CE marking for transparent noise barriers: requirements & responsibility

Noise barriers along roads must be CE-marked in accordance with the EN 14388 standard, 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 specification 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 of compliance with specific requirements of the client.

Do noise barriers have to be CE-marked?

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

Is it permitted 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 that are erected on site from loose wood do not require CE marking. However, all other prefabricated barriers must be CE marked.

Which standard defines the requirements for CE marking?

The requirements are regulated by the EN 14388 standard, which comprises 14 different standards. These standards include various test procedures 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. For most applications, however, class A2 is sufficient.
  • 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 apply to 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 stresses 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): A light transmission of at least 85% must be guaranteed for transparent noise barriers.

Conclusion:

This introduction to the CE marking standard for transparent noise barriers has been 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 CE marking, please do not hesitate to contact us.

 

author avatar
David Payer