What is BS EN 1794‑1- Road traffic noise reducing devices about?
BS EN 1794 is a European Standard that discusses road traffic noise reducing devices.
BS EN 1794‑1 is the first part of the multi-series that specifies criteria to categorize road traffic noise reducing devices according to basic mechanical performance under standard conditions of exposure, irrespective of the materials used. A range of conditions and optional requirements is provided in order to take into account the wide diversity of practice in Europe. Individual aspects of performance are covered separately in the annexes. Safety considerations in the event of damage to noise-reducing devices are covered in EN 1794‑2.
Note: BS EN 1794‑1 covers the current behaviour of the product. In order to assess its long-term performance, EN 14389‑2 should be used.
Note: The test procedure described in Annex A doesn't consider the fatigue effect.
Who is BS EN 1794‑1- Road traffic noise reducing devices for?
BS EN 1794‑1 on non-acoustic performance of noise-reduction devices is useful for:
- Road management authorities
- Manufacturers of road equipment and installations
- Manufacturers of noise-reduction devices
- Acoustic engineers
- Product designers
- Testing laboratories
Why should you use BS EN 1794‑1- Road traffic noise reducing devices?
While performing their primary function, road traffic noise reducing devices are exposed to a range of forces due to wind, dynamic air pressure caused by passing traffic, and the self-weight of its component parts. They can also be subjected to shocks caused by stones or other debris thrown up by vehicle tyres and, in some countries, the dynamic force of snow ejected by equipment used to clear roads in winter. The deflections of a noise reducing device under such loads during its design life should not reduce its effectiveness.
In this regard, best industry guidance on the classification of devices provided by BS EN 1794‑1 can help you determine if the noise-reduction device is fit for purpose in the specified environment.
BS EN 1794‑1 covers the mechanical performance requirements of device under conditions of exposure such that risks of detachment, and damage from stones are minimized. It also provides guidance on testing and calculations to ensure the devices are resistant to wind load and load from passing vehicles, determine the self-weight of acoustical elements and assess the dynamic load from snow clearance.
Thus, BS EN 1794‑1 can ensure your road traffic noise-reduction devices meet adequate performance levels while resisting the impact of external stresses, thus maintaining overall integrity and stability.
