Latest batch of specialist surfacings receives TIPES tick

The TIPES evaluation of the latest batch of products has just been completed, with a positive outcome being achieved by two products, allowing their usage on roads in Queensland.

The latest products were evaluated under the Australian Road Research Board’s (ARRB) Transport Infrastructure Product Evaluation Scheme (TIPES) as applied to High Friction Surface Treatments (HFST) and Coloured Surface Treatments (CST). TIPES uses a performance-based assessment methodology, developed in consultation with road jurisdictions, to evaluate the ability of proprietary products to provide satisfactory long-term performance under Australian conditions.   

The joint Product Evaluation Panel (PEP) concluded that the following are suitable for use on heavily trafficked roads in Queensland and have accordingly been awarded a much-coveted TIPES Certificate:

• Damar CDC Pty Ltd – HIGHWAY ANTI-SKID – CST, Level 2 certification
• Global Road Maintenance Solutions Pty Ltd – OZGRIP - HFST – Level 3 certification

TIPES Governance Manager, Mark Steidle noted: “While there is extensive experience that such materials play a significant role in network management and safety, it is important that as well as being specification focused, they are resilient and provide value for money to road agencies.

“A carefully considered specification, testing regime and evaluation process are all essential and we would like to commend our latest successful applicants for recognising the significance of the TIPES Supplements that ARRB has developed with TMR, and now administers at the latter’s request.” 

James West of Damar CDC Pty Ltd (Damar Industries) said the TIPES scheme set the bar high, and was a rigorous process.

“We understand the importance of qualifying products and a result, gaining approval is really important to us. We are proud that our product has received Level 2 TIPES Certification showing that they are fit-for-purpose. This gives the applicator, client and road user confidence in the products being used. 

“We are very conscious of the fact that specialist surfacings and roadmarkings are an essential tool for overall road safety. 

“Coloured surfacings such as Highway Anti-Skid are playing a greater role each and every day to segregate, delineate and guide many different road user groups through nominated cycle ways, school zones, town entry treatments, wildlife crossings and other hazards.”

At the time of writing, Damar CDC Pty Ltd has a second CST product being assessed with the determination expected very soon. Applications have also been received from two other suppliers and are currently progressing.

The assessment protocols for HFSTs and CSTs and how to apply for assessment are detailed in local TIPES Supplements, which can be found from the following website: https://www.arrb.com.au/tipes

For more information regarding the TIPES scheme, please contact Paul Hillier of ARRB on 0416 120478 or paul.hillier@arrb.com.au