What are Chapter 8 Barriers?
Why are they called Chapter 8 Barriers?
Chapter 8 Barriers are plastic safety barriers that are compliant with Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual, and the New Roads & Street Works Act.
The main purpose of these plastic barrier is to ensure the safety of both road users and workers during roadwork activities, construction projects, and events.
What makes the barriers Chapter 8 Compliant?
In order to meet the requirements to be Chapter 8 compliant, they must meet a range of criteria and guidelines, outlined in the Traffic Signs Manual.
These include the following;
- Colour and Reflectivity: Usually highly visible and brightly coloured, also incorporating reflective materials.
- Height and Design: Should have a specified minimum height to effectively separate road users from work zones or hazards. The design should include features that make it difficult for objects to pass through.
- Stability and Weight: Typically designed to be stable, and have provisions for adding ballast.
- Connection Mechanisms: Plastic Barrier often have interlocking mechanisms or connectors that allow them to be linked together securely.
- Accessibility and Portability: Should be easily transported, set up and dismantled.
- Maintenance and Inspection: Barriers are required to be regularly inspected and maintained, to ensure that they remain compliant.
- Compliance with Relevant Standards: Products must meet specific industry standards.
So, What can Chapter 8 Barriers be used for?
Chapter 8 Barriers are a versatile product, and can be used for a variety of purposes including;
Worker Protection – Providing a physical barrier between road users and workers, protecting them during road construction and maintenance projects.
Pedestrian Protection – Forming a barrier between road construction and pedestrians and/or cyclists, therefore protecting them from any moving traffic.
Traffic Control – Helping to control traffic flow, by creating lanes, diverting traffic, therefore ensuring a smooth and safe flow of traffic through work zones.
Security – These barriers can help to secure event sites, as well as public areas, making sure that pedestrians are following the correct route or are protected from any works being carried out.
Enhanced Visibility – Designed to enhance work zones, construction sites, and events, as their highly visible appearance ensures that approaching motorists can spot potential hazards in advance.
Legal Compliance – Chapter 8 compliant barriers can be a legal requirement for those responsible for road work sites and event management. Therefore strict adherence to these guidelines is essential.
What types of Chapter 8 Barriers are available?
There are a range of Chapter 8 Barriers available, each are versatile and suitable for a range of applications.
Plastic Barriers – These are appropriate for use on high speed roads, events and other applications, due to their lightweight and durability. They also have reflective features to help with road safety.
Water Filled Barriers – Designed as a heavy-duty barrier solution, they can be filled with water to increase their weight and provide increased impact resistance. Ideal for creating perimeters around road works to protect workers from any accidents.
Heavy Base Barriers – Similar to the water-filled barriers, these have been created to provide increased stability.
Collapsible Pedestrian Barriers – These barriers can be quickly deployed, dismantled, and transported, making them perfect for ever-changing roadworks.
What are the benefits of Chapter 8 Barriers?
- Durable and Weather Resistant
- Highly Visible
- Enhance the Safety of Road Workers and Users
- Easy to Install and Remove
- Relatively Lightweight and Portable
- Relatively Affordable
Conclusion
Chapter 8 Barriers are a versatile and effective way to protect road workers, pedestrians, and cyclists from moving traffic. They are also relatively affordable and easy to install, making them a good option for a wide range of applications.
If you are looking for a safe and effective traffic management solution around your work site or event, our Chapter 8 Barriers, are a great option!
