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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What types of signs are required to be breakaway?
2. Is there a federal standard for breakaways?
3. What different types of breakaway systems are currently in use?
4. Do all of the different types of breakaway posts have the same performance capabilities?
5. What are the maintenance requirements for the different systems?
6. What are the maintenance requirements for the different systems?
7. What must be replaced after an impact?
8. Are breakaways required on any other roadside structures?
1. Q: What types of signs are required to be breakaway?
A:
When any sign is located within the clear zone on the side of a roadway it must be protected by guard rail (which in itself is a hazard) or it must be made a breakaway
2. Q: Is there a federal standard for breakaways?
A:
NCHRP 350 Report is the standard for all breakaways, and all systems must be tested and approved by the FHWA for use on federally funded projects. All states and municipalities must also conform to these standards.
3. Q: What different types of breakaway systems are currently in use?
A:
. Breakaway sign posts are divided into three categories: breakaway posts (wood), frangible coupling-type bases and slip bases
4. Q: Do all of the different types of breakaway posts have the same performance capabilities?
A:
Breakaway posts and frangible bases will break when struck by an auto from any direction; slip-base systems are normally limited to a maximum impact angle of 25 degrees off of center.
5. Q: What are the maintenance requirements for the different systems?
A:
Breakaway posts and frangible bases require little or no maintenance unless impacted. Slip basses require the torque bolts be checked and retorqued at least once a year and preferably every six months.
6. Q: What are the maintenance requirements for the different systems?
A:
Breakaway posts and frangible bases require little or no maintenance unless impacted. Slip basses require the torque bolts be checked and retorqued at least once a year and preferably every six months.
7. Q: What must be replaced after an impact?
A:
Breakaway posts are normally made of wood and the entire post must be replaced after an impact. Frangible bases have breakaway couplings that must be replaced after an impact. Slip bases will require that the keeper plate and hardware be replaced after an impact. Note that if the impact is greater than 25 degrees off center the entire post and possibly the foundation will sustain damage and may need to be replaced.
8. Q: Are breakaways required on any other roadside structures?
A:
Yes, roadway luminaries located within the clear zone also must be breakaway, and they must meet the same standards as the sign post breakaways.
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