Key K-Rail Facts

The K-Rail is one of the most recognizable designs for the safety barriers seen at construction sites, at airports or in large parking lots today.?

It is also one of the most popular, most versatile, and, interestingly, oldest models used for roadside construction and traffic control. OTW Safety is at the forefront of emerging safety standards and technology, and our K-Rail safety barricade is one of our most popular products.?

The K-Rail is one of the most effective products in protecting drivers and pedestrians from collisions or roadside fatalities. Here’s a look at this special barrier design and explain a few key facts about the K-Rail and its history that all industry professionals should know.

K-Rails or Jersey Barriers?

What is the difference between the K-Rail and the Jersey barrier? “K-Rail” is simply the California-specific term to describe what the rest of the country refers to as “Jersey barriers.” Both terms refer to the same barrier design!?

How Was the K-Rail Developed?

Very few traffic safety barriers existed prior to the 1940’s. Around this time, the California Division of Highways decided to experiment with the first “parabolic concrete barriers” or U shaped barriers that helped avoid collisions and minimize vehicle damage on a California roadway known for its terrifying curves and steep grades.

The success of this invention inspired the state of New Jersey to follow suit, leading to the eventual creation of barriers that inspired those we still use today, and thus giving us the name “Jersey barriers.”?

What Makes the K-Rail So Special?

The K-Rail is known for its innovative shape and design. Despite several enhancements throughout the years, the main design of the K-Rail has remained consistent. The angled bottoms and parabolic shape effectively minimize the damage of car-crash impact. When struck, the barrier forces the wheel slightly off the ground and absorbs much of the damage that may otherwise threaten drivers, passengers, or civilians in the area.?

How Has the K-Rail Changed Over Time?

The K-Rail has undergone two major changes throughout the last several decades.?The first K-Rails and Jersey barriers were very small by industry standards, with some sitting at just 18-inches tall. Today, some K-Rail walls are over 40-inches tall! The K-Rail shape has been adjusted in minor ways throughout time to promote higher levels of safety, as well.?

Some construction companies today still utilize K-Rails made from concrete. Broadly speaking, though, more and more organizations now favor plastic K-Rails and Jersey barriers because of their increased level of safety, portability, and versatility. As a K-Rail manufacturer ourselves, we take this innovation a step further and ensure that our plastic K-Rails are 100% recyclable.

Whether you call it a K-Rail or a Jersey barrier, our team at OTW Safety can help you identify the perfect barrier for your needs. OTW remains at the forefront of emerging safety standards and technology. Not only do we produce Jersey style barricades that emulate the iconic shape, but we are also consistently finding ways to improve designs and manufacturing techniques.

Contact us here to learn more or to get started with us today.