In a first for the state, Main Roads Western Australia will trial a roller safety barrier on a Murdoch Drive Connection ramp connecting Roe Highway to Kwinana Freeway northbound.
The roller safety barrier provides impact protection in high speed and heavy vehicle crashes by absorbing shock and converting it into rotational energy.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the new safety feature is built from vertical steel poles supporting a series of plastic rollers over a distance of 60 metres.
“A barrier installed at a notorious crash location in Victoria has reduced the number of crash impacts dramatically – due to its heightened visual presence,” Ms. Saffioti said.
“This type of design clearly provides greater visibility for drivers as they approach and negotiate a curve in the road.”
Ms. Saffioti said in the event of a run-off crash, a reduction of direct impact is key to minimising driver and passenger fatalities.
“The safety barriers have been used successfully overseas, and Perth’s first has been refined and enhanced for local conditions by Geraldton-based firm Mid-West Traffic Controllers,” Ms. Saffioti said.
“Main Roads will monitor the performance of the roller barrier, and may install further barriers of this type on the state’s road network where appropriate.”
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