ShareLaws, regulations and standards
Americans got the ball rolling with their NCHRP Report 350: “Recommended Procedures for the Safety Performance Evaluation of Highway Features”. That was in 1993. In March 2000 Europe followed suit with the standards EN 12767.
These standards now form the basis for most of the requirements regarding roadside traffic installations – including traffic masts. A standard is a document containing common guidelines for demands made on a product (goods and services) or a work process.
Forgiving masts
In the “old days” a slip base was considered to be the only design that made masts forgiving, i.e., supports designed to absorb much of the energy in a collision. But a new class of masts evolved thanks to innovative thinking in the Nordic countries. It consists of products that are essentially “non-dangerous” to collide with. The focus here is on masts that are softer and lighter – often referred to as “third generation” masts.
From general standards to stringent regulations
The international standards have been integrated with national standards, regulations and guidelines in the Nordic countries and the UK. In many instances, the regulations prohibit the use of non-shock-absorbing steel masts or thick-walled composites and aluminium. Many countries are considering similar regulations.
Generations of masts
- 1st generation masts
Heavy steel constructions, fixed installations – no focus on safety
- 2nd generation masts
Slip base solutions
- 3rd generation masts
Forgiving (passive safety), safe and strong
Approved in conformity with NS-EN 12767
comply with the regulations in NS-EN 12899-1
All Lattix masts are 3rd generation.