Since 2021, demand for Traffic Signs and Passive Post products has surged, reflecting a significant shift in infrastructure projects and heightened road safety measures across the UK. Over the past two and a half years, ASD’s sales of Traffic Signs have soared. Even more impressive is the rise in demand for passive solutions, particularly Frangible Safety Posts (FSPs). Sales have increased by over 125%, with the number of posts sold nearly doubling in that time frame. This remarkable growth highlights the pivotal role that passive safety systems play in modern road safety strategies.
With various reports emphasising the need for safer road infrastructures, the growing adoption of passive safety solutions aligns perfectly with national initiatives aimed at reducing roadside hazards and protecting drivers.
In this article, we speak to Michelle Parry, head of our Signs division, about how FSPs contribute to road safety. We also provide an overview of ASD’s extensive portfolio of traffic products available to our customers in the signage industry.
What road sign products are commonly used and how do they contribute to overall road safety?
Our flagship road safety product is FSPs. Made from a patented blend of materials and geometries, they are strong enough to withstand environmental stress, such as wind, yet they collapse safely upon vehicle impact. They are lightweight, too, making them easy to handle and install.
Can you explain the role of FSPs and why they are crucial for improving road safety?
Frangible safety posts play a critical role in road safety by collapsing upon impact to reduce the risk of injury and vehicle damage during collisions. In 2023, Strategic Road Network (SRN) traffic in the UK increased by 2.3% compared to the previous year. With rising traffic levels, such products are becoming even more essential to enhance safety on roads.
These posts are designed to meet passive safety standards (EN 12767) and thus minimise hazards in high-risk areas. Their design helps protect drivers and passengers in the event of an accident, making them essential for modern road infrastructure aimed at reducing fatal crashes.
Can you provide more details about the Traffic Signs and FSPs product range at ASD?
At ASD, we offer an extensive range of products suitable for the commercial and traffic post industry in the UK and Ireland. Our range of products includes sheets and substrates, fitting products including Stainless Steel clips, base plates, two-piece Aluminium clips, Tamtorque security fittings, nuts, bolts, washers, bollhoffed blanks, Dibond® and Cgate Traffic sheets, and other special products, along with an extensive range of signposts.
ASD is the exclusive partner of FSPs for the UK and Ireland. FSPs are innovatively designed to reduce the risk of fatal accidents caused by roadside furniture impacts. Thus, they support National Highways’ mission to improve roads network to make journeys safer, smoother and more reliable.
Our passive FSPs are available in the following sizes:
- 114 mm diameter
- 140 mm diameter
- 168 mm diameter
- 219 mm diameter
You can learn more about our full range of products here.
What can you tell us about the safety and technical performance of FSPs?
FSPs are independently tested to BS EN 12767. From our current range, the 140 mm FSP has the highest safety rating – NE:3 in 100 kph crash tests and NE:2 in 70 kph crash tests.
Additionally, our FSPs have been independently tested and verified to meet the sign and wind load carrying requirements of BS EN 12899-1 and BS EN 1991-1-4.
Does ASD provide complementary value-added services for the signs products?
Yes, we also provide a wide range of value-added services to our customers from the signage industry. These include guillotining, CNC routing, tube laser cutting, bollhoffing, powder coating, cutting to length, and galvanising. These services allow us to customise our products based on specific requirements and project needs.
How can ASD assist with procuring Traffic Signs and FSPs that enhance road safety?
Our team of in-house experts at ASD is ready to assist clients in the signage industry with professional advice, tailored recommendations, and samples as needed. With extensive experience ranging from smaller projects to large national infrastructure developments, our team understands the unique challenges of both scales. This allows us to provide innovative and practical solutions to meet any project’s needs.
We invite you to explore our full range of products here and get in touch with our team for further information: asd.sheffield@asd.ltd