Safer roadside barriers in SA

In an Australian first, a new roadside barrier protection system designed to minimise a rider's injuries when he or she collides with traditional Armco or W-bend fencing has been installed at an accident blackspot in South Australia.

A 2km section of Gorge Road, a notorious stretch of winding bitumen in the Adelaide Hills, now features roadside barriers fitted with the BASYC Protection System, which sees a flexible mesh absorb energy in an impact, and covers exposed posts and gaps. Made from polyester and polyethylene, the mesh is coated with Teflon and paraffin to prevent the high temperatures generated by friction and to help a fallen rider to slide along it, minimising harm. The material is said to be fire-proof and UV-resistant - important considerations given the harsh Australian climate.

The BASYC guards are currently being used in several Spanish cities, and Spanish experts have been working with South Australia's Department for Transport, Energy and Infrastructure on the Gorge Road installation. The road was identified as an accident blackspot after six crashes (five involving motorcyclists) occurred there between 2004 and 2008, resulting in three fatalities and two serious injuries.

The BASYC system's maker says it's relatively easy to fit and requires minimal maintenance.
According to the Motorcycle Riders Association of South Australia, it's cost around $140,000 to install the BASYC system on the 2km section of Gorge Road, and the South Australian Government will be targeting additional areas in the near future. No doubt authorities in other States and Territories will be monitoring the performance of the BASYC system closely.