WRITTEN QUESTION P-0507/03

by Emilia Müller (PPE-DE) to the Commission

(18 February 2003)

Subject: Europe-wide introduction of an innovative mounting system for roadside reflector posts

A good system of reflector posts is vital for road safety, since it helps drivers get their bearings, particularly at night. For drivers who are not familiar with the route, reflector posts are a necessary aid which enables them to drive safely.

A new mounting system for reflector posts makes it possible to halve the height of traditional posts, with the reflector posts being fixed onto a support structure. The posts are thus raised from the ground. The mounting system itself is not placed directly at the side of the road as is necessary with traditional posts but further away from the road on the outer verge. The support arms on which the reflector posts are mounted reach in to the current position of the posts. This plastic or steel construction offers significant benefits in terms of safety particularly for motor cyclists and reduces the general risk of accident and injury. Unlike traditional posts, the new posts do not hinder mowing and cleaning work on the verge. The potential savings this will offer for local councils, regions and other bodies responsible for road maintenance in terms of work and cost are considerable.

The Commission:

- can it say whether any further harmonisation is planned in the near future in the area of road building and transport?

- are any efforts being made towards approximating the way in which roads are equipped in the EU Member States?

- can the reflector posts described above be introduced throughout Europe?

Answer given by Mrs de Palacio on behalf of the Commission

(14 March 2003)

The Commission confirms that in the coming months it will propose a directive laying down minimum requirements for the management of road infrastructure safety by the Member States. Member States will be required, in particular, to identify and eliminate black spots and carry out safety audits for roads in the trans-European network.

Reflector posts have already been installed along many roads in various countries. They have a positive effect on vehicle guidance and are particularly effective for night traffic and when there is limited visibility, by outlining the driving lane and highlighting the course of the road.

These posts fall within the scope of Directive 89/106/EEC(1), known as the Construction Products Directive. They require the publication by the European Committee for Standardisation (CEN) of a harmonised standard which will at European level lay down the conditions and technical requirements to be met in order to be granted CE marking. They can then benefit from free movement and free access to the various national markets.

However, any decision to install these posts along the roads is the responsibility of the Member States or infrastructure managers. There are currently no reasons for the general introduction of this equipment.

(1) Council Directive 89/106/EEC of 21 December 1988 on the approximation of laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to construction products OJ L 40, 11.2.1989.