What is a wedge-shaped kerb block (schrikblok)?
A wedge-shaped kerb block (Dutch: schrikblok, sometimes also schampblok; literally “deterrent block”) is a usually wedge-shaped concrete block placed on the verge, on the pavement or on a roundabout to prevent motor traffic from driving off the made-up road. Often several blocks stand some distance apart, and they are frequently painted yellow to make them more visible.
The wedge shape is deliberate. A tyre or wheel that touches the sloping side is guided back; a car that deliberately tries to drive over it notices straight away. How the block is laid makes a big difference:
- Low side towards the carriageway: a lorry that has to run just over the edge on a tight bend can roll over the block without damage. Suitable where large vehicles would otherwise not make the turn.
- High side towards the carriageway: deters motorists more strongly from driving onto the pavement or verge, but causes more damage if a vehicle does hit it.
Application
Wedge-shaped kerb blocks are used at bends and junctions where vehicles cut the corner, along verges that get churned up by traffic, and at squares and pavements where people park illegally.
Points for design and placement (for local authorities, designers and contractors):
- Look at the actual turning circles. If blocks laid with the high side to the road are regularly knocked over, the layout is wrong: lay them with the low side to the road or a little further from the edge.
- Think of pedestrians. On a narrow pavement the blocks can be a trip hazard, with the risk of someone falling into the road. Bollards are sometimes a better choice there.
- Visibility: a yellow colour or reflective marking stops cyclists and pedestrians walking or riding into them in the dark.
- Proper base: lay the blocks on a compacted sand bed or foundation so they do not sink or tilt after being hit a few times.
- Maintenance: replace damaged or displaced blocks; a half-dislodged block is more dangerous than no block at all.
Related Terms
- Mountable kerb
- Verge edge tile
- Grass paver block
- Soil compaction
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