Development of a precast slim temporary concrete safety barrier STCSB 50 for work zone applications

Abstract

Selecting proper restraint systems for road-work zone areas is essential in ensuring the safety of motorists and construction workers as well as preventing occurrence of severe accidents. Regulations surrounding these choices vary greatly with some countries leaving the discretion to the managers whereas others mandate the use of barriers meeting specific requirements based on how they will be used. However, some nations have very detailed specifications including requirements for barriers to meet specified performances with respect to their application areas. Identifying performance criteria and making the right choices will determine how well authorities and traffic managers are able to provide safer environments for their workers. This article summarizes performance requirements and development details of a precast slim temporary concrete safety barrier, slim temporary concrete safety barrier (STCSB 50), mainly utilized to guide the traffic flow and safely divide lanes on motorways. Having 50 cm in height with a width of only 24 cm at the base and 12 cm throughout its height makes STCSB 50 a very narrow and low-profile work zone barrier. The design was crash tested according to EN1317 requirements, and its performance clearly demonstrated its robustness as a state of the art safety barrier for work zone applications. Its implementation is therefore recommended to protect road users and construction site workers at work zone areas.