Oxford Plastics Innovation for HAUC Compliant Products

Here at Oxford Plastics, our products are manufactured to the highest possible standards so that they not only comply with HAUC testing standards but outperform them. Meaning when you purchase Oxford Plastics composite trench covers and road plates, you’re not only buying products that meet legal standards but are also reliable, durable and safe too.

What is HAUC testing for?

HAUC stands for the Highway Authorities and Utilities Committee and its testing methods focus on ensuring that plates are suitable for bridging excavations and maintaining access for traffic. It measures the following considerations;

• Material
• Skid resistance
• Safety features

HAUC Material testing

Materials undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet specific safety and performance standards. This is to ensure they can safely bear the loads they would usually encounter in everyday usage. All trench covers and road plates must comply with HAUC guidance.

The materials must also be tested for their impact resistance, especially if they are being used as temporary trench covers. This is so that they have the ability to absorb impact from pedestrians or vehicles without cracking or snapping.

It is also essential for the materials to be durable and resist deterioration over time, which is tested by exposure to UV light, extreme temperatures and mechanical wear.

HAUC Skid Resistance

Materials are also tested for their skid resistance capabilities. This is crucial for pedestrian safety as well as the safety of cyclists and motorcyclists. Testing can include measuring friction levels in different weather conditions to ensure the surface has adequate grip.

HAUC Safety Features

HAUC testing also considers other safety features such as the visibility and reflectiveness of road plates and signage to ensure that it’s seen by road users. It also includes the ability to securely fix the plates with additional ramps or chamfered edges to reduce disruption.

How are Oxford Plastics products tested?

Our products have been tested by AMRC, the University of Sheffield Manufacturing Research Centre which is both UKAS & ILAC accredited.

Testing found the LowPro products outperformed the HAUC’s guidelines.

LowPro 11/11 Testing

The LowPro 11/11 received a 4:1 safety factor against HAUC guidelines, which supports the working load of four times the weight of a 1.6t .

LowPro 12/8 Testing

The LowPro 12/8 received a 4:1 safety factor against HAUC guidelines, which supports the working load of four times the weight of a 1.6t .

LowPro 15/10 Testing  

The LowPro 15/10 also received a 4:1 safety factor against HAUC guidelines, which supports four times the weight of a 3.5t vehicle.

What does this mean for our customers?

The high standards of testing achieved by our products set Oxford Plastics products apart from our competitors. With a 4:1 safety factor, you can be confident that our trench covers have a reduced rate of product failure. Choose Oxford Plastics as an Industry leader in road plates and trench covers.

How can Oxford Plastics Help?

Site safety is integral to what we do here at Oxford Plastics and delivering quality products is essential to achieve this. Find out more about our LowPro products today. Get in touch with our friendly team today.