Corus Tubes' new bridge parapet systems have been approved by UKs Highways Agency as meeting the new EN1317 European Standard. Following analysis of extensive development crash testing at MIRA (Motor Industry Research Association) and computer modelling by the Corus Automotive Engineering Group in Coventry, UK's Highways Agency has passed the Corus Parapet Systems as meeting with the containment requirements of EN1317.

The Corus Tubes Parapet Systems are accepted in the Highways Agency's Interim Advice Note 44/02 Section 3.3 as a replacement for the now withdrawn list of approved systems contained in Annex F of BS 6779-1. The new systems have been approved for containment classes N1 (1500kg car at 80km/h) and N2 (1500kg car at 110km/h) with a working width class of W1 (the narrowest class at <0.6m).

The new systems replaced the existing design in June 2003 and Corus has now withdrawn support for the old versions (except HBP 100/3 Vertical Infill). The new design will only be available via licensed fabricators who will be supplied with the special Corus Celsius HBP RHS (Rectangular Hollow Section) from Corus Tubes' Special Projects in Corby. The parapet system design offers more adaptable post positioning and easier fabrication than the previous version as well as improved perfor-mance all round. Certain design features of the Corus Tubes Parapet Systems are protected by Patents Pending.

The Corus Bridge Parapet Systems come with a history of successful application stretching back nearly 50 years. In this latest improved version, to EN1317, they safely contain vehicles within the narrowest working width and are now simpler to fabricate and erect.

The new standard EN1317-5 was published in autumn 2003 and will provide a Europe-wide benchmark for road restraint systems including highway bridge parapets. This standard should allow for a more open market in the provision of parapets and improve road safety.

The well proven structural properties of hot finished RHS, which is fully quality assured, has enabled a product to be made to meet the stringent new performance requirements of EN 1317. The special steel grade material for parapets is branded as Celsius HBP. These are the only steel parapets accepted by UK's Highways Agency in the Normal Containment category.

The tubular steel design is fully hot dip galvanised to give low maintenance for in excess of 20 years in most situations. Corus Tubes' parapet systems complement other Corus highways tubular engineering products, which includes a range of lighting columns, safety fences and materials for sign gantries, footbridges, bridges and related structures.

Corus Tubes, PO Box 101, Weldon Road, Corby, Northants, NN17 5UA, UK Tel +44 (0)1536 402121 Fax +44 (0) 1536 404049 www.steelparapets.com