TORONTO, (Dec. 7, 2004) — Spectra Inc., a designer and manufacturer of brake stroke indicating systems and air brake diagnostic tools — announced recently the appointment of retired Canadian Brigadier General Ernest Beno to its newly created industry advisory board.

“The appointment of Brigadier General Ernie Beno to our advisory board further demonstrates our commitment to ensure that a broad cross-section of experts on matters of public safety and transportation industry needs is available to the company,” said Andrew Malion, chairman of Spectra Inc. “We are looking forward to benefiting from General Beno’s military experience and insights into the needs of the Canadian Forces for reliable and safe operating equipment.”

Brigadier General Beno served with the Canadian Forces for over 37 years in a number of capacities, including Director General Military Personnel, Commander of Base Petawawa and Brigade Commander of the Special Service Force. He is currently the Honorary Colonel to the Princess of Wales’ Own Regiment, Kingston.

“I am delighted to assist Spectra in enhancing transportation safety on North American highways,” Beno said. “Obviously Canadian Forces’ trucks in particular should be assured of safe brakes as they operate on our highways at home and abroad. Both Canadian Forces personnel and the public deserve nothing less.”

Spectra Products Inc. is the designer, manufacturer and distributor of the Brake Safe visual brake stroke indicating system and Brake Inspector, the company’s electronic in-cab air brake diagnostic system. Spectra says the products are gaining increasing recognition and acceptance as demands for enhanced brake safety increase among regulatory authorities and the motoring public.

During the recent Operation Air Brake roadside inspections conducted in Canada and the U.S., brake defects were found to be the leading cause of vehicles being put out of service, accounting for 69 per cent of major defects.