Citation

Powers RD. Transp. Res. Rec. 1984; 970: 1-3.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1984, Transportation Research Board, National Research Council, National Academy of Sciences USA, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

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PMID

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Abstract

In-service evaluation is the logical final stage of development of new highway safety appurtenances. It is intended to identify and correct unsuspected problems with a new device before its widespread adoption is recommended. Although most highway agencies do evaluate new appurtenances, until recently no guidelines have been available to ensure consistency and uniformity of these efforts. NCHRP Report 230, "Recommended Procedures for the Safety Performance Evaluation of Highway Appurtenances," provided such guidelines. By using these guidelines an in-service evaluation plan was developed and tested in conjunction with pilot installations of a self-restoring barrier guardrail at locations in Illinois, Virginia, New York, and Colorado. The evaluation procedures suggested in NCHRP Report 230 proved valid. However, the evaluation process can be significantly improved by soliciting support and involvement from potential users early in the research effort, by selecting appropriate installation sites, by obtaining a specific commitment from those persons monitoring the installation, and by ensuring an effective feedback cycle for further development of the appurtenance based on its actual performance.

Record URL:
http://onlinepubs.trb.org/Onlinepubs/trr/1984/970/970-001.pdf

Language: en

Keywords

HIGHWAY ENGINEERING; ACCIDENT PREVENTION; ROADS AND STREETS - Guard Rails