colourimetric coordinates satisfy Annex 4 limits. They must also apply the conformity-of-production procedures and sampling tests in Annex 5 and Annex 6, subject to the ADR’s modifications to those provisions (s 5.1; s 6.1).
Importers and suppliers of vehicles and lamps: importers must ensure that any reversing lamps fitted to vehicles comply with the ADR route chosen. Because the ADR refers to ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/… to determine when reversing lamps are mandatory (s 2.1), importers of specific vehicle types must check those ADRs to confirm whether the lamp must be present and whether it must comply with ADR 1/00. Where a lamp is supplied to meet ADR 1/00, importers must secure appropriate technical evidence from manufacturers showing compliance with photometric tests and sampling results.
Testing laboratories and technical services: Appendix A sets detailed measurement procedures (Annex 3), test voltages (Reg 7.1.1), masking and measurement geometry requirements, and acceptable tolerances (Annex 5). Testing laboratories performing compliance verification must therefore operate equipment meeting the specified requirements, calibrate to the reference methods and optionally provide specialised power supplies for non-standard sources where requested by the test laboratory (Reg 7.1.1).
Vehicle regulators and type-approval authorities: the ADR is made under s 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (compilation notes). Although the ADR excludes UN administrative approval, marking and communication forms (part 5.1 excludes Sections 2-4 and Annexes 1 and 2 of Appendix A), Australian regulatory authorities retain the role of determining compliance, granting approvals, and implementing enforcement under domestic law. The ADR therefore affects how regulators exercise those functions, because the UN-style approval/marking regime is not applied as written; regulators must operate within the ADR framework and the Road Vehicle Standards Act.
Repairers and aftermarket lamp suppliers: the photometric, colourimetric and marking rules affect replacement lamp design and supply. Where lamps fitted or sold in the aftermarket are required to meet ADR 1/00 (as determined by ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/…), repairers and suppliers must use lamps that meet the photometric minima and maxima, and if lamp design includes non‑replaceable sources or multi‑source lamps, they must account for tests conducted at prescribed voltages and the single-source-failure rule (Appendix A Regs 6.5; 7.1.1).
Certification bodies and auditors: manufacturers’ conformity procedures in Annex 5 and sampling in Annex 6 set out minimum expectations for statistical sampling, acceptance criteria and repeat sampling. Certification bodies auditing quality systems will need to verify that manufacturers maintain records, conduct the photometric and colourimetric checks, and apply the statistical criteria agreed with the competent authority for acceptability (Annex 5, paras 2.5 and 1.2.3).

Notably absent from the ADR are the UN Reg 23 provisions that assign responsibilities for communicating approvals among Contracting Parties and the labelling regime for approval marks (part 5.1 excludes Sections 3-4 and Annexes 1-2). That deletion affects any party that would have expected to rely on E‑marks or UN approval numbers as automatic evidence of compliance; in Australia, those marks do not have effect under this ADR unless a domestic approval process recognises them. Parties that rely on UN approval markings should carefully confirm whether and how Australian authorities accept such evidence.

The ADR imposes technical duties and preserves certain procedural rights, largely through its incorporation and modification of UN Regulation No. 23. The operative duties and rights are as follows, grounded in the ADR text and Appendix A.

Duties

Meet photometric minima and maxima: each lamp must meet intensity minima and must not exceed specified maxima. For example, intensity on the axis of reference must be at least 80 candelas (Appendix A Reg 6.2). Intensity in or above the horizontal plane must not exceed 300 candelas, and below the horizontal plane must not exceed 600 candelas (Reg 6.3). Photometric minima for other directions are set out in Annex 3 (Reg 6.4; Annex 3).
Ensure colour of emitted light is white: lamps must emit white light, with the chromaticity coordinates set out in Annex 4 (Appendix A Reg 8; Annex 4). Tests for white light are prescribed using a source at colour temperature 2854 K or with the lamp’s non‑replaceable sources in place, as appropriate (Annex 4).
Comply with test procedures and voltages: measurements must use standard filament lamps adjusted to normal luminous flux or the prescribed test voltages for non‑replaceable light sources (6.75 V, 13.5 V or 28.0 V) (Appendix A Reg 7.1 and 7.1.1). Manufacturers must provide special power supplies to test laboratories if required (Reg 7.1.1).
Conformity of production and sampling: manufacturers must apply conformity-of-production procedures and sampling consistent with Annex 5 and Annex 6, subject to the ADR’s modifications (Appendix A Reg 9 and Annexes 5-6; ADR part 5.1 and 5.1.1).
Special rule for multi‑source lamps: if a single lamp contains more than one light source, it must comply with the minimum intensity when any one light source has failed, and must not exceed maxima when all light sources are illuminated (Appendix A Reg 6.5).
Avoid stray reflections and ensure measurement geometry: photometric measurements must avoid stray reflections by masking and must meet the inverse-square law and receiver angle rules specified in Annex 3 (Annex 3, paras 1.2.1-1.2.3).

Rights and procedural features

Choice of compliance route: manufacturers have the right to choose between complying with the ADR‑modified Appendix A requirements or using an alternative UN Reg 23 version listed in part 7 (s 4.1; s 7.1). This preserves flexibility to rely on established UN approvals where appropriate.
Use of Annexes 5 and 6 tolerances: s 6.1 gives manufacturers a procedural right to be treated as compliant where lamps lie within tolerances set out in Annex 5 and are sampled in accordance with Annex 6, even if they depart from the stricter limits in sections 5 and 6 of Appendix A.
Repeat sampling and remediation procedures: Annex 6 prescribes a staged sampling protocol (first sampling A and B, potential repeat sampling C and D) with thresholds that govern whether conformity is contested, further alignment is required, or approval is withdrawn under the UN text. Although some administrative aspects of UN Reg 23 are excluded by part 5.1, the sampling flowcharts and thresholds remain informative for quality control and inspection (Annex 6).
Manufacturer-led testing with authority acceptance: Annex 5 contemplates manufacturers carrying out their own conformity tests using equivalent methods if authorised by the competent authority, subject to calibration and correlation with reference measurements (Annex 5, paras 2.2.2-2.2.4). In practice this permits manufacturers to operate internal test regimes that the authority may accept if demonstrably equivalent.

Constraints and gaps

Administrative approval and marking removed: the ADR excludes Sections 2-4 (application for approval, markings, approval) and Annexes 1-2 (communication forms and marking examples) of UN Reg 23 (part 5.1). That removal changes the legal effect of UN approval marks within Australia. Manufacturers cannot rely on UN approval marking procedures as automatically determinative under this ADR; they must engage with Australian administrative processes instead.
Certain UN conformity verification paragraphs excluded: the ADR removes the opening paragraph of Section 9 and paragraph 9.4, and specific paragraphs in Annex 6 (5.1.1-5.1.2). Those deletions alter who may perform and how often authority verifications occur under the UN text. Practically, this transfers or alters administrative verification responsibilities to domestic regulators under the Road Vehicle Standards Act and related ADRs.

These duties and rights create a compliance framework where technical conformity is central, sampling and manufacturer testing play a major role, and administrative approval and marking regimes from the UN text do not apply in the same form in Australia. Parties should map their obligations to the ADR‑modified Appendix A and to the other ADRs that determine whether reversing lamps are required for particular vehicles.

The ADR’s text concentrates on technical requirements and deliberately excises much of the UN Reg 23 administrative enforcement structure, producing a split picture for penalties and enforcement. The instrument itself contains limited express enforcement mechanisms; instead it leaves enforcement primarily to domestic administrative frameworks and the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 under which the ADR is made (compilation notes). The relevant enforcement-related material and practical consequences are:

Removal of UN Reg 23 approval/penalty provisions: part 5.1 expressly declares certain provisions of Appendix A (UN Reg 23) not applicable in Australia, including Section 10 (Penalties for non-conformity of production), Section 11 (Production definitely discontinued) and Section 12 (technical services and administrative departments), and Annexes 1 and 2 (communication and approval‑mark examples). By excluding Section 10, the ADR removes the UN Reg 23 text that would permit withdrawal of a UN approval under the UN process (part 5.1). Consequently, the instrument does not itself enact the UN withdrawal/notification penalties for production non‑conformity.
Residual UN enforcement content that remains but is constrained: although Section 10 of Appendix A is excluded, other parts of the conformity regime remain, such as Annexes 5 and 6 sampling procedures and the substantive photometric requirements (Appendix A Regs 5-8; Annexes 3-6). These retained provisions establish technical thresholds which australasian enforcement action will use as the benchmark in inspections and audits, even where the ADR removes UN administrative penalties.
Administrative enforcement under Australian law: the ADR is determined under s 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (compilation notes). That Act and other ADRs referenced in s 2.1 (ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/…) provide the domestic legal mechanisms for enforcement, including recall, sanctions, registration denials and other regulatory measures, although those measures are not set out in ADR 1/00. Practically, compliance and enforcement rely on the domestic regime rather than the UN processes that are excluded.
Verification and inspection frequency: Appendix A, Section 9.4 (which provided that the authority that granted type approval may verify conformity control methods at a normal frequency of once every two years) is specifically excluded by s 5.1.1. That deletion means that the UN-prescribed verification frequency does not apply in Australia, and the ADR does not replace it with a different frequency. The practical upshot is that inspection frequency and authority verification rights must be exercised under Australian administrative law and policy rather than the UN text.
Withdrawal of approvals under UN rules not operative domestically: because application, marking and approval procedures (Sections 2-4 and Annexes 1-2) are declared not applicable, the ADR severs the direct operation of UN approval‑withdrawal notifications across Contracting Parties (Appendix A Reg 4.2-4.3, 10.1-10.2). A manufacturer cannot assume that a UN approval status automatically imports a domestic right to supply or that a UN withdrawal produces automatic domestic sanctions. Australian regulators will employ domestic administrative tools.
Practical enforcement instruments left unspecified in the ADR: the ADR does not contain explicit monetary penalties, defective goods recall mechanisms, or registration denial processes in its text. Those enforcement instruments will be found in the Road Vehicle Standards Act, other ADRs and administrative procedures. The ADR requires technical compliance but leaves the design and application of enforcement measures to other legal instruments and the agencies that administer them.

Implementation risk and compliance burden

Uncertainty where the UN administrative process was relied upon: parties that previously relied on UN approval marks and inter‑governmental notifications should note that ADR 1/00 removes those mechanisms. That creates implementation risk for manufacturers who must now secure domestic acceptance of their test evidence or domestic approvals under Australian procedures.
Evidence burden in inspections: because the ADR keeps Annex 5 and Annex 6 procedures for manufacturer testing and sampling but removes UN approval and marking, enforcement will emphasise documentary and test-evidence review. Manufacturers should maintain photometric, colourimetric and sampling records and ensure test labs can demonstrate equivalence to the ADR reference methods (Annex 5, paras 2.2.2-2.2.4).

In short, ADR 1/00 sets precise technical standards and sampling tests, but it delegates enforcement mechanics to domestic law and removes several of the UN Reg 23 administrative sanctions and notification processes. Parties should therefore frame enforcement expectations around Australian regulatory instruments rather than UN approval marks when planning compliance and regulatory responses.

ADR 1/00 is not a standalone document; it is drafted to sit within the Australian ADR framework and to interact with both international UN standards and domestic statutes. Important cross-references and interaction points in the instrument are as follows.

Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018: the ADR is made under s 12 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (compilation notes). That Act is the domestic legal authority for vehicle standards. ADR 1/00 therefore operates as a technical standard determined under that statutory power. Administrative enforcement, approval processes and sanctions for non‑compliance will generally flow from the Road Vehicle Standards Act and associated regulations and administrative instruments rather than from ADR 1/00 itself.
Other ADRs determining applicability: s 2.1 expressly locates the question of when reversing lamps are mandatory, optional or prohibited in ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/…. This means ADR 1/00 provides the technical requirements for reversing lamps only where those other ADRs require or permit such lamps. Practically, compliance for a given vehicle requires cross-referencing ADR 13/00, ADR 19/00 or ADR 67/00 to determine whether ADR 1/00 applies to that vehicle class.
Substitution of references to UN Regulations with ADR references: the ADR contains notes that direct reading adjustments when Appendix A references other UN Regulations. Note 8.1 says: "In place of Regulation No. 48 where referenced in Appendix A, read ADR 13/00" and note 8.2 says: "In place of Regulation No.37 where referenced read ADR 51/00." That means any dependency in UN Reg 23 on UN Regulation No. 48 or No. 37 is to be read as a reference to Australian ADRs instead (notes 8.1-8.2). Therefore the ADR is mapped into the Australian ADR system rather than leaving cross-references to foreign regulatory numbering.
Interaction with UN Reg 23 as an alternative standard: part 7.1 explicitly lists "any of the versions United Nations Regulation No. 23" as alternative technical standards. Where a manufacturer relies on a particular version of UN Reg 23 that is listed, the domestic acceptance of that version is permitted by ADR 1/00. However, because ADR 1/00 excludes UN administrative approval and marking procedures (part 5.1), reliance on a UN approval still requires domestic evidentiary acceptance under Australian administration.
Administrative approvals and marking: the ADR excludes Sections 2-4 and Annexes 1-2 of UN Reg 23, which set out UN-style type approval, marking and communication procedures. This deletion creates an interaction effect: a lamp may be UN Reg 23 compliant technically, but the typical UN marking regime (E-mark, approval numbers) does not have the same operative force under ADR 1/00 (part 5.1). Domestic authority acceptance of UN approvals and E‑marks will depend on Australian administrative rules and policy.
Conformity-of-production and inspection regimes: Annexes 5 and 6 of UN Reg 23 are incorporated as alternative photometric/sampling limits (s 6.1). However, the ADR excludes specific paragraphs (5.1.1 excludes the opening paragraph of Section 9 and paragraph 9.4, 5.1.2 excludes paragraphs 2.3 and 3.3 in Annex 6). Those deletions modify how the UN-specified sampling and verification interact with Australian inspection practice. Inspectors and manufacturers must interpret Annex 5 and 6 procedures in the context of those deletions and in line with domestic inspection powers.
Documentation and technical services lists: Appendix A, Section 12 and the requirement to communicate names and addresses of technical services to the UN Secretariat are excluded (part 5.1). That means the ADR does not impose the UN obligation to notify the UN Secretariat of testing labs and administrative departments; domestic lists and procedures will govern technical service recognition.

Overall, the ADR grafts UN technical content into the Australian regulatory framework but divorces UN administrative approval and notification mechanics from domestic application. Parties must therefore work across three legal planes: (1) the technical specifications in ADR 1/00 and Appendix A, (2) the vehicle applicability rules in ADRs 13/…, 19/… or 67/…, and (3) the administrative powers and enforcement machinery of the Road Vehicle Standards Act and related domestic instruments.

The compilation notes and the included Table of Instruments and Table of Amendments record the ADR’s formal history and the specific clauses that have been amended. The key items to record are:

Original instrument: Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 - Reversing lamp) 2005, registered 21 November 2005 and commenced 22 November 2005 (Table of Instruments). That instrument established ADR 1/00.
Most recent amendment recorded in the compilation: Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule) Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1), registered 19 January 2023 and commenced 20 January 2023 (Table of Instruments; compilation date 20 January 2023). The compilation indicates the ADR has been updated to reflect this amendment.
Clauses amended by the 2022 instrument: The Table of Amendments lists several clause changes attributed to the Lighting Standards Amendment Instrument 2022 (No.1). Specifically, the instrument amends clause 4.1, clause 5.1, clause 6.1, clause 7.1 and the Appendix A title (Table of Amendments). Those amendments are recorded as "am" in the table, and the 2022 instrument is listed as the amending instrument for each. The compilation therefore shows that the substantive changes to the ADR in 2022 included: changing how compliance is expressed at s 4.1 (i.e. the two-route approach to compliance), adjustment of the exemptions/alternative procedures at s 5.1, clarifying supplementary general requirements at s 6.1, and confirming alternative standards at s 7.1.
Deletions linked to the Legislation Act 2003: the Table of Amendments indicates deletions of clauses 0.2 and 0.3 as a consequence of the Legislation Act 2003 (section 48D and section 48C respectively). Those deletions are administrative housekeeping matters recorded in the compilation.
Compilation record and explanatory materials: the ADR is presented as a compilation up to and including the 2022 amendment (compilation date 20 January 2023). The front matter records that the compilation has been prepared by Vehicle Safety Policy and Partnerships, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

What the amendment history records in practical terms

The 2022 amendment materially changed how ADR 1/00 refers to Appendix A and to alternative standards, and it adjusted the exemptions and sampling/photometric tolerance approach. Practitioners must therefore check the 2022 instrument when assessing historic compliance claims or when assessing whether pre-2023 approvals remain valid under the current text.
The Table of Amendments does not itself explain policy rationale, but it signals that s 4.1 (the compliance routes) and s 5.1 (the carve-outs from UN Reg 23), among others, were the subject of amendment. Because those paragraphs determine whether UN approval processes or alternative UN versions are acceptable, the 2022 changes materially affect how manufacturers demonstrate compliance.
The compilation notes and table do not record any change to the technical minima (for example the 80 cd axis minimum or the 300/600 cd maxima), but they do indicate procedural and structural changes to how the UN text is applied.

Practitioners should consult the two instruments listed in the Table of Instruments for authoritative text and the date of commencement, and check whether any further instruments or departmental policy guidance have been issued after the compilation date, since the compilation covers up to 20 January 2023 only.

The ADR text and the compilation notes do not include or refer to any case law, judicial determinations or administrative appeals concerning ADR 1/00 or its application. Appendix A reproduces UN Regulation No. 23 and its annexes, but it does not list judicial decisions. The compilation notes list the legislative instruments and amendments but contain no references to litigation.

Consequently, within the material provided, there is no litigation history to cite or summarise. That absence implies two practical points for researchers and practitioners:

There are no reported decisions included in this instrument’s text that interpret or apply ADR 1/00’s provisions. If parties require judicial or tribunal interpretations of the ADR’s application, they will need to search national case law databases, administrative tribunal records and regulator decisions after the compilation date, because the ADR itself does not provide those materials.
Where the ADR modifies or excludes UN administrative procedures (for example approval and marking), absence of litigation in this instrument means there is no domestic precedent supplied here that interprets how Australian regulators will implement the ADR’s carve-outs. This increases the importance of checking recent regulator guidance, administrative determinations and any judicial decisions after 20 January 2023 to understand enforcement practice.

If you require a targeted search of Australian administrative or judicial decisions that have referenced ADR 1/00, advise and I will identify relevant databases and perform a search limited to specified jurisdictions and time windows. The instrument itself contains no litigation record to analyse.

ADR 1/00’s deliberate mix of UN technical rules and Australian carve-outs creates several concrete operational pitfalls that can produce compliance surprises if not anticipated. The following are specific "gotchas" drawn directly from the instrument’s provisions.

UN approval marks do not automatically mean domestic acceptance. Part 5.1 excludes Sections 3 and 4 of Appendix A and Annexes 1 and 2, which set out UN approval marks and the application/approval process. Do not assume that an E‑mark or UN approval number on a lamp is a free pass to Australian compliance. Domestic administrative acceptance is a separate step (part 5.1).
The ADR removes UN penalty and notification mechanics. Section 10 of Appendix A (penalties for non-conformity of production) and Section 11 (production definitely discontinued) are excluded by part 5.1. That means the UN withdrawal/notification procedures are not the mechanism for domestic enforcement. If a manufacturer expects UN withdrawal to trigger automatic domestic consequences, that will not occur under ADR 1/00 itself.
Sampling thresholds have nuanced exceptions. Annex 6 sets out a multi-stage sampling process with defined thresholds and outcomes (first sampling A and B, possible repeat sampling C and D). The ADR excludes specific paragraphs in Annex 6 (5.1.2 excludes paragraphs 2.3 and 3.3 of Annex 6). Those deletions alter the sampling outcomes as written in the UN text. Practitioners must check which paragraphs remain operative and how domestic authorities interpret these deletions in audit contexts.
Photometric tolerances and the "within 20%" rule. Annex 5 provides that no measured photometric value may deviate unfavourably by more than 20% from the Regulation values for conformity to be uncontested (Annex 5, para 1.2.1 and Annex 6, para 1.2.1). However, the ADR’s s 6.1 states that lamps within the tolerances set out in Annex 5 sampled per Annex 6 will be considered compliant notwithstanding sections 5 and 6 limits. The interplay of minimum regulatory minima and Annex 5 tolerances means manufacturers must track both the nominal Regulation minima/maxima and the sampling tolerances.
Single-lamp multi-source failure rules can change test outcomes. If a lamp contains multiple light sources, the lamp must meet the minimum intensity when any one light source has failed and must not exceed the maxima when all are illuminated (Appendix A Reg 6.5). Tests therefore require simulation of single-source failure modes and checking maxima under full illumination. Designers and testers must plan test sequences accordingly.
Pair-only devices and restricted inward photometry. UN Reg 23 permits types intended to be installed exclusively in pairs to be verified only up to an inward angle of 30 degrees, with a photometric value of at least 25 cd required at that angle, provided the application documents this condition (Appendix A Reg 6.4 and Annex 1 form, para 12). In practice, if a lamp type is certified on the basis it will be installed only in pairs, that usage restriction must be documented and will limit where and how the lamp can be legally fitted.
Colour verification subtleties. Annex 4 defines the white-light chromaticity area using specific inequalities (for example, x > 0.310, x < 0.500, y < 0.150 + 0.640x, etc.). Colour testing for compliance requires careful spectroradiometric measurement and adherence to the specified illuminant/colour temperature or verification with the lamp’s non‑replaceable sources in place. Misinterpreting these trichromatic constraints can lead to failed colour tests.
Measurement geometry and equipment limits. Annex 3 requires that the receiving angle be between 10 minutes and 1 degree and that the measurement distance satisfy the inverse-square law. Moreover, an intensity requirement is satisfied if the required intensity is obtained in a direction deviating by not more than 0.25 degrees from the observation direction (Annex 3, paras 1.2.1-1.2.3). Laboratories that do not meet these measurement geometry and receiver angle constraints risk producing unreliable photometric results.
Deletion of frequency of verification. 5.1.1 excludes paragraph 9.4 (the paragraph which provided that the authority may verify conformity methods at a normal frequency of once every two years). That deletion removes the UN-specified inspection cadence. Do not assume biennial inspections will occur; instead, expect domestic administrative policy to set verification frequency, which may vary.
Record-keeping and statistical acceptability criteria. Annex 5 para 2.5 requires the manufacturer to carry out a statistical study and to define acceptability criteria such that with 95% confidence the minimum probability of passing a spot check is 0.95. This is a non-trivial statistical obligation; manufacturers must maintain production records, sampling statistics and demonstrate that their internal criteria meet the Annex 5 expectation.

Each of these gotchas follows directly from the ADR and Appendix A text. Practically, the combination of removed UN administrative mechanics and retained technical and sampling rules creates a compliance scenario where technical evidence and records assume heightened importance and where domestic administrative acceptance, rather than UN marking, determines market access.

Compliance requires a two-track practical plan: determine whether ADR 1/00 applies to the vehicle in question, then ensure the lamp meets the applicable technical, testing and production‑control requirements in the route chosen. The steps below convert the ADR text into an operational checklist with concrete actions tied to sections.

Determine applicability (s 2.1)

Check ADR 13/…, ADR 19/… and ADR 67/… to establish whether reversing lamps are mandatory, optional or prohibited for the specific vehicle class and variant. ADR 1/00 does not determine applicability itself.

Choose the compliance route (s 4.1; s 7.1)

Option A: Comply with Appendix A (UN Reg 23) as varied by parts 5 and 6 of ADR 1/00. This is the default technical route under the ADR.
Option B: Comply with one of the versions of UN Regulation No. 23 listed in part 7.1 (the ADR permits any of the versions enumerated there). Choose the version that aligns with your pre-existing approvals or test data.

Technical design checks (Appendix A Regs 5-8; Annex 3; Annex 4)

Confirm axis intensity: ensure the lamp produces not less than 80 cd on the axis of reference (Reg 6.2).
Confirm maxima: ensure it does not exceed 300 cd in or above the horizontal plane, and does not exceed 600 cd below the horizontal plane (Reg 6.3).
Check direction-specific minima: verify the measured intensities at the measuring points in Annex 3 meet the minima for relevant directions (Reg 6.4; Annex 3 table).
Colour conformity: measure chromaticity coordinates and ensure they satisfy Annex 4 inequalities. Use the prescribed method (2854 K standard source) or, for non-replaceable sources, test with the source present (Annex 4).
Multi-source lamps: for lamps with multiple light sources, verify minima with any one source failed, and maxima when all light sources are active (Reg 6.5).

Testing and laboratory requirements (Reg 7; Annex 3)

Use uncoloured standard filament lamps for measurements and apply test voltages of 6.75 V, 13.5 V or 28.0 V for non-replaceable light sources as required (Reg 7.1 and 7.1.1).
Ensure measuring equipment meets receiver angle requirements between 10' and 1 degree and that measurements comply with inverse-square law distances (Annex 3 paras 1.2.1-1.2.2).
Mask stray reflections as required by Annex 3 para 1.

Manufacturer conformity procedures (Annex 5)

Implement a conformity‑of‑production control system to perform photometric and colourimetric tests at appropriate intervals and to keep calibration records (Annex 5 paras 2.1-2.3).
Carry out statistical analysis of test results and define acceptance criteria, in agreement with the competent authority, that satisfy the 95% confidence / 0.95 spot-check pass probability benchmark (Annex 5 para 2.5).
If using internal equivalent methods, secure the competent authority’s agreement and maintain calibration correlation records (Annex 5 paras 2.2.2-2.2.4).

Sampling and remedial procedures (Annex 6)

Prepare to support sampling according to Annex 6: first sampling of four lamps (A and B), with defined acceptance, contest and withdrawal thresholds. Understand the flow from A/B to C/D repeat sampling if alignment is required (Annex 6).
Note ADR deletions to Annex 6 paragraphs 2.3 and 3.3 (s 5.1.2) and confirm with the competent authority how those deletions change sampling outcomes in practice.

Documentation and record-keeping

Keep technical drawings, photometric test reports, test equipment calibration records, filament lamp categories used in tests, and any limitation documentation for pair‑only device types (Reg 2.2.1; Reg 6.4; Annex 1 form para 12).
Since UN approval marking and communication forms are not applicable domestically (part 5.1 excludes Sections 3, 4 and Annexes 1-2), maintain complete internal documentation that demonstrates test equivalence for domestic audits.

Interface with domestic regulators

Because the ADR excludes UN administrative marking and approval procedures, engage early with the Australian competent authority to confirm acceptable evidence for domestic compliance and whether any domestic approval or certification is required under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 and related ADRs.

Aftermarket and repair compliance

For replacement lamps sold or fitted in Australia, ensure the product meets ADR 1/00 technical requirements if the vehicle class requires reversing lamps per ADR 13/…, 19/… or 67/…. Verify whether domestic authorities accept UN approval numbers or require domestic evidence.

Address colour, pair‑only and special conditions explicitly

If a lamp type is to be installed only in pairs, document that usage restriction in the application and communication documents as required under the UN form and be prepared to reproduce the same documentation for the Australian authority (Appendix A Reg 6.4; Annex 1 form para 12).
Plan tests for single-lamp multi‑source failure mode as part of routine conformity checks.

If you want, I can convert this checklist into a compliance-action pack for manufacturers or importers that includes a template test-report checklist keyed to Annex 3 measuring points, a sampling log template for Annex 6, and an evidence checklist suitable for submission to the Australian competent authority.

Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing Lamps) 2005

Plain English Summary

Deep Dive

What it does

Current sections

Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing Lamps) 2005

Source text: opening excerpt

1 Vehicle Standard (Australian Design Rule 1/00 – Reversing Lamps) 2005

Main concepts

Who it affects

Key duties and rights

Penalties and enforcement

How it interacts with other laws

Amendment history

Litigation history

Gotchas

How to comply