What the New ASTM Low-Speed Impact Testing Standard Means for Storefront Security

Storefronts are often vulnerable to dangerous high-speed and low-speed accidents, resulting in massive amounts of damage along with occasional injuries and pedestrian deaths. The noticeable lack of sufficient protection has led to the development of new standards in traffic posts. The new ASTM low-speed impact testing standard is intended to increase storefront security and change the way storefronts are protected using traffic posts.

ASTM F3016: The New ASTM International Low-Speed Impact Testing Standard

The new low-speed impact ASTM testing standard developed is called ASTM F3016, or the Test Method for Surrogate Testing of Vehicle Impact Protective Devices at Low Speeds. Unlike their standard for high-speed impact protection, ASTM F3016 requires vehicle protective devices to protect against impact from vehicles traveling at speeds of 30 mph or lower.

One of the ASTM members most responsible for the new ASTM standard is Dean Alberson, Ph.D, P.E. Alberson had been asked many times if ASTM F2656 applied to lower-speed applications, and the Propane Gas Association wanted a solution to protect self-service propane storage locations. With these requests in mind, Alberson and other members developed ASTM F3016.

F3016 is designed to ensure that vehicle protective devices provide sufficient protection for storefronts and other areas that experience heavy pedestrian traffic. The new ASTM standard is useful for many different users, including architects, contractors, store owners, design engineers, insurance companies, building code administrators, and people involved in liability lawsuits.

How the ASTM F3016 Standard Works

The testing procedure according to the new ASTM standard involves a penetration rating that traffic safety devices receive based on how they perform in low-impact crashes. This will help manufacturers develop traffic posts that can better withstand low-speed impact.

With this ASTM standard implemented, pedestrians and shoppers will experience additional safety, while architects and engineers will be able to implement tested devices in their designs. At the same time, businesses and government agencies will be able to avoid liability lawsuits by meeting the industry standard.

The ASTM also continues to encourage the development of newer, more improved traffic safety devices, helping to ensure the adequate protection of people and property at all times from low- and high-speed crashes.