Introduction: Evolving Safety Challenges in the Industry
In the construction, road maintenance, and infrastructure sectors, evolving safety challenges are at the forefront, particularly with the increasing prevalence of heavier electric vehicles (EVs) and advanced equipment. Traditional safety barriers may not be equipped to handle these new demands. Recent statistics from Safe Work Australia underscore the urgency of implementing robust safety measures. In 2022, 71% of worker fatalities occurred in the transport, postal, and warehousing sector (34%), agriculture, forestry, and fishing (22%), and construction (14%). These figures highlight the need for certified and crash-tested solutions to mitigate risks on-site. At Guard-R, we are committed to ensuring that our products exceed safety standards and provide reliable protection for a wide range of infrastructure and construction projects.
Key Insights from Our Crash Tests
Our crash tests replicate real-world conditions and are designed to ensure that our guardrail products meet or exceed industry standards. Here are the key findings from our recent tests:
Superior Impact Resistance
Kwik-Guard® products have been extensively tested to meet the AS/NZS 1170.1:2002 guidelines, demonstrating superior impact resistance in both light and medium traffic scenarios. Our guardrails have been independently tested to withstand various impact conditions and vehicle weights, including heavier EVs, which can be 20-50% heavier than traditional vehicles.
Performance metrics include energy absorption, substrate preservation upon impact, and deflection measurements. For example, the Type F system exhibited a maximum dynamic deflection of 101mm, while the Type G system was validated for 40 kN impacts. These results affirm that Kwik-Guard® products provide reliable safety solutions for contractors, builders, and government infrastructure projects.
Durability Under Extreme Conditions
Our tests have shown that Guard-R products retain their structural integrity even under extreme weather conditions, repeated impacts, and high-stress environments. This level of durability is crucial for contractors and project managers seeking long-lasting safety solutions, as it reduces the need for frequent repairs and replacements, minimising project costs and delays.
Compliance with Australian Safety Standards
Guard-R’s products fully comply with relevant Australian safety standards. We rigorously test against various vehicle types, weights, speeds, and impact angles to ensure that our guardrails meet the safety requirements mandated by Safe Work Australia and other regulatory bodies.
Performance Metrics and Compliance Standards
- Quantified Energy Absorption: Independently tested to absorb impact forces up to 40 kN, as demonstrated in the Type G test for the Kwik-Guard® Double Height Base Plated Top Mount system.
- Deflection Measurements: Maximum deflection values of 101mm in the Type F 30 kN test for the Kwik-Guard® Single Height Base Plated Top Mount system, indicating strong resistance in light traffic applications.
- Impact Severity Ratings: Designed to minimise impact severity and preserve the substrate upon impact, ensuring compliance with AS/NZS 1170.1:2002 standards.
In-Depth Crash Testing with APV Engineering: How We Validate Performance
We partnered with APV Engineering and Testing Services to conduct independent and rigorous crash tests. Our testing covers:
- Various vehicle classes and weights, including heavier EVs.
- A range of environmental conditions, including different temperatures and weather patterns.
- Multiple impact speeds and angles to simulate real-world incidents.
- Comprehensive data collection and analysis to accurately assess product performance.
Benefits of Crash Testing for Your Projects
Enhanced Safety for Your Workforce and Public Areas
By choosing Guard-R’s crash-tested products, you are investing in safety for construction sites, road projects, car parks, and sports fields. This commitment to safety helps contractors, installers, and government bodies reduce the risk of accidents and liability in public spaces and worksites.
Cost Reduction from Fewer Incidents
Accidents and fatalities cost projects and public works millions in expenses and delays. Guard-R’s crash-tested guardrails significantly lower the chances of such incidents, reducing insurance claims, legal costs, and compensation payouts.
Extended Product Lifespan for Long-Term Savings
Our tests indicate that Guard-R’s crash-tested products last longer, even in extreme conditions. This durability ensures that contractors and councils can rely on these solutions for longer periods, cutting down on the need for frequent replacements and capital expenditure.
