NTRO Certification to certify roughness measurement devices for NSW

Transport for NSW has reached a formal agreement with the National Transport Research Organisation’s (NTRO) specialist and dedicated certification business group to certify roughness measurement devices for use on the State’s road network.

This means that operators seeking the annual calibration of their roughness measurement devices must now contact NTRO Certification to arrange the service historically provided by TfNSW.

The certification retains usage of the 32km road loop around Gosford on the NSW Central Coast, with measurement data from the client’s device being considered against control data collected in June and January each year.

So what is roughness and why is it important?

In lay terms, the roughness of a road surface is a function of its ‘smoothness’ and grip, and is important as it can adversely impact the safety of road users. Roughness also affects what is known as ‘ride quality’ - the comfort of the journey in terms of vibration and longitudinal and vertical movement caused by irregularities (lumps and bumps).

An overly rough road surface offering poor ride quality will also cause excessive wear and tear on vehicles. Roughness can also be indicative of emerging issues in the lower layers of the road surface.

For these valid reasons, roughness is an important road condition parameter for a road agency to measure, monitor, and manage.

NTRO Certification – a natural choice!

Transport for NSW Senior Manager, Road Asset Information, Jose Carrasco, said TfNSW had historically conducted the certification of roughness measurement devices in-house but the organisation had recently established the principle of external (third-party) certifying entities in a number of areas.

“Behind the scenes we have been working hard with NTRO Certification to provide the service to the industry and ensure the handover is seamless as possible,” Mr Carrasco said.

“The process will be familiar – clients will still utilise the long-established calibration loops at Gosford and TfNSW’s Test Method T187 and the previous Client Manual detailing the loop have both been updated accordingly.”

How can I book a calibration of my roughness device?

Service providers seeking calibration of their roughness measurement devices, or seeking further information should contact NTRO Certification via the e-mail address roughnesscalibration@arrb.com.au