Assessing the environmental impacts of road barriers

Barrier Mart is an establishment that specialises in supplying top tier safety products. These come in the form of barriers. From bollards and handrails to a choice of crash barrier designs, we have many options. We manufacture everything in house too so that we are able to ensure quality. With our installations protecting you, things will be much safer.

Roadside barriers are integral for highway safety. Saying this, they also have substantial effects on wildlife, air quality and noise. You need to know how to assess these impacts and select the right type of barrier for your needs. To help, we are going to discuss some of the key factors you need to consider.

Noise

Firstly, there is noise reduction. Roadside barriers can aid in lowering traffic noise for locals and sensitive areas. At the same time, they can reflect and scatter sound waves in separate directions.

To examine the barrier's noise reduction potential, you must measure sound levels before and after installing it. You then need to compare them with the noise standards and criteria for the location. Also, you must consider the material, shape, and height of your crash barrier. Look at how they influence sound attenuation and prolongation.

Air quality

Next, roadside barriers have the potential to enhance air quality. They do this by blocking or diverting motor emissions away from receptors. Examples include schools, cyclists, or pedestrians.

To inspect the air quality improvement, you need to know the initial emission rates and concentration of pollutants. These include nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide. You then compare these with the area's air quality standards after installing a crash barrier. Additionally, you have to consider the meteorological conditions. These are things like humidity, temperature, and wind direction and speed. Look at how they influence the dispersion and deposition of pollutants.

Wildlife

Lastly, there is wildlife protection. The barriers can aid in protecting animals by lowering or stopping animal-vehicle collisions.

To assess a barrier's ability to protect wildlife, you must identify the habitats and species that the roads can affect. Monitor their behaviours, population trends, and movements. You also need to figure out how the design, placement, and maintenance affect wildlife permeability, connectivity, and resource access.

Browse today and choose your crash barrier products

At Barrier Mart, we supply all the products customers need to stay safe. In our collection of crash barriers, you can find open box beam and Armco designs. There are also various posts and fixings available to buy.

So, if you need a crash barrier, please let us know. Or, browse our website and order any parts you need; we'll deliver them quickly and can even offer installation.