Exploring The Different Types of Road Safety Barriers
As traffic continues to grow, the demand for road safety measures has surged. In 2024, over 10,000 tenders were published for road safety barriers, including crash barriers. The market, valued at USD 10.63 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 15.5 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.83% between 2024 and 2032. Road safety barriers make roads safer for pedestrians, motorcyclists, vehicle passengers, and stray animals. Depending on usage, there are different types of road safety barriers.
1. Metal Beam Crash Barrier
Metal Beam Crash barrier is a safety feature primarily constructed from galvanized steel to provide impact resistance and durability. The main functions of crash barriers include impact absorption, vehicle redirection, and visibility improvement. There are two types of metal beam crash barriers - W-beam crash barriers and Thrie-beam crash barriers. W Beam crash barriers are shaped as the letter W, providing these barriers structural strength and flexibility. They are used on rural roads and highways to prevent vehicles from veering off. Thrie beam crash barriers feature a wave-like design, ideal for expressways because they have higher impact resistance and improved safety features such as enhanced vehicle redirection and better energy absorption, and during high-speed collisions.
2. Wire-Rope Barriers
Wire rope barriers’ main role is to prevent vehicles from colliding with any fixed object or terrain. These road safety barriers reduce the impact by deflecting the vehicle off a tensioned rope after it experiences a collision. The deflection leads to gradual deceleration which reduces the risk of serious injuries compared to rigid barrier materials. Wire Rope barriers have led to about an 87% decrease in crashes as per reports and are effective in both median and side applications.
3. Concrete Barriers
Concrete barriers help in road traffic management and are primarily used to separate traffic lanes on roads and construction sites. Several types of barriers that come under concrete barriers include J-rail barriers, jersey barriers, and concrete step barriers. The material used in making these barriers is reinforced concrete which is resistant to harsh weather conditions. When vehicles collide kinetic energy is generated so that concrete barriers can structurally dissipate to absorb the energy. Apart from preventing cross-over accidents, they are also highly durable.
4. Water-Filled/Sand-Filled Barriers
Water-filled and sand-filled barriers are lightweight barriers and are primarily used in traffic management. They are constructed with plastic and are filled with water or sand to provide stability. They are ideal for construction sites and events. Water-filled and sand-filled barriers are mainly used in temporary set-ups because they are lightweight. The recyclable nature of the material makes these barriers eco-friendly thanks to minimal waste generation and environmental impact. Owing to their filled weight, they are resistant to displacement, making them suitable for permanent and semi-permanent installations.
5. Safety Cones
Safety cones, also known as traffic cones, are used to ensure safety during the construction process, managing traffic and crowd management. In terms of characteristics, they are made up of PVC and have reflective collars for maximum visibility in conditions with low light.
6. Flexible Barriers
Flexible barriers are made of ropes made of polymer or wire which are held between vertical supports known as posts. This design allows them to absorb impact and energy. They are utilized in industrial settings, construction sites, and roadways. Flexible barriers are modular and this feature makes them adaptable. The modularity of the barriers caters to different site needs and layouts.
7. A-Frame Barriers
A-frames are portable and versatile safety barriers. These types of road safety barriers are primarily used in directing traffic, pedestrian protection, and crowd control. They consist of two triangular pieces connected by horizontal tubes and planks. Their shape provides visibility and stability, making it easy for them to be assembled and disassembled. They are generally made up of high-density plastic that can withstand harsh weather conditions. A-Frame barriers are portable and are finished in bright colors that make them visible in low light and dark environments.
Contact Headsup B2B for Safer Roads
Road safety barriers play an important role in ensuring road safety for all from pedestrians and motorists to animals. Each type of barrier caters to a particular need - be it absorbing impact, managing traffic flow, or re-directing traffic. Headsup B2B is your one-stop solution for all road safety requirements—contact us today to help create safer roads for everyone.
FAQ
What are road safety barriers, and why are they important?
Road safety barriers are equipment manufactured to promote road safety. Their purpose is to make roads safer from vehicle crashes. They are designed to protect pedestrians, motorists, and animals from road crashes.
What types of road safety barriers are available?
There are a range of road safety barriers available. The choice of the barriers to be installed depends on usage including flexible, semi-rigid, rigid, portable, and temporary barriers.
How do road safety barriers help prevent accidents?
Road safety barriers help prevent accidents in different ways. They help protect from vehicle collision, impact absorption, separation from traffic, work zone safety, and enhanced visibility.
Where are road safety barriers commonly used?
Road safety barriers are commonly used for highway safety, work zones, bridge and tunnel protection, traffic management, pedestrian safety, impact absorption, and temporary applications like traffic diversion.
How do you choose the right road safety barrier?
The choice of road safety barriers is important to meet the purpose of the installation. The choice depends on different factors such as the type of road, the volume of traffic, expectations for crash severity, specific requirements for the site, and the needs of pedestrian safety.
