transparent noise barriers

CE marking for transparent noise barriers: requirements & responsibility

Noise barriers along roads must be CE marked in accordance with standard EN 14388, regardless of whether they are made of wood, aluminum, glass or plastic. The only exception is barriers constructed on site from loose wood. However, if the elements are produced in the factory, the CE marking is mandatory.

Who is responsible?

Even if the tender documents do not contain a clear requirement for CE marking, it remains an indispensable legal requirement. Contractors and suppliers must ensure that only CE-marked noise barriers are installed. Installation without CE marking is not permitted.

What does the CE marking mean?

The CE marking indicates that products have been tested or calculated according to specified conditions. However, it is not a guarantee for quality or for the fulfillment of the client's specific requirements.

Noise barriers must be CE marked?

Yes, all noise barriers manufactured in the factory must be CE marked.

Is it allowed to install noise barriers without CE marking?

No, the installation of non-CE-marked noise barriers is not permitted.

Are there exceptions to the CE marking requirement?

Yes, noise barriers built on site from loose wood do not require CE marking. However, all other prefabricated barriers must be CE marked.

Which standard specifies the requirements for CE marking?

The requirements are regulated by the EN 14388 standard, which includes 14 different standards. These standards contain various test methods and classes that are necessary for correct CE marking.

What requirements should be placed on a noise barrier?

The EN 14388 standard defines “acoustic elements” for noise attenuation and “structural elements” for load-bearing capacity. The most important requirements include:

• Sound absorption (EN 1793-1): Test values ​​are given in categories A0-A4, with A4 being the highest. However, class A2 is sufficient for most applications.
• Airborne sound insulation (EN 1793-2): Category B3 is the best and should be set as the minimum requirement for an effective noise barrier as it attenuates more than 24 dB.

Mechanical requirements:

The mechanical requirements affect both the acoustic and load-bearing elements of a noise barrier. These must be able to withstand certain loads such as wind, snow and mechanical stress without suffering structural damage.

• Vertical and horizontal loads: The acoustic elements must be able to support both vertical and horizontal loads without bending beyond the specified limits.
• Rockfall test (EN 1794-1): The barrier must be able to withstand rockfall or the impact of chunks of ice without breaking.

• Light transmission (EN 1794-2): For transparent noise barriers, a light transmission of at least 85% must be guaranteed.

Conclusion:

This introduction to the CE marking standard for transparent noise barriers was developed by Hammerglass AB to help construction companies and authorities comply with legal requirements. Hammerglass offers CE-marked noise barriers and is actively working on the further development of the relevant standards. If you have any questions about the CE marking, we will be happy to help you.