Crash barrier research and application in the Netherlands. Paper presented at 52nd HRB Annual Meeting, 22-26 January 1973, Washington, D.C.

Research was carried out by the SWOV into the most suitable crash barriers for soft soil and for bridges. The research was based on the following requirements: (1) sufficient strength and height; (2) the ability to deflect sufficiently without discontinuities; (3) very gradual deflection and sufficient space between carriageway and barrier; (4) continuation of operation after impact; (5) quickly to repair after a collision; (6) containing as many standardised parts as possible. The research resulted in a series of structures in soft soil and on bridges which provide optimum protection under various conditions. These barriers comprise in principle a horizontal beam consisting of two W-shaped rails and spacers every 1.33 metres, provided if necessary with diagonal bars, and of posts with various structural characteristics