Types of Traffic Barriers

Generally barriers fall into one or more of the following classifications:

Temporary Barriers (Portable):

• Greatly improved safety of workers in construction work zones
• Concrete barriers are the preferred temporary barrier
  • Provide a high level of containment
  • Relatively inexpensive over other barriers
• Other systems include steel shaped & water filled barriers.
  • Sometimes used on short term projects for speed & ease
    (The J-J Hooks connection has greatly improved the time and effort of installation over other concrete barrier connection systems.)
  • Don't provide the level of protection as concrete barriers
  • Cost more for long term projects as concrete barriers

Impact Deflection Barriers

• Deflects a vehicle & keeps it moving in its original line of travel
• Guard Rail is a good example of this type
• Can cause the operator to further lose control of his vehicle upon impact
• Vehicle may penetrate or be deflected over the barrier

Impact Absorbent Barriers

• Simple types range from post/cable, concrete barriers, to live plants
• More elaborate barriers include the "California Type"
  • Uses a standard chain-link fence & two steel cables
  • Moderately effective, but requires immediate repair

Impact Resistant Barriers

• Can greatly reduce or stop the forces of car or truck impact
• Typically used to protect a fixed structure from vehicular damage
• A common form of this barrier type are bollards.

Composite Barriers

• Delivers the benefits of: Impact Deflection, Impact Absorption, & Impact Resistance
• Concrete barrier profiles are the most popular
• Can be used as temporary or permanent barriers.

Concrete Barrier Walls are more cost effective than alternative types of barrier. Other barrier types must be replaced whenever an impact occurs (even low-energy impacts), because they may not perform properly in subsequent impacts. Considerable time and cost must be spent maintaining other barrier types, endangering motorists and workers during each repair.