Introducing IWS Group’s PAS 13-Certified Impact Safety Barriers
IWS Group has impact-tested its Brandsafe® range of polymer safety barriers, adhering to the rigorous PAS 13 code of practice. This process, third-party accredited by TÜV Nord – an internationally recognised quality seal – measures the barriers’ impact resilience. It empowers customers to choose the most suitable systems for their needs. By complying with PAS 13, IWS Group positions itself among the elite companies upholding the industry’s highest safety benchmark.
In April 2023, the Rack Group, an IWS subsidiary based in Barnsley, conducted the barrier range tests. There, the design and manufacturing of the barriers occur. The team used a custom-built pendulum to strike the barriers at various points, assessing their resilience. They meticulously recorded the force each barrier withstood and the extent of its deflection using high-specification measuring equipment on-site.
Our Leaders’ Perspectives on Enhancing Impact Protection Standards
Commenting on what the testing means for customers, Susy Keating, MD at Brandsafe said, “This testing is an important step for customers looking to purchase impact protection barriers for their workplace. Knowing what impact forces a barrier can take, as well as ensuring that data is independently certified by a reputable third party, is a vital factor in choosing the right barrier.
For too long impact protection has been over-engineered, over-priced and overly complicated. It’s time to reset the bar on what impact protection ultimately comes down to, which is keeping people and products safe.”
Stuart Ovington, MD of Rack Group said, “TÜV Nord independently verifying that our testing abided by the PAS 13 guidelines serves as a testimonial to our teams here at IWS Group, as well as the quality of our polymer barrier range. Not every barrier manufacturer undertakes product testing to this level, so we are proud to be amongst the industry leaders.
Our barriers are shown to be high performing, long-lasting and can withstand greater impacts than similar, industry-leading products. In addition, we can create bespoke designs quickly to suit individual needs and, with short lead times, provide a cost-effective solution at the highest standard.”
Matt Mason, Group Design Manager at IWS Group added, “We undertook this activity to prove the capability of our barrier range and, with TÜV Nord witnessing, it confirms that our internal testing procedure adheres to the industry code of practice.
Testing is conducted on a purpose-built impact pendulum rig designed and commissioned entirely by IWS Group, which simulates real world impact energies of material handling vehicles travelling at different speeds and provides physical proof to the capability of our products. The pendulum strikes barriers at various pre-determined locations to measure the level of energy the barriers can withstand, how much deflection they display under impact and how much force is transferred to the ground fixings and concrete.
Testing also defines the distance behind barriers that is considered the ‘safe zone’ for the barrier to deflect in to, which is identified during installation of the barrier by visual floor markings. All testing was conducted with UKAS calibrated measuring equipment such as high-speed cameras, torque wrenches, load cells and industrial weigh scales to ensure confidence in every result witnessed.”
Elevating Safety Standards with Brandsafe® Barriers
As we conclude, it’s evident that IWS Group’s commitment to safety and innovation is redefining industry standards. The extensive testing of the Brandsafe® polymer safety barriers, endorsed by TÜV Nord’s certification, not only provides our customers with assurance of our product’s quality but also highlights our dedication to advancing safety technology.
Our goal is to offer solutions that are effective, simple, and accessible. With capabilities for bespoke designs and quick production, we cater to a variety of needs, ensuring each barrier we produce is not only a product but a commitment to safety and dependability.
The path to enhancing workplace safety is continuous, and at IWS Group, we are at the forefront. Through innovative testing methods and adherence to strict industry standards, we are not just meeting safety requirements but actively shaping them for a safer future.
Please feel free to request detailed technical data about the impact safety testing we have carried out on the Brandsafe® range and our approach to safety. Contact us at sales@brandsafeprotection.com for additional information.
Safety, simplified.
