Comprehensive Guide to IRC Code 35-2015: Guidelines for Road Delineators

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Efficient road infrastructure goes beyond just building highways and pavements; it also involves ensuring road users' safety and guidance. Delineators, an essential component of road safety, are designed to guide drivers and reduce the risk of accidents, especially under low-visibility conditions.

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The Indian Roads Congress (IRC) introduced IRC Code 35-2015, which serves as a standard guideline for the design, installation, and maintenance of road delineators. This blog explores the key highlights of IRC Code 35-2015 and its significance in enhancing road safety.

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What is IRC Code 35-2015?

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IRC Code 35-2015 provides detailed guidelines on the use of road delineators, which are devices installed along the edges of roads to improve visibility and guide drivers. These delineators act as visual cues to enhance the safety of road users, particularly during nighttime or adverse weather conditions.

The code offers specifications for materials, design, placement, and maintenance to ensure that delineators are effective and durable.

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Key Provisions of IRC Code 35-2015

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1. Definition and Purpose of Delineators:some text
   • Delineators are reflective devices installed along road edges or medians to visually guide drivers.
   • Their primary purpose is to improve lane visibility, reduce confusion, and prevent vehicles from leaving the roadway.
2. Design Specifications:some text
   • The code specifies that delineators must be made of durable materials resistant to weather and impact.
   • Reflective elements should be incorporated to ensure high visibility during the night or in low-light conditions.
3. Types of Delineators:
   IRC Code 35-2015 categorizes delineators based on their application:some text
   • Post Delineators: Vertical posts placed along the edges or at curves.
   • Median Delineators: Installed at medians to guide vehicles in multi-lane roadways.
   • Hazard Delineators: Used to indicate obstructions, such as roadworks or barriers.
4. Installation Guidelines:some text
   • Delineators must be placed at intervals depending on the road type and curvature.
   • They should be installed at a height and angle that ensures optimal visibility for drivers.
   • Proper spacing and alignment are crucial to provide continuous guidance.
5. Material Requirements:some text
   • The code emphasizes the use of weather-resistant, non-corrosive, and impact-resistant materials.
   • Reflective surfaces must comply with photometric performance standards to ensure visibility over time.
6. Placement for Specific Scenarios:
   IRC Code 35-2015 outlines specific guidelines for different road conditions:some text
   • Curves: Closer spacing is recommended to emphasize sharp turns.
   • Intersections: Delineators should clearly guide drivers on lane directions.
   • Hilly Terrain: High-visibility delineators are mandatory due to increased risks.
7. Maintenance and Replacement:some text
   • Regular inspections are necessary to ensure that delineators remain functional.
   • Damaged or faded delineators must be promptly replaced to maintain road safety.
   • Cleaning schedules should be adhered to for maintaining reflective properties.

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Importance of IRC Code 35-2015

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1. Enhanced Nighttime Visibility:some text
   • Delineators provide clear visual guidance, reducing the risk of accidents during nighttime driving.
2. Improved Driver Confidence:some text
   • Properly placed delineators help drivers navigate challenging road conditions with confidence.
3. Reduction in Accident Rates:some text
   • By marking road edges, curves, and hazards, delineators minimize the likelihood of vehicles straying off the road.
4. Standardization Across Roads:some text
   • The code ensures uniformity in the design and installation of delineators, making roads safer across the country.
5. Cost-Effective Safety Measure:some text
   • With proper materials and maintenance, delineators offer a low-cost yet highly effective solution for enhancing road safety.

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Applications of IRC Code 35-2015

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• Highway Safety: Installation of delineators to guide drivers on highways and prevent off-road incidents.
• Curves and Turns: Enhanced marking of curves to alert drivers and reduce accidents.
• Construction Zones: Delineators serve as warning devices to highlight ongoing construction activities.
• Urban and Rural Roads: Uniform application of delineators ensures safety in both high-traffic and remote areas.

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Conclusion

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The IRC Code 35-2015 provides invaluable guidance for the installation and maintenance of road delineators, ensuring safer roads for all users. By standardizing the design and placement of these safety devices, the code plays a critical role in reducing accidents and enhancing road user confidence. Delineators are a simple yet effective measure that, when implemented correctly, can significantly improve road safety. At RoadVision AI, we leverage cutting-edge technology to complement such guidelines, offering advanced road monitoring and safety solutions. 

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RoadVision AI is transforming infrastructure development and maintenance by harnessing artificial intelligence and computer vision AI to revolutionize road safety and management. By leveraging advanced computer vision artificial intelligence and digital twin technology, the platform enables the early detection of potholes, cracks, and other road surface issues, ensuring timely repairs and better road conditions. With a mission to build smarter, safer, and more sustainable roads, RoadVision AI tackles challenges like traffic congestion and ensures full compliance with IRC Codes. By empowering engineers and stakeholders with data-driven insights, the platform reduces costs, minimizes risks, and enhances the overall transportation experience.