International Noise Awareness Day

Today is International Noise Awareness Day, a day to contribute in making our society understand the importance of reducing noise for our health and the environment.

Noise is usually defined as «Inarticulate sound, generally unpleasant». Today we live with noise everywhere due to the noise pollution produced, among others, by vehicles. The noise pollution to which we are exposed in our day to day life can cause serious consequences such as hearing loss, sleep disorders or cardiovascular diseases. Cities are taking more and more measures against these annoying sound, however, there is much work ahead, and other facilities such as airports, sports stadiums or auditoriums also need solutions to isolate noise

To reduce noise in urban spaces, we have a wide range of products that will combine with each space according to its style. Acoustic screens are an efficient and aesthetic solution that can be used in any of the cases.

Metagreen acoustic screens

These screens are our most sustainable acoustic screens and not only they perform their job against noise, but they also contribute to sustainability thanks to their built-in vegetation and the use of recyclable materials in their manufacture. Vertical Garden Concept.

These are screens made up of an interior of rock wool as the main material to absorb external noise and an exterior of micro-perforated plastic mesh thanks to which vertical vegetation will grow.

These screens offer an ecological and natural appearance, perfect to be installed in urbanizations and private areas where they will give the appearance of a vertical garden. Its galvanized treatment offers a long durability of these screens that insulate and absorb noise magnificently.

Methacrylate acoustic screens

Acoustic methacrylate acoustic screens are ideal for not losing light and ensure a visual sensation of spaciousness. It is an insulating panel that consists of a polymethacrylate sheet in a structure made up of synthetic rubber gaskets.

The methacrylate panel configuration achieves maximum insulation. It integrates with the landscape thanks to its transparency and/or colors. These screens can be combined in the personalized model with other materials, achieving a product that completely adapts to the aesthetics of your city.

Metawood acoustic screens

Wood also offers a touch of nature like Metagreen screens, but they can also be combined between wood vertically and horizontally to achieve different aesthetic effects.

Metawood screens have rock wool to isolate sound as well as a black protective veil that protects the panels from erosion and moisture.

Wood acoustic screens provide excellent insulation and maximum absorption. Its wooden aesthetic integrates perfectly with the landscape and the treatments they require are respectful of the environment.

Concrete acoustic screens

It is made up of a double layer of reinforced concrete structure and sound-absorbing porous concrete. These concrete acoustic panels can be the color of the concrete or painted smooth or with decoration.

It has good acoustic absorption. Isolates sound excellently. It is a very durable structure with low environmental impact, recyclable and without waste.

Customized acoustic screens

We can also create personalized noise barriers by combining different panel models, being able to design acoustic screens completely to the client's taste and adapted to the needs of each space.

It must be taken into account that the product that really performs the absorbent function is the rock wool housed inside, so the exterior can be designed to fit aesthetically with the space without affecting its properties.

These solutions that we describe for urban areas are applicable to isolate traffic noise on highways, where the installation of steel or aluminum acoustic screens is more common.

Steel or aluminum acoustic screens

Both the steel and aluminum acoustic screens are made up of a noise-absorbing layer, an inner layer of rock wool that isolates this noise, and the reflective layer so that the remaining noise does not pass through, but bounces back. Finally, to guarantee this acoustic performance, these panels are closed with polypropylene side covers.

They are a fantastic option for their insulation and absorption capabilities. In addition, they integrate with the environment thanks to their various designs and available combinations. Being a modular structure they are light and easy to install. They are also resistant to wind loads and rail traffic overpressure, a performance accredited in laboratory tests.

Acoustic screens can be temporary or fixed and the installation varies according to type. Among all the solutions that we offer in Metalesa, a previous acoustic study will always be assessed to guarantee the best solution against noise that adapts to the needs of the space. You can compare our screens in the product comparator or contact us, we will be happy to help you.

MP Acoustic Panel Range

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Our International Projects: Ireland

At Metalesa we have always been very clear about our main objective: improving the quality of people’s lives through our protection systems. Our job is to collaborate in the development of infrastructures that allow this goal to be met.

Currently, our areas of activity are: Road Safety, Mobility & Smart City, and Acoustics. In all of them, we are specialized in the development, engineering, manufacture and marketing of products for road, urban and railway equipment.

In addition, our export vocation has allowed us to protect people in different countries. Through the commercialization of our solutions we have been able to carry out the quality of our products to international markets, exporting to more than 40 countries on 4 continents.

Precisely, in today's article we want to talk to you about two of our international projects, specifically some that we have recently concluded in Ireland.

META13 parapet, the most complete containment system in its range

We present two projects with two aspects in common: They are in Ireland and in both cases the infrastructures were equipped with the META13 Parapet, our H2 containment level model

Works were carried out on the N25 New Ross Bypass roads in 2019 (1,1775 meters from META13) and on the M11 Gorey to Enniscorthy in 2018 (220 m from META13). We are very proud that Metalesa has participated in these international projects and that our products are contributing to the improvement of road safety beyond our borders.

We leave you the spectacular images of both projects

N25 New Ross Bypass

N25 New Ross Bypass

M11 Gorey to Enniscorthy

 

Features of the META13 parapet

The META13 steel parapet is a vehicle containment system designed for installation on the edges of bridge decks, grade-separated crossings, supporting wall crowns, and similar works.The device is approved according to Standard UNE EN 1317 Parts 1 and 2 that, together with compliance with Part 5 regarding production control, has obtained the CE marking.

Something that favors the possibility of installing our parapets in Ireland is precisely the creation of this regulation, since since 2011 it is mandatory that vehicle containment systems installed in the European Union be certified under the UNE EN 1317 standard. sense, the acceptance criteria after passing the rigorous tests to which the parapets are subjected, are the same for the entire European Union.

If you want to know more about the UNE EN 1317 Standard, we recommend you read this article.

Here are some of the advantages of the META13 steel parapet:

  • Reliability of the containment system following testing in the worst possible scenario on a cantilevered bridge deck.
  • The reduced dynamic deflection DN=0.6 m and the excellent working width WN=0.8 m (W2) of the system mean that it can be installed on supporting elements of optimised dimensions.
  • These properties allow for the installation of acoustic screens and vandal-proof fences at very short distances from the parapet.
  • System with shear anchor. In the event of a collision, it is rapid, simple and cheap to replace, with no structural alterations to the bridge deck.
  • Simple assembly due to its small number of components.
  • Can be transformed into an H3 system.
  • System versatility, as it can act as both a vehicle and a pedestrian containment system by installing a grille.
  • Alternative anchoring systems can be adapted for existing bridges.
  • Hot-dip galvanising of all its components according to Standard EN 1461.
  • Powder coating in the different standard colours of the RAL chart.

Our vision: an international future

Just as we have our mission clear, our vision too:

"We aspire to become a customer-oriented company with international recognition, anticipating the future of the sector."

And it is that our projects in Ireland are just one example of our commitment to society to get our products to the whole world. We believe that innovation is the key to being able to continue offering the market safer systems with higher performance, for this reason, we have our own R&D team that is responsible for researching and developing new products.

If you want to know more about our international projects, or need to ask us anything about our products, do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help you in your project.

 


Know the regulations of containment systems

At Metalesa, whenever we talk to you about our products, we tell you what they are for, all their features, their advantages... That is why today we bring you a slightly different article in which we will talk about a topic that we usually touch on on our blog: regulation of vehicle containment systems UNE EN 1317.

If you need to review the existing vehicle containment systems, we recommend you read this article by clicking on this link.

A common regulation for the improvement of Road Safety

Since January 2011, it is mandatory for vehicle restraint systems installed in the European Union to be certified under the UNE EN 1317 standard. The creation of this standard implies the homogenization of the testing methodology for restraint systems and acceptance criteria, thus favoring Road Safety.

We understand that such technical standards can be difficult to understand and interpret, therefore, at Metalesa, as experts in the UNE EN 1317 Standard and as part of the UNE CTN135 standardization committee, we want to be your reference in Containment Systems Regulations . For this reason, in this article we will explain everything you need to know about the UNE 1317 Standard.

What is the UNE?

To explain the UNE EN 1317 regulation, it is first important to know where it comes from.

The UNE (Spanish Association for Standardization) is the only Standardization Organization in Spain. Its work lies in the creation of regulations for the different sectors, so that they conform to a series of standardized and accepted norms, which guarantee the quality and excellence of companies.

Specifically, at Metalesa we are part of the CTN-135 Standardization Committee (Equipment for Road Signalling), which is responsible for developing standards for the standardization of those elements or equipment intended for signalling, security, beaconing and traffic intended for information, planning and road safety. Therefore, the creation of standards related to vehicle restraint systems is included here.

Since its creation, the CTN-135 Normalizing Committee has elaborated 283 norms to favour Road Safety. In this article, we will focus specifically on the UNE EN 1317 standard.

Everything you need to know about the UNE EN 1317 STANDARD, the regulations for Vehicle Containment Systems

Vehicle restraint systems are essential Road Safety equipment on roads to avoid the serious consequences of an accident, which is why it is so important that their operation is subject to the acceptance criteria imposed by the UNE EN 1317 standard.

These are the factors it takes into account:

  • Containment level: Ensures that the containment system contains the vehicle in the event of a crash, without overturning the car or passing through the system.
  • Impact Severity: Reduces decelerations to minimize damage to vehicle occupants.
  • System deformation: Refers to the transverse displacement of the system during impact.
  • Redirection: Ensures the return to the road in a controlled manner of the vehicle that hits the containment system, in such a way that it does not invade other lanes.

Taking into account the above variables, we can differentiate between different types of restraint systems that differ in the consequences and effects that the impact of the vehicle has on the vehicle, the occupants, and the restraint system itself.

All containment systems are subjected to full-scale tests in which the above criteria are taken into account and must be passed in order to comply with the UNE EN 1317 standard.

Next, we are going to explain in a more extensive way each of the parameters that characterize containment systems:

Containment Level

It refers to the capacity of a Restraint System to withstand the impact load of a vehicle.

The risk of accidents on a given road, the speed allowed and the average number of heavy vehicles in each direction at the time of commissioning, determine the choice of the level of containment that a vehicle containment barrier must have.

In this sense, the UNE EN 1317 standard defines several containment levels, which are accepted when they pass rigorous full-scale tests. The list of essays that accredit each level can be seen in this image:

(*) The TB11 test aims to verify that the containment level of heavy vehicles is compatible with the safety of occupants in light vehicles.

These full-scale tests are carried out in accredited laboratories, so that values ​​are set for the speed at the moment of the crash, for the mass of the vehicle, and the angle at which it hits the vehicle restraint system.

Once the containment level has been established, a complex system of high-performance cameras and sensors calibrated in the laboratory allow the behaviour of a containment system to be defined by means of specific values ​​of the following parameters.

Impact Severity Level

The collision of a vehicle against a restraint system entails risks for its occupants. The impact severity level is defined by the severity of the risks inside the vehicle.

The Impact Safety level is calculated from the combination of the following values: Head Impact (THIV) and Deceleration (ASI).

It is important to note that, in Europe, the installation of an impact severity C restraint system is not authorised, as this value may involve a fatal impact for the driver of the vehicle.

System Deformation

The behavior of a safety barrier is characterized by the transverse displacement of the system at the moment of impact. This is defined in the full-scale tests through the working width and dynamic deflection parameters.

  • Dynamic Deflection: Refers to the maximum lateral dynamic displacement of the face of the Vehicle Restraint System closest to the traffic on the road. It is measured in meters.
  • Working Width: It is the distance between the face of the containment barrier closest to the flow of traffic before the impact occurs, and the farthest lateral position that during the impact reaches any essential part of the safety device. . The standard classifies this parameter from W1 to W8 depending on the meters of displacement.

  • Vehicle intrusion: This is the maximum dynamic lateral displacement of the containment system facing traffic without deforming. This parameter is evaluated through high-speed photographic or video recordings, considering a hypothetical load of length and width equal to that of the vehicle platform, and a total height of 4m. The UNE EN 1317 standard classifies this parameter from VI5 to VI5, depending on the meters of displacement.

 

Taking into account the above variables, we can characterize the various types of restraint systems, which will differ in the consequences and effects that the impact of the vehicle has on the vehicle, the occupants, and the restraint system itself.

We remind you that all containment systems with CE marking have been subjected to full-scale tests in which these criteria have been taken into account.

At Metalesa we are in charge of designing, manufacturing and installing vehicle containment systems taking into account all the acceptance criteria dictated by the UNE EN 1317 standard. In this way, we can guarantee the protection of people, and for this reason we must understand the regulations to perfection.

If after reading this article you still have any questions to resolve regarding the UNE EN 1317 regulation, we recommend you take a look at our section of frequently asked questions about containment systems, or if you prefer, you can contact us directly, we will be happy to answer your query.


METAURBAN®, the containment system for today's cities

At Metalesa we firmly believe that the key lever to our growth as a family SME is Innovation, and that is the reason why we invest so much in R&D, with our own team of engineers and designers who continuously observe the environment and incorporate the best of other technologically cutting-edge sectors to our product catalogue. Hence, we can offer no only innovative road safety solutions, but also effective and competitive.

Today we want to focus on the METAURBAN®, a vehicle restraint system specially designed for installation on urban or peri-urban roads, and with CE marking.

Our latest flagship product, designed to promote safe sustainable mobility, is already being installed in numerous urban environments and cities due to its great proved performance and elegant aesthetics.

When we think of road safety, what first comes to our minds is cars at high speeds, but statistics go in a very different direction, and that is that urban and local roads are the areas with worse accident and mortality rates.

On the other hand, the massive proliferation of personal mobility vehicles, and the intensive deployment of bike lanes, represent a notable increase in risk and danger, especially for the most vulnerable groups such as children, old people and drivers of bicycles and electric scooters themselves.

 

Discover all its advantages

METAURBAN® metal parapet has been designed and tested to provide excellent security features in today's urban environments.

To guarantee its effectiveness in the event of an accident, the METAURBAN® containment system has been rigorously tested through a full-scale crash test, according to the European Standard EN 1317, having satisfactorily passed all the acceptance criteria for the containment level N1, the most suitable for urban environments.

The METAURBAN® metal parapet includes features that make it an essential product for the safety of the most vulnerable users in urban environments, such as pedestrians or cyclists.

  • In addition, it can be perfectly adapted to curved paths.
  • It features an easy assembly and disassembly process if components are damaged by impact; there is no need for weld joints or cuts.
  • Regarding its installation, the parapet has been tested by means of a chemical-fuse anchoring system that protects the concrete band against an impact, allowing its easy replacement in the event of an accident.
  • Great aesthetics, helps that today's cities maintain their charm
  • The techniques used to guarantee its protection against corrosion like hot-dip galvanizing according to the EN 1461 standard, and thermo-lacquering in the different colors of the RAL chart respectively.
  • Possibility of incorporating the motorcycle protection system (SPM) into the structure.

In summary, with the installation of the METAURBAN® containment system, urban and metropolitan roads with speed limits of 20.30, 50 and 80 km/h, become areas in which travelling is much safer, which will be key for users to lose their fear and adopt new urban sustainable mobility models.

Metaurban® has already reached our cities. Some projects

Metaurban is already a reality in many Spanish cities. Here are some projects that already have our METAURBAN® metal parapet.

 

Road reconditioning in Bedmar (Jaén)

Pass over A-7 in Estepona (Málaga)

Zamora

We are proud to think that, thanks to the installation of the METAURBAN® containment system, these urban roads are now much safer, and that with their installation we are increasingly closer to our goal: the protection of people.

If you are an installer, engineer, architect or an individual, and you need guidance about this product, do not hesitate to contact us. Together we will create the safe cities we all deserve to live in.


Discover our range of containment systems to improve Road Safety

Ensuring road safety is everyone's responsibility. Drivers should be aware that each journey by car can have serious consequences if they are not driven carefully, but it is also necessary that the public authorities that manage transport infrastructures guarantee safe roads to minimize the severity of accidents as much as possible. This is something that is already being done by both parties: drivers are increasingly responsible behind the wheel and the authorities are working to build safe roads. Proof of this are the results of the latest report from the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC), which indicates that between 2001 and 2020 the accident rate on Spanish roads fell from 5,517 victims to 1,370. That is, 75.2% less. These figures position Spain as the country in Europe in which deaths in traffic accidents have fallen the most during this century. In this sense, Road Safety studies and improvement of the most conflictive points are absolutely essential to progressively improve the road network. One of the most important elements of your safety equipment is containment systems.

 

Infrastructures for Road Safety: Vehicle containment systems

What is a containment system?

Vehicle restraint systems are safety barriers located on the roads to mitigate the consequences of accidents due to exits.

Road exits make up between 35% and 40% of road accidents. Given these high percentages, it is convenient to ask ourselves what type of containment systems it is necessary to install on those roads with a high risk of accidents. Said vehicle containment systems ‘act’ in various situations such as:

  • When the vehicle leaves the road in an uncontrolled way.
  • When there is a risk of falling down steep slopes.
  • When the vehicle invades another lane.
  • When there are obstacles on the road with which the vehicle can impact.

In these types of situations, the absence of containment systems is very likely to lead to a fatal outcome, which is why their installation is so important.

 

Factors to take into account for the installation of Vehicle Containment Systems

The following factors must be considered in deciding in which situations it will be necessary to install vehicle restraint systems:

  • Type of road: If it is a conventional road, highway or highway.
  • Characteristics of the section: If it is a curve or a straight section.
  • Traffic intensity and composition: This factor refers to the number of each type of vehicle that circulates on the section in question.
  • Existing risks on the road: Obstacles, steep slopes, that there are other roads that could be invaded ...
  • Distance between road hazards.

After analyzing these factors, it will be decided whether a vehicle restraint system should be installed in the section to mitigate the consequences of accidents. If the study of these factors indicates the need for its installation, the next step is to decide what type of vehicle containment system is required, for which the following parameters are met:

  • Containment level: Refers to the capacity of the containment system to retain the vehicle in the event of a collision, redirecting it to the road in stable conditions, that is, the vehicle does not overturn or the containment system does not penetrate inside.
  • Impact severity: The risk of the occupants when the vehicle collides in front of the restraint system.
  • System deformation: The measurement of the degree of deformation of the containment system when the impact occurs, serves to define the distance at which said infrastructure has to be installed with respect to the dangerous area or obstacle.
  • Redirection capacity: Ability of the vehicle restraint system to change the trajectory of the passenger car when the crash occurs, allowing the exit to be as parallel as possible to the direction of traffic.

 

Types of Metal Vehicle Containment Systems

After carrying out the previous analysis, we will proceed to select the most suitable containment system. At Metalesa, we are experts in the design, manufacture and installation of vehicle restraint systems and we have a wide range that allows us to adapt to all existing situations in terms of Road Safety.

 

Steel Bridge Parapet META13

This type of vehicle containment system is installed on the edges of bridge decks, supporting wall crowns, passage works… It is a H2 level containment system.

Some of the main advantages of the Steel Bridge Parapet META13 are the flexibility of the containment system, its fusible anchoring system that allows a simple and quick replacement in the event of a crash, and its versatility, since it allows it to function as a vehicle containment system. and pedestrians installing a grid.

It is a device approved according to the UNE EN 1317 parts 1 and 2 standard, which together with compliance with part 5 in terms of production control, has obtained the CE marking.

Steel Bridge Parapet META16

The Steel Bridge Parapet META16 is our H3 containment system, which also has the CE marking after passing rigorous full-scale laboratory tests.

Some of the advantages of this vehicle restraint system are the following: It is light and of small dimensions, it allows the installation of vandal-proof fences and the placement of acoustic screens at a very short distance from the parapet, and due to its reduced number of components the assembly it's simple.

Impact End Terminals

Impact End Terminals are equipment that is characterized in that they are always attached to the end of a vehicle restraint system. They cannot be installed autonomously.

We have several models tested in accordance with the European standard prEN 1317-7, all of which provide the flexibility of joining with double or triple wave bionds, or with normal or double bionds (on both sides).

Crash Cushions

A Crash cushion or shock absorber is a vehicle restraint system that absorbs frontal or side impacts without the risk of intrusion of components in the vehicle compartment, being its installation more and more frequent since it allows to significantly reduce the victims in accidents.

We have a wide variety of models that can be installed on concrete slab or directly on the ground. In case of impact, the infrastructure is easy to repair or replace.

Mixed Parapet PXP

It is a mixed vehicle containment system, as it is made up of a concrete parapet and a metal railing. The latter is installed on the concrete parapet, which guarantees a better containment system against the collision of a heavy vehicle.

In addition, its aesthetics provide excellent integration on the tracks, it is easy to install and we have several models of handrails: With a through tube to a ring welded to each support, with a tube welded directly to each support, or other models according to installation conditions.

At Metalesa we are aware that our products save lives, and that is why we have a great responsibility. In this sense, it is not only important that the authorities worry about the installation of containment systems on the roads, but also to ensure that these infrastructures are of quality, there is a lot at stake. From Metalesa we can guarantee that quality in our products to ensure safe roads.

If you want to obtain a quote for the installation of our vehicle containment systems, call us at +34 96 088 99 44 or send us an email to metalesa@metalesa.com


World Pedestrian Day, for safe cities

"World Days" generally refer to an event from the past that we recall to celebrate. But the truth is that these days do not always represent something to be celebrated, but instead occasions of awareness.

Today is Pedestrian World Day, and it is not exactly a day to celebrate. It is a day that has its origin in memory of the first recorded pedestrian victim: Bridget Driscoll was run over on August 17, 1897 in London, dying on the spot. We don't usually start our articles on Road Safety with this crudeness. But that is the reality. Since that day, the list of registered deaths by car accidents has unfortunately continued to increase.

The importance of 'celebrating' Pedestrian World Day every day

The objective of Pedestrian World Day is to join efforts to guarantee a much safer traffic for pedestrians, promoting adequate spaces to move around in cities, and remembering the obligations that both drivers and pedestrians have.

Some figures to consider

In the Spanish DGT report for 2019, the number of deaths on the roads was 1,755 people, of which a large part, specifically 53%, were considered vulnerable, that is, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. In addition, the report also reported a 6% increase in deaths in cities, with the vast majority of deaths being over 65 years of age. That said, we insist on the importance of being responsible, whether we are in the 'role' of pedestrian or driver, both for our own safety and that of others.

What to do to be a good pedestrian?

They may seem obvious, but believe us, it never hurts to remember these tips.

  • Always cross at the pedestrian crossing.
  • Respect traffic lights.
  • Always look both ways before crossing, even if the road you are going to cross is one-way.
  • Reduce the use of technology on the go. It is advisable to avoid using the mobile phone as it is undoubtedly a great distraction, not only when we are driving but also when we are walking around the city. In addition, the use of headphones is not recommended since the ideal is to have all our senses on the road.

 What to do to be a good driver on urban roads?

  • Respect the signs and speed limits.
  • Respect the cyclists who circulate on the road if there is no bike lane, since they have the same right to circulate on public roads.
  • Maintain a safe distance between vehicles.
  • Avoid distractions such as mobile phone use.

Urban Road Safety. What is it?

At Metalesa, we have always been concerned about raising awareness about the dangers on the roads, whether on the road or in urban areas, for this reason, we consider ourselves to be the standard bearers of the Road Safety concept.

And it is that our company philosophy goes beyond designing, manufacturing and installing products for road safety, since we also carry out this work of social awareness. However, it must be admitted that when the word of ‘Road Safety’ is heard, the majority of road safety education comes to mind, focused on safety at the wheel. However, Road Safety encompasses all areas in which any type of urban or inter-urban displacement occurs. In this sense, 'Urban Road Safety' takes on special relevance, which focuses in much greater detail on the particular cases of road safety in the urban environment.

Given that in today's article we are talking about World Pedestrian Day, it is an ideal occasion to discuss the concept of Urban Road Safety, since, although it is not exclusively linked to pedestrian safety, both pursue common objectives.

Urban Road Safety is the set of actions aimed at preventing, controlling and reducing the risk of accidents in the movement of people, whether on foot or by vehicle, within urban centers.

To put Urban Road Safety into practice, more and more cities have chosen to apply urban measures that include the reorganization of urban space and the promotion of the adaptation of user behavior to this new space.

A bit of urban history: The Car Cities

If we look at it, most cities are designed under an urbanization model that generalizes the mobility of private vehicles, and this situation began to occur approximately from the first half of the 20th century.

This fact gave rise to the ‘Car Cities’, cities in which the infrastructures at the service of the circulation of vehicles occupy most of the urban centers, so the chances of suffering accidents while traveling are considerably increased.

However, more and more cities are choosing to reorganize their urban designs and convert urban centers into more pedestrian spaces, and therefore safer in order to ensure Urban Road Safety. For example, the Plaza del Ayuntamiento de Valencia is now 100% pedestrian after the urban reorganization works that were carried out a few months ago.

Decisions and initiatives of city councils to promote Urban Road Safety

In addition to converting urban centers into pedestrian spaces, municipalities also carry out other measures to guarantee Urban Road Safety:

  • Improve the design of the streets and the signage to guarantee the coexistence of all the displacement systems.
  • Control and sanction road indiscipline more effectively.
  • Consider Urban Road Safety as a public health issue.
  • Act in the field of citizen training in Road Safety values.
  • Implement monitoring systems to improve the analysis of information on mobility and urban accidents.

Our products to guarantee Urban Road Safety

At Metalesa we like to say that "protection is our goal," and in order to achieve this goal, we take care of designing, manufacturing and installing products that guarantee safety in various fields. In the case of urban Road Safety, our railings are designed to protect pedestrians and to delimit spaces between pedestrian and road areas, among many other applications.

Cyclopedestrian railings

The cyclopeatonal railing is a restraint system for both pedestrians and cyclists who circulate on urban roads, so that it helps to reduce the accident rate on pedestrian or cycling routes. In addition, they adapt perfectly to the aesthetics of the urban area.

Steel railings

Steel railings are also pedestrian restraint systems. At Metalesa we have a wide variety of models capable of integrating perfectly with the landscape, since we have many thermo-lacquered finishes and colors.

Stainless steel railings

Their aesthetic appearance makes them very appropriate to be installed in any type of urban area, guaranteeing the safety of pedestrians. We have a wide catalogue with unique and modern designs, in addition, we can manufacture stainless steel railings with custom designs if the client requires it.

Railings with steel cable

Steel cable railings are one of the most elegant, and of course, safe options to ensure the safety of pedestrians.

Railings with perforated sheet

In the same way as the metal railings with steel cable, the railings with perforated sheet also present a very attractive appearance for installation in cities, since they can be manufactured with any perforated design in the material. Depending on the type of perforation, you can create a design that provides safety to the pedestrian without sacrificing aesthetics on the streets. Because ensuring safety does not mean giving up good taste!

The truth is that it is in everyone's hands to be able to reach the goal of achieving a 0% accident rate in cities. Little by little we are taking steps that bring us closer to achieving it, but there is still much to do. From Metalesa, information and awareness articles like the one you just read or through the installation of our products, we try to do our bit. And you, what are you willing to do for your safety and that of those you care about?

If you need a quote for the installation of our products for Urban Road Safety, do not hesitate to contact us. Call 96 088 99 44 or send us an email to metalesa@metalesa.com


How to protect my house from the noise of cars while maintaining the views

Are you staying in a house in a small town on the coast or in the mountains? Do you enjoy views of the sea or nature? If the answer is yes, we can imagine the sensations that have come to mind: calm, disconnection, well-being, happiness ... However, sometimes there are external factors that interrupt this atmosphere of tranquility, such as noise from cars traveling in nearby areas.

It is a shame that the noise pollution caused by traffic interrupts your state of serenity, because excess noise is not only annoying, but is also harmful to health, especially in the face of constant exposure to high noise levels.

At Metalesa we ensure the protection of people, and therefore in this article we bring you the solution to end the noise of cars without giving up wonderful views.

Soundscape and noise pollution

The term 'noise pollution' is likely to be much more familiar to you than 'soundscape', so let's start by explaining the latter.

What is the soundscape?

The Soundscape refers to the set of characteristic sounds of a certain place. That said, there are several types of soundscapes:

  • Natural soundscapes: are those that are produced due to the sound of animals, vegetation moving with the wind, sea waves, raindrops ...

  • Artificial soundscapes: are those produced by human activities, the use of machinery, traffic ...

In general, natural soundscapes are positive, since they generate a type of noise that is neither annoying nor harmful to humans. However, man-made soundscapes are often the cause of noise pollution, and what is even more serious, noise pollution can eventually take over natural soundscapes.

Given this fact, from Metalesa we recommend installing acoustic screens to eliminate excess noise, and thus restore the natural state of the area in which your home is located.

 

Acoustic screens to absorb noise

Acoustic screens are made up of panels capable of absorbing or attenuating excess noise. At Metalesa, one of our star products is precisely acoustic screens, which is why we have a wide variety of types and models of acoustic panels.

With the installation of acoustic screens you will be able to live peacefully at home without the annoying noise due to traffic interrupting your tranquility. That said, if what we want is to maintain the views, not all acoustic screens will work for us. Our recommendation is the methacrylate acoustic screen thanks to its transparent panel.

Methacrylate acoustic screen to maintain views

The methacrylate acoustic screens are made of polymethacrylate sheets, and can be colored or colorless, although as a general rule if we want to enjoy the views we will opt for the colorless ones; they can also incorporate different vinyl models. In any case, we always adapt to the needs of each client.

Its height and separation dimensions are calculated based on an acoustic study, the terrain and the action of the wind in the area. Likewise, the acoustic panels can be adapted to different widths of beam profiles.

More advantages of methacrylate acoustic screens

The methacrylate acoustic panels fulfill a double acoustic and aesthetic function, as they guarantee noise absorption while integrating perfectly into the landscape, allowing tenants to enjoy the views around them.

  • The methacrylate acoustic screen is easy to install.
  • There is the possibility of choosing between various designs of acoustic panels, which give rise to different combinations resulting in mixed shielding.
  • Methacrylate acoustic screens are highly resistant to adverse weather conditions, such as the action of wind or rain.
  • If the customer needs colored acoustic panels, it is possible thanks to the galvanized and thermo-lacquered components of the acoustic panels, in different standard colors from the RAL chart.
  • All our acoustic screens, including the methacrylate acoustic screen, have been mechanically tested according to the EN 1794-1 standard.

The methacrylate acoustic screens are the perfect solution to guarantee your well-being in your home, while you have the pleasure of enjoying the landscape that surrounds you. Be it the beach, nature, beautiful views in urban areas ... We all deserve to live in a soundscape in which we can feel comfortable. If you want to end the noise in your house, do not hesitate to contact us by calling 96 088 99 44 or sending an email to metalsa@metalesa.com


This summer, Road Safety on the roads

The time most desired by most has finally arrived, the summer holidays. Heat, beach, disconnection from work and the daily routine ... Unfortunately, the other side of the coin is the usual increase in traffic accidents due to the enormous volume of vehicles moving on the roads.

In addition, this year we are facing a somewhat different summer, as we come from a time marked by mobility restrictions and the health emergency due to COVID-19. For a long time we have had to stay in our regions without the possibility of vacations or travel, so it is natural that with the arrival of good weather there is a significant increase in national travel, and with the need to be extremely careful on the roads.

Road Safety is everyone's business. If we are all aware of the importance of being responsible when driving, we will be able to minimize the risk of serious accidents.

Increased risks on the roads in summer

In addition to the characteristic increase in summer traffic, there are other typical summer factors that pose an added risk on the roads and that must be taken into account.

Caution with heat

In Spain, on the hottest days of summer, the temperature of a car exposed to the sun for a long period of time can exceed 50 degrees, which is a risk when driving. For this reason, before getting in the car and starting the trip, it is recommended to ventilate it by opening windows and doors, turning on the air conditioning and not starting the trip until the interior of the vehicle has acclimatized. If possible, the ideal is to avoid driving in the hottest hours of the day.

Take care of your hydratation and never drink alcohol

Lack of hydration can lead to serious risks while driving. The most common symptoms of dehydration are usually fatigue and drowsiness ... It is recommended not to wait to experience these signs to drink water. Always keep a bottle of water on hand in your vehicle and drink frequently, even if you don't feel particularly thirsty.

It's also a no-brainer, and hundreds of drivers are penalized every day for exceeding the permitted alcohol level behind the wheel. Do not drink and drive!

Food before and during your trip

If we are going to take long trips in summer, it is important to eat light meals. Otherwise, digestive discomfort can occur that can distract us from driving and affect Road Safety, and also cause drowsiness.

Always travel with suitable and comfortable cloting

Beyond driving in loose fitting, comfortable clothing, it is especially important to note that flip flops should not be worn. The risks of driving with this type of footwear are very serious: they can get caught between the pedals, slip ... and prevent reacting in time in the event of an accident.

That sunglasses are never missing

Lack of vision can be one of the main reasons for accident risk. Therefore, it is advisable to wear polarized sunglasses to avoid glare and prevent eye fatigue.

Check your vehicle before and during the journey

It is important to thoroughly check the vehicle before any trip, and especially if it is a long journey. Tires, brakes, check the oil level, the coolant level, check that the lighting devices are working, make sure that the air filter is clean and always wear vests and safety triangles.

 Calculate your route previously

Improvisation can be part of the unforgettable trip, but in driving it is not recommended. The ideal is to plan the route to your destination in advance, take into account the stops to rest ... In addition, this way you will avoid being constantly aware of the GPS and you will pay more attention to the road. And of course, the use of mobile phones while driving, unless it is to use it as a passive GPS, is totally prohibited.

Always control your speed

We know, controlling speeding is something very obvious when we go on a trip. But still every day traffic accidents happen precisely due to speeding. Remember, no matter how expert you are at the wheel, extreme caution on the road is a great responsibility that we must all carry out.

Travel accompanied

It is always important to ensure Road Safety, but the commitment is even greater when we transport more people in our vehicle. The co-pilot has to try not to over-entertain the driver to avoid confusion, and in the case of traveling with children, you have to find ways to entertain them using iPads, reading stories ... And of course, it is mandatory to insist that the occupants use the seat belt.

Now you know the most important points to keep in mind when taking a trip during this summer vacation. Today's article we want to serve as a guide that you can always turn to whenever you are going on a road trip. Even so, it is always advisable to visit the DGT website for any notice or news of interest.

At Metalesa, protection is our goal

Our mission is the protection of people. As experts in Road Safety, our activity consists of designing, manufacturing and installing infrastructures specially designed to guarantee the safety of people.

Products for Road Safety on highways

Parapets

Los pretiles para carreteras son sistemas de contención para puentes. En Metalesa disponemos del pretil metálico META13 y el pretil metálico META16, los cuales han sido homologados por la norma UNE EN 1317.

Highway parapets are restraint systems for bridges. At Metalesa we have the META13 metal parapet and the META16 metal parapet, which have been approved by the UNE EN 1317 standard.

Transitions to concrete barriers

Highway transitions are used to link different vehicle restraint systems, such as a parapet and a concrete barrier. Our transitions are homologated by the French standard NF 058.

Impact terminals 

They are road safety devices that are placed at the ends of the parapets or containment barriers, as a safe ending element. We have several models of impact terminals, which share a series of characteristics such as the possibility of allowing the connection with a double or triple wave bionde, and that all have been tested according to the European standard prEN 1317-7.

Shock atenuators

Also called shock absorbers, their function is to absorb the impact of the car in the event of a crash. They differ from containment system terminals in that they can be installed in isolation, without being connected to any other system. In addition, in case of impact it is easy to repair.

Having said all this, from Metalesa we want to remember that Security does not go on vacation. Our purpose is to protect society through our products for Road Safety and to educate drivers to have an unforgettable, fun and above all safe vacation. Can you help us achieve this goal?


Security fences for parks and schools

Raising awareness about road safety is an issue that should interest everyone: drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and of course, older people and children, who in many occasions are not aware of the danger of certain situations. In this sense, it is important to educate our little ones in Road Safety, not to forget that places such as schools and playgrounds must adopt safety measures to avoid accidents.

As you well know, protection is our goal, and today's article will refer to minimize the risks for children thanks to our security fences and handrails.

Safety fences for playgrounds

It is common for playgrounds to be located near roads, so it is necessary to extreme caution to protect children while they enjoy themselves, and at the same time, to increase the easiness of their parents.

When children playgrounds are sorrounded by road traffic areas, some solution based on fences should be adopted. In addition, these security fences prevent dogs or cats from entering the children's enclosure, which if not supervised, can be dangerous for the little ones.

The correct installation of the safety fence for playgrounds is essential, otherwise it could become another element of risk.

Safety requirements for fences for playgrounds

Security fences are an active security element, hence they must meet certain requirements to be 100% effective:

  • Recommended minimum height of the fence 80 cm from ground level.
  • Make sure it does not have sharp or protruding elements.
  • Avoid shapes that can cause entrapment.
  • Any edge must be smooth, never sharp.
  • Fences must be installed at a minimum distance of 2 meters from the playground.

In addition to this, it is also important to ensure that the installation of the park fence is executed correctly. If the security fence is installed on sand or earth, it is recommended to anchor it on a concrete foundation, using anchor plates with holes.

Here there are some examples, but from Metalesa we take care of adjusting the needs and requirements of the project in a personalized way.

Security fences for schools

Unlike playgrounds, in schools parents are not present to watch over their children. Teachers are responsible for ensuring the safety of hundreds of children, but personalized surveillance is impossible, therefore, it is necessary to install security fences for schools.

The entire school should be sorrounded with fences, either short ones if little children or much higher for older. Each case must be studied personalized taking into account potential risks and students profile.

Now is the perfect time to remodel security fences in schools to face new school year in September.

Types of security fences for schools and playgrounds

At Metalesa we have a wide range of fences for schools and playgrounds. They all guarantee great durability, low maintenance and most importantly, they comply with all the safety guarantees for the little ones.

 

Metal fences

Our metal fences for schools can be of various kinds and shapes, and are specially designed to guarantee protection or close any type of enclosure, in this case school zones.

They delimit the space in an effective way, preventing children from leaving the premises during school hours.

Fences and enclosures

These types of fences are used to close those areas in which some type of security breach may occur. In this sense, they are not only used to prevent children from leaving school areas, but also to limit access to people outside the school, especially at night, guaranteeing both the protection of people and the facilities of the campus.

We have several models, but we can manufacture custom designs requested by our clients.

Steel railings

Steel fences for schools and playgrounds are other ideal containment system to ensure the safety of the little ones. They are easily installed and can be customized them in the color that is needed in order to integrate with the aesthetics of the area.

Stainless steel railings

The aesthetic finish of the stainless steel railings makes them ideal for any type of urban area, such as playgrounds. In our catalog we have available to our clients a wide variety of unique and attractive designs that adapt to all types of environment.

At Metalesa, we care about guaranteeing Road Safety in all senses, and without a doubt, children are one of the groups we pay the most attention to. In addition to designing, manufacturing and installing safety fences for playgrounds and schools, we also consider that it is essential to promote Road Safety education for the little ones, because in this way we will reduce the risk of serious events occurring in this type of enclosure.

If you want to ask us for a quote for the installation of security fences for schools and playgrounds, do not hesitate to contact us. Call us at 96 088 99 44 or send us an email to metalesa@metalesa.com.


How to avoid noise in leisure premises

When we hear the term ‘noise pollution’, it is commonly associated it with the noise produced on the roads due to traffic, industrial zones… But these activities are not the only ones that generate excess of noise.

In this sense, entertainment venues such as restaurants, bars, nightclubs, game rooms ... are also a source of noise to take into account if we want to guarantee the quality of life of people who live in areas close to this type of premises. .

In the entertainment venues several factors are mixed, on the one hand, music is usually very loud, and on the other hand, the bustle of people outside. All this together leads to an acoustic problem in cities to which Metalesa aspires to provide a solution.

 

Acoustic regulations for leisure venues

Leisure venues are obliged not to exceed certain noise limits. In accordance with Law 7/2002, which refers to protection against noise pollution, and many other regional or local legislation, these are the maximum acoustic levels allowed in this type of premises:

  • Nightclubs: 104 dB (A)
  • Venues with musical ambience: 90 dB (A)
  • Game rooms: 85 dB (A)
  • Bars and restaurants: 80 dB (A)

However, it is important to add that, although an entertainment venue may be complying with acoustic regulations, noise can still be annoying for people living in its surroundings, specially at night.

For this reason, it is so important to provide these businesses with the accurante infrastructures to eliminate noise pollution, preferably through acoustic screens specially designed for leisure venues.

First step: carrying out an acoustic study in leisure venues

The first step is usuarlly to carry out an acoustic study in the area affected by excessive noise.

Experts in acoustic studies use both measurement equipment and a very clear methodology. They are responsible for evaluating it there is an actual excesso of noise over the limits established by law. The acoustic study duration may bary from a few hours to several days, depending on various factors, for example, if it is a closed or an open room, or if it is a high or low space.

A noise map is obtained as a result of the acoustic study. If the indicators show that the actual noise surpasses the legal limits, METALESA can handle the solution with its accoustic screes. Later one, the experts will return to confirm that the original acoustic problem has disappeared.

In fact, it is important to bear in mind that conducting an acoustic study is mandatory for all those premises that produce noise with a sound pressure level greater than 70dBA. The specifications of each premises are included in the municipal ordinances.

 

Types of acoustic screens for entertainment venues

 

Urban acoustic screen for leisure venues

Urban acoustic screens for entertainment venues are ideal for outdoor terraces. In addition to being effective, they also fulfill an aesthetic function.

At Metalesa we design, manufacture and install urban acoustic screens for leisure venues of three types: metal, methacrylate and wood. All types of acoustic panels will be equally efficient, but aesthetically one type of acoustic screen may be more convenient than another.

For example, transparent methacrylate acoustic screens are perfect to attenuate noise while customers do not lose attractive views. On the contrary, if it is a space where privacy is important, it might be a better idea to chose metal or wooden acoustic screens. In addition, this type of acoustic screens can give entertainment venues their own style and personality.

Acoustic screen with vegetal mesh for leisure venues

The Metagreen acoustic screen is also an acoustic barrier that provides a great solution to the aesthetic appearance. A leisure space that surrounds its area with this type of screen will create a vertical garden that will act as a decorative element of the walls of the premise.

The growth of vegetation in this type of acoustic panels is achieved by adding over the rock wool a green plastic mesh that facilitates the growth and rooting of vegetation on both sides.

Design Acoustic Screen

For us, each client is unique and that is why we attend to their needs in a totally personalized way. The quality of our products consists of offering the client a product that is 100% adapted to their projects.

Successful entertainment venues tend to have a well-defined and studied design and decoration, and the installation of an acoustic screen should not be a disruptive element in this harmony. Our Design Acoustic Screens allow the owners of the entertainment venues to never lose their style, and at the same time comply with the acoustic regulations.

As we have previously mentioned, at Metalesa we take care of offering a quality product that not only meets high expectations in relation to acoustic problems, but also at the level of design and adaptation to the space of our clients.

The truth is that it cannot be denied that the installation of acoustic screens for leisure venues is always a good idea to guarantee the rest of the neighbors and avoid more than one complaint on their part, improving the image of your premises.

If you are the owner of a leisure establishment, do not hesitate to contact us. It is not worth risking a possible fine, or generating discontent in your neighborhood. Bet on the safety, health and aesthetics that our acoustic screens guarantee. To request a quote, call us at 96 088 99 44 or send us an email to metalesa@metalesa.com