transparent noise barriers

CE marking for transparent noise barriers: Requirements & Responsibility

Noise barriers along roads must be CE marked according to the 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 essential 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 of quality or compliance with specific customer requirements.

Do noise barriers need to be CE marked?

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

Is it allowed to install noise barriers without a CE marking?

No, the installation of noise barriers that are not CE marked is not permitted.

Are there exceptions to the CE marking requirement?

Yes, noise barriers that are constructed on-site from loose wood do not require a 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 standard EN 14388, which includes 14 different standards. These standards encompass various testing procedures and classes necessary for correct CE marking.

What requirements should be placed on a noise barrier?

The standard EN 14388 defines "Acoustic Elements" for noise reduction and "Structural Elements" for load-bearing capacity. The most important requirements include:

• Sound absorption (EN 1793-1): Test values are specified in categories A0-A4, with A4 being the highest. However, for most applications, class A2 is sufficient.
• 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 dampens more than 24 dB.

Mechanical requirements:

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

• Vertical and horizontal loads: The acoustic elements must be able to bear 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 ice blocks without breaking.

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

Conclusion:

This introduction to the CE marking standard for transparent noise barriers has been developed by Hammerglass AB to assist construction companies and authorities in complying with legal requirements. Hammerglass offers CE-marked noise barriers and actively works on the further development of relevant standards. If you have any questions regarding CE marking, we are happy to assist you.