prEN 12839

Precast concrete products - Elements for fences

This European standard covers precast products in reinforced or prestressed concrete with or without fibres, produced in long series with the same design and mechanical resistance verified by testing to be used together or in combination with other elements to erect fences e.g. boundary fences. Normal weight concrete or light weight concrete elements include posts, solid or open panels, slabs, rails, spurs, struts and base panels. The intended uses may be nonstructural or lightly structural. It provides for the evaluation of conformity of elements to this European Standard. Marking conditions are included. NOTE Annex A intends to provide information on the possible types of fences in which these elements may be part of.

Betonfertigteile - Elemente für Zäune

Diese Europäische Norm behandelt Fertigteile aus Stahl  oder Spannbeton, die mit oder ohne Zusatz von Fasern in großen Produktserien mit der gleichen Ausführung und mit der gleichen, durch Prüfung nachzuweisenden mechanischen Festigkeit hergestellt werden und zusammen oder in Verbindung mit anderen Bauteilen zur Errichtung von Zäunen, z. B. Einfriedungen, verwendet werden können.
Fertigteile aus Normal- oder Leichtbeton sind u.a. Pfähle, Voll  oder durchbrochene Tafeln, Platten, Riegel, Stützpfeiler, Abstützungen und Sockelplatten.
Die vorgesehenen Verwendungszwecke kann nichttragende bzw. unerheblich tragende Funktionen umfassen.
Die Norm legt die Bewertung der Konformität der von dieser Europäischen Norm erfassten Produkte fest. Die Bedingungen für die Kennzeichnung werden ebenfalls behandelt.
ANMERKUNG   Anhang A enthält Angaben zu den Zaunarten, in die diese Betonelemente eingebaut werden können.

Produits préfabriqués en béton - Eléments pour clôtures

Betonski izdelki - Elementi za ograje

General Information

• Status: Not Published
• ICS: 91.090 - External structures
• ICS: 91.100.30 - Concrete and concrete products
• Technical Committee: CEN/TC 229 - Precast concrete products
• Drafting Committee: CEN/TC 229/WG 1 - Products for which the stability requirements is predominant
• Current Stage: 4098 - Decision to abandon - Enquiry
• Start Date: 06-Apr-2009
• Completion Date: 06-Apr-2009
• Directive: 305/2011 - Regulation (eu) No 305/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 9 march 2011 laying down harmonised conditions for the marketing of construction products and repealing council directive 89/106/eec
• Directive: 89/106/EEC - Construction products
• Mandate: M/100 - Mandate to CEN/CENELEC concerning the execution of standardization work for harmonized standards on precast concrete products
• Ref Project: oSIST prEN 12839:2007 - Precast concrete products - Elements for fences

Relations

• Revises: EN 12839:2001 - Precast concrete products - Elements for fences
• Effective Date: 19-Jan-2023

Overview

The European standard prEN 12839:2007, developed by CEN/TC 229, specifies requirements for precast concrete products designed as elements for fences. This standard covers reinforced or prestressed concrete elements, with or without fibers, intended for long series production. It ensures consistent design and mechanical resistance verified through testing for use in various fence constructions, such as boundary fences.

The standard applies to products made from either normal weight concrete or lightweight concrete, including essential fence components like posts, panels (solid or open-work), slabs, rails, spurs, struts, and base panels. These elements may serve non-structural or lightly structural functions in fencing systems.

The document also details methods for evaluating conformity, including marking and labelling conditions. Annex A provides illustrative guidance on fence types incorporating these precast elements.

Key Topics

• Types of Concrete Products: Reinforced or prestressed concrete with or without fibers.
• Fence Element Categories:
  • Posts (including intermediate, corner, end, straining, and gate posts)
  • Panels (solid, open-work, and base panels)
  • Rails, spurs, and struts
• Concrete Types:
  • Normal weight concrete (density > 2000 kg/m³ and ≤ 2600 kg/m³)
  • Lightweight concrete (density between 800 kg/m³ and 2000 kg/m³)
• Fence Types Covered:
  • Solid fences
  • Open-work fences
  • Mesh or wire fences
  • Mixed fences
  • Rail fences
  • Anti-intruder fences
• Mechanical Properties:
  • Loadbearing capacity and complementary loadbearing capacity are defined and tested.
• Material Suitability:
  • Materials must meet established suitability, referencing European or ISO standards.
• Production and Testing:
  • Normative references such as EN 206-1 (Concrete performance), EN 12390 series (Concrete testing), and EN 13369 (Common rules for precast concrete) guide production and conformity requirements.
• Surface Finishes:
  • As cast and treated finishes with testing requirements.
• Conformity Evaluation:
  • Initial type testing, factory production control, independent acceptance testing.
• Marking and Labelling Requirements: To ensure traceability and standard compliance.

Applications

prEN 12839 standardizes precast concrete elements specifically designed for fence construction in various settings, ensuring reliability, durability, and safety. Typical applications include:

• Boundary fences for residential, commercial, and industrial properties
• Security fences, including anti-intruder fencing with enhanced features such as barbed wire attachments
• Public and private infrastructure fencing
• Sports grounds and recreational areas, utilizing specially designed rails
• Agricultural fencing combining solid and open-work panels for durability and ventilation
• Urban landscaping and external structures requiring aesthetic and structural compliance

By adhering to prEN 12839, manufacturers and contractors ensure that precast concrete fence elements consistently meet performance criteria for strength, durability, and safety, supporting both non-structural and lightly structural fencing designs.

Related Standards

• EN 206-1: Concrete - Performance, production, and conformity
• EN 934-2: Admixtures for concrete, mortar, and grout - Definitions and requirements
• EN 12350 Series: Testing fresh concrete – Sampling and related tests
• EN 12390 Series: Testing hardened concrete – Strength, density, and surface characteristics
• EN 13369:2004: Common rules for precast concrete products
• Eurocodes: Structural design standards referenced for dimensioning and durability calculations

The standard also aligns with the EU Construction Products Directive (CPD), ensuring compliance with European legislative frameworks.

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Keywords: precast concrete products, elements for fences, reinforced concrete, prestressed concrete, concrete fence posts, solid panels, open-work panels, lightweight concrete, boundary fences, loadbearing capacity, fence element standards, CEN standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-julij-2007
Betonski izdelki - Elementi za ograje
Precast concrete products - Elements for fences
Betonfertigteile - Elemente für Zäune
Produits préfabriqués en béton - Eléments pour clôtures
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 12839
ICS:
91.090 Konstrukcije zunaj stavb External structures
91.100.30 Beton in betonski izdelki Concrete and concrete
products
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

EUROPEAN STANDARD
DRAFT
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
May 2007
ICS 91.090; 91.100.30 Will supersede EN 12839:2001
English Version
Precast concrete products - Elements for fences
Produits préfabriqués en béton - Eléments pour clôtures Betonfertigteile - Elemente für Zäune
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee CEN/TC 229.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which
stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.
This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language
made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN Management Centre has the
same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland,
France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are aware and to
provide supporting documentation.
Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without notice and
shall not be referred to as a European Standard.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
Management Centre: rue de Stassart, 36  B-1050 Brussels
© 2007 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 12839:2007: E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
Foreword.4
1 Scope.5
2 Normative references.5
3 Terms and definitions .5
3.1 Types of fences.5
3.2 Post.6
3.3 Rail.7
3.4 Panel.7
3.5 Spur.7
3.6 Strut.7
3.7 Dimension.7
3.8 Surface finish.7
3.9 Heat treatment.8
3.10 Loadbearing capacity.8
3.11 Complementary loadbearing capacity.8
3.12 Normal weigth concrete .8
3.13 Lightweight concrete.8
4 Requirements.8
4.1 Material requirements.8
4.2 Production requirements.9
4.3 Finished product requirement.10
5 Test methods.16
5.1 Dimensions.16
5.2 Concrete cover.19
5.3 Surface characteristic.19
5.4 Water absorption.19
5.5 Concrete strength.19
5.6 Load testing.20
5.7 Density.26
6 Evaluation of conformity.26
6.1 General.26
6.2 Initial type testing .26
6.3 Factory production control.27
6.4 Independent acceptance testing and compliance criteria.29
7 Marking and labelling .30
7.1 Information.30
7.2 Complementary information.30
Annex A (informative) Basic types of fences - Terminology .31
A.1 General.31
A.2 Solid fence.31
A.3 Open-work fence.32
A.4 Mesh or wire fence.32
A.5 Mixed fence.33
A.6 Rail fence.35
A.7 Anti-intruder fence.36
Annex B (normative) Index of references for surface finish as cast - Reference photographs used
to appreciate the incidence of blownotes in surfaces.38
Annex C (informative) Factory production control procedures .42
C.1 General.42
C.2 Procedure.42
C.3 Guide on inspection frequencies.43
Annex D (informative) Acceptance testing of a consignment at delivery.47
D.1 General.47
D.2 Sampling.47
D.3 Places and dates of inspection and acceptance testing.47
D.4 Compliance.48
Annex E (normative) Test of water absorption.49
Annex ZA (informative) Clauses of this European Standard addressing the provisions of the EU
Construction Products Directive .50
ZA.1 Clauses of this European Standard addressing the provisions of the EU Construction
Products Directive.50
ZA.2 Procedure for attestation of conformity of precast concrete elements for boundary fences.51
ZA.3 CE marking.52
Bibliography.54

Foreword
This document (prEN 12839:2007) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 229 “Precast
concrete products”, the secretariat of which is held by AFNOR.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
This document will supersede EN 12839:2001.
This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the
European Free Trade Association, and supports essential requirements of EU Directive(s).
For relationship with EU Directive(s), see informative Annex ZA, which is an integral part of this document.
1 Scope
This European standard covers precast products in reinforced or prestressed concrete with or without fibres,
produced in long series with the same design and mechanical resistance verified by testing to be used
together or in combination with other elements to erect fences e.g. boundary fences.
Normal weight concrete or light weight concrete elements include posts, solid or open panels, slabs, rails,
spurs, struts and base panels.
The intended uses may be nonstructural or lightly structural.
It provides for the evaluation of conformity of elements to this European Standard. Marking conditions are
included.
NOTE Annex A intends to provide information on the possible types of fences in which these elements may be part
of.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 206-1:2000, Concrete – Performance, production and conformity.
EN 934-2, Admixtures for concrete, mortar and grout – Part 2: Concrete admixtures – definitions,
requirements, conformity, marking and labelling.
EN 12350-1, Testing fresh concrete – Part 1: Sampling.
EN 12390-1, Testing hardened concrete – Part 1: Shape, dimensions and other requirements for specimens
and moulds.
EN 12390-2, Testing hardened concrete – Part 2: Making and curing specimens for strength tests.
EN 12390-3, Testing hardened concrete – Part 3: Compressive strength of test specimens.
EN 12390-4, Testing hardened concrete – Part 4: Compressive strength - Specification for testing machine.
EN 12390-7, Testing hardened concrete – Part 7: Density of hardened concrete.
EN 13369:2004, Common rules for precast concrete product.
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1 Types of fences
Annex A provides illustrations of typical fences.
3.1.1
solid fence
fence made of posts and solid panels or cladding
3.1.2
open-work fence
fence made of posts and open-work panels possibly including solid panels
3.1.3
mesh or wire fence
fence made of posts and woven or welded wire mesh, and/or wires
3.1.4
mixed fence
fence made of posts and a combination of different elements with at least one base panel or fence made of
load-bearing base enclosure walls working as a base panel and a combination of different (welded) wire
meshes
3.1.5
rail fence
fence made of posts and rails
3.1.6
anti-intruder fence
mesh fence, solid fence or mixed fence with an enhanced level of security provided by the addition of barbed
wire, barbed tape or similar attached to posts with cranked or vertical extensions
3.2 Post
Vertical element of reinforced or prestressed concrete, intended to be buried or fastened at its base.
NOTE This element is designed to accommodate solid or open-work panels and/or rails, meshes or wires.
3.2.1
intermediate post
post used in the fence line, interposed between ends, direction changes and straining points (if any)
3.2.2
accessory post
post shaped and designed to provide a particular function
3.2.2.1
corner post
post used at a change of direction
3.2.2.2
end post
post used at the extremity of a fence line
3.2.2.3
straining post
post from which tension wires are stretched, with or without struts (e.g. end-straining post, corner post,
intermediate straining post)
3.2.2.4
gate post
post used to support a gate
3.3 Rail
Horizontal element of reinforced or prestressed concrete, connected to and supported by the post.
NOTE Rails for sports grounds are distinguished from other types of rails.
3.4 Panel
3.4.1
solid panel
panel of reinforced concrete
3.4.2
open-work panel
panel with regular or varied open-work patterns
3.4.3
base panel
panel of reinforced concrete used between posts at ground level
3.5 Spur
Short post intended to support a fence post made with a material other than concrete.
3.6 Strut
Element designed to provide support to post carrying horizontal loads.
3.7 Dimension
3.7.1
work dimension
dimension specified by the manufacturer and generally complying with the dimension indicated in the project
or in the manufacturer technical documentation
NOTE 1 The design height of the posts for solid fences is the height of the solid part of the fence.
NOTE 2 The design height of the anti-intruder fence is equal to the height of the post without the butt.
3.7.2
actual dimension
dimension found by measurements
3.8 Surface finish
3.8.1
surface finish as cast
surface finish obtained at demoulding, if necessary after surfacing or finishing
3.8.2
surface finish treated
surface finish obtained after complementary treatment on the concrete in fresh state or in hardened state
3.9 Heat treatment
The process of heating the fresh concrete in order to accelerate cement hydration where the temperature of
the concrete after compaction is above 45 °C or is in excess of 25 °C above the ambient temperature.
3.10 Loadbearing capacity
Loadbearing capacity is the ability of an element to resist a maximum failure load.
3.11 Complementary loadbearing capacity
Complementary loadbearing capacity is the ability of an element to resist a defined load under service
conditions and a defined failure load.
3.12 Normal weigth concrete
3 3
Concrete whose density after drying is higher than 2 000 kg/m but lower or equal to 2 600 kg/m .
3.13 Lightweight concrete
3 3
Concrete having an oven-dry density of not less than 800 kg/m and no more than 2 000 kg/m . It is produced
using lightweight aggregate for all or part of the total aggregate.
4 Requirements
For precast products made into series, mechanical resistance is verified by testing as described hereafter.
For precast products made into short series, it is allowed to use design methods while referring for the
calculation of dimensioning to the Eurocodes and 4.3.7 of EN 13369 for the durability.
4.1 Material requirements
Only materials with established suitability shall be used.
For a material, the establishment of suitability may result from a European Standard which refers specifically
to the use of this material in concrete or in concrete products ; it may also result, under the same conditions,
from an ISO Standard.
Where this material is not covered by a European or ISO Standard, or if it deviates from the requirements of
these standards, the establishment of suitability may result from:
 the relevant national standards or provisions valid in the place of use of the product which refers
specifically to the use of this material in concrete or in concrete products;
or
 a European Technical approval specifically to the use of this material in concrete or concrete products.
For new materials, where none of the above requirements can be satisfied, the properties shall be
documented by theoretical and/or experimental evaluation.
4.2 Production requirements
4.2.1 Concrete production
The relevant part of clause 4.2.1 of EN 13369 shall apply, with the following complementary requirements.
4.2.1.1 Composition
4.2.1.1.1 Use of admixtures
The aptitude for use is established for the admixtures in accordance with EN 934-2.
4.2.1.1.2 Chloride content
The chloride content of a concrete, expressed as the percentage of chloride ions by mass of cement, shall not
exceed the value for the selected class given in Table 1.
Table 1 — Maximum chloride content of concrete
−−
−−
Maximum Cl
Chloride content
Concrete use content by mass
a
class
b
of cement
Cl 0,20 0,20 %
Containing steel reinforcement or other
embedded metal
Cl 0,40 0,40 %
Cl 0,10 0,10 %
Containing prestressing steel
reinforcement
Cl 0,20 0,20 %
a
For a specific concrete use, the class to be applied depends upon the provisions valid in the place of

use of the concrete.
b
Where type II additions are used and are taken into account for the cement content, the chloride content
is expressed as the percentage chloride ion by mass of cement plus total mass of additions that are
taken into account.
4.2.1.1.3 Resistance to alkali-silica reaction
Where aggregates contain varieties of silica susceptible to attack by alkalis (Na O and K O originating from
2 2
cement or other sources) and if the product is exposed to humid conditions, special precautions in the choice
of constituents shall be taken.
4.2.1.2 Concrete temperature
The temperature of fresh concrete shall not be less 5 °C at the time of placing.
4.2.2 Hardened concrete
4.2.2.1 Compressive strength
Under the test conditions defined in 5.5, the characteristic compressive strength of concrete for the fractile
1)
0,05 , after a 28 days hardening, shall be at least equal to the values given in Table 2.

1)
This means that statistical interpretation of the tests results demonstrate that 95 % of the corresponding production
are at least equal to the specification.
Moreover no specimen shall have a compressive strength less than 0,8 times the characteristic value.
Table 2 — Characteristic compressive strength
Concrete Light-weight reinforced Reinforced concrete Prestressed concrete
concrete
Specimens Cylinders Cubes Cylinders Cubes Cylinders Cubes
2 2 2
2 2 2
N/mm N/mm N/mm
N/mm N/mm N/mm
Characteristic
compressive
25 28 35 45 40 50
strength of
concrete for the
fractile 0,05
4.2.2.2 Early compressive strength of concrete for prestressed products
The minimum compressive strength at transfer of the prestress force shall be 25 N/mm .
4.2.3 Reinforcement
4.2.3.1 Length of longitudinal reinforcement for posts
The length of the reinforcement shall not be less than the length of the element minus 100 mm.
4.2.3.2 Position of prestressing steel wires
For prestressing wires of diameter d mm the minimum concrete cover to the surface of any wire shall be 2,5 d
or 10 mm whichever is the greater. The minimum spacing between wires shall be 4 d mm centre to centre.
The requirements of 4.3.8.2 also apply.
4.3 Finished product requirement
4.3.1 Geometrical properties
The dimensions of the elements are not fixed.
4.3.1.1 Production tolerances
For Class D1 products the following tolerances shall apply.
Under the test conditions defined in 5.1, actual dimensions shall conform to the corresponding work
dimensions within the following limits:
a) posts:
 length ± 1 %
 cross-section dimensions ± 3 mm
 straightness < 0,5 %
 location of holes ± 5 mm
b) rails:
 length (between supports) ± 5 mm
 cross-section dimensions ± 3 mm
 straightness < 0,5 %
c) panels:
 length ± 5 mm
 height ± 3 mm
 thickness ± 2 mm
 squareness difference between diagonals: < 0,5 % of their effective mean value
 flatness < 0,2 % of the length
For Class D2 products the tolerances shall be taken from EN 13198.
The producer shall declare the key-dimension for which the dimensional tolerances shall then be conforming
to Table 3
Table 3 — Dimensional tolerances depending on the key-dimension and use
Key dimension Isolated positioning Continuous positioning
± 15 mm ± 5 mm
≤ 1 m
> 1 m ± 15 mm ± 10 mm
For interlocking units in particular, tolerances shall be declared by the manufacturer and shall be such as to
permit interlocking.
4.3.2 Surface characteristics
4.3.2.1 Surface finish as cast
In accordance with Annex B, the maximum total surface area of blowholes is declared by the manufacturer.
4.3.2.2 Surface finish treated
(see 5.3.2).
NOTE Possible efflorescences due to lime or water migrations have no effect on the performances of the elements;
they reduce progressively with time.
4.3.2.3 Ends of the elements
For prestressed elements the ends of the wires shall be flushed with the visible parts of the elements, then
coated with a waterproofing product provided there is adequate data on its durability.
Top ends of reinforced posts shall be shaped to allow water runoff.
4.3.2.4 Interlocking surfaces
Interlocking surfaces shall have no flaw or burr which could hinder the assembly of the elements.
4.3.3 Mechanical resistance
4.3.3.1 Loadbearing capacity
As defined in 3.10 the loadbearing capacity shall be declared according to the result of the load testing as
described in 5.6.1.
4.3.3.2 Complementary loadbearing capacity
An element shall withstand a complementary loadbearing capacity as defined in 3.11 corresponding to:
 its minimum failure load or, for posts, its normal service and failure loads;
 in the case of posts for solid fences, the class of wind under end use conditions, when tested in
accordance with 5.6.2.
4.3.3.2.1 Basis of the requirements for mechanical properties
The requirements for mechanical properties of the elements (Tables 5 to 11) are based on:
a) a maximum above-ground height equal to 2,50 m (excluding extensions for barbed wires);
b) a centre to centre distance between posts of:
 2 m for solid fences and rails for sports grounds;
 3 m for mesh or wire fences;
 2,5 m for other types of fences;
c) classes of wind for posts for solid fences:
— three classes of wind are defined in Table 4.
For different fence heights or post centres, properties shall be determined by interpolation.
Table 4 — Classes of wind for posts for solid fences
Wind characteristics
a
Classes of wind Normal wind speed Basic dynamic pressure
km/h m/s
N/mm
-4
A 100 28
5.10
-4
B 120 33
7.10
-4
C 140 39
9.10
a
Conventional value at 10 m above ground, for a normal site, without screen effect, on an element of which the largest dimension
is 0,50 m.
4.3.3.2.2 Mechanical resistance of posts
Under the test conditions defined in 5.6.2, posts shall meet the following requirements:
a) at the limit of working conditions: after release of the normal service load (Tables 4 to 7) the deflection
shall not exceed 1 % of the element's above-ground length, and any cracks shall be closed;
b) at the ultimate limit state: the failure load shall be at least equal to the value of the normal failure load
2)
(Tables 5 to 7) for the fractile 0,05 .
Moreover, no post shall have a failure load of less than 0,8 times the normal failure load.
NOTE It is recommended that posts for solid fences of at least class B should be used on the sea front or in exposed
areas. Local provisions valid in the place where the fence is to be erected should be considered.
For straining post, the mechanical resistance of posts requirements 4.3.3.2.2 apply but normal and failure
loads are increased by 50 %, except for straining post used with struts.
For dimensions which exceed those indicated in the tables, the required mechanical properties shall be
defined individually.
The values of loads for intermediate posts are:
Table 5 — Intermediate posts for solid fences
Above-ground height of the slabs (m) 1,00 1,50 2,00 2,50
Class of wind Class of post Normal service load (N)
A A 1 400 1 400 1 800 2 200
B B 1 400 1 800 2 500 3 100
C C 1 400 2 300 3 200 4 000
Class of wind Class of post Normal failure load (N)
A A 2 300 2 300 3 200 4 000
B B 2 300 3 200 4 500 5 600
C C 2 600 4 100 5 700 7 200
Table 6 — Intermediate posts for open-work fences and posts for mixed fences with a height of the
solid part longer than 900 mm
Above-ground height of panels (m) < 1,20 1,50 2,00 2,50
Normal service load (N) 1 400 1 400 1 800 2 200
Normal failure load (N) 2 300 2 300 3 200 4 000
Table 7 — Intermediate posts for mesh or wire fences and posts for mixed fences with a height of the
solid part lower or equal to 900 mm
Above-ground height of posts (m) < 1,20 1,50 2,00 2,50
Normal service load (N) 1 400 1 400 1 400 1 400
Normal failure load (N) 2 100 2 100 2 100 2 100

2)
This means that statistical interpretation of the tests results demonstrates that 95 % of the corresponding production
are at least equal to the specification.
Table 8 — Intermediate posts for rail-fences
Intended purpose Sports grounds Other types
Centre to centre distance of posts (m) 2,00 2,50
Normal service load (N) 4 000 3 200
Normal failure load (N) 5 900 4 800
4.3.3.2.3 Mechanical resistance of base or solid or open-work panels and rails
Under the test conditions defined in 5.6.1.4 and 5.6.1.5, base, solid or open-work panels and rails shall meet
the following requirements:
3)
a) the failure load shall be at least equal to the normal failure load for the fractile 0,05 ;
b) moreover, no element shall have a failure load less than 0,8 times the normal failure load.
Values of minimum failure loads are given in Tables 9 to 11.
Table 9 — Solid panels
Length of panels (m) 1,90 to 2,05
Height of panels (m) > 0,25 to 0,50 max. 0,25 max.
class A 800 600
Minimum failure load (N)
class B 1 000 750
NOTE It is recommended that panels of at least class B should be used on the sea front or in exposed areas. Local
provisions valid in the place where the fence is to be erected should be considered.
Table 10 — Open-work panels
Length of panels (m) 1,90 to 2,05
Height of panels (m) 0,90 max. > 0,90 to 1,10 max. > 1,10 to 1,25 max.
Minimum failure load (N) 800 1 500 1 900
Table 11 — Base panels
Centre to centre distance between 2,00 2,50
posts (m)
Height of panels (m) 0,25 max. > 0,25 to 0,50 max. 0,25 max. > 0,25 to 0,50 max.
Minimum failure load (N) 600 800 750 1 000
Table 12 — Rails
Intended purpose Sports grounds Others
Nominal length of rails (centre to centre 2,00 2,00 2,50
distance between posts) (m)
Minimum failure load (N) 3 000 2 000 2 600

3)
This means that statistical interpretation of the tests results demonstrates that 95 % of the corresponding production
are at least equal to the specification.
4.3.4 Resistance to fire
Not relevant.
4.3.5 Acoustical insulation
Not relevant.
4.3.6 Thermal resistance
Not relevant.
4.3.7 Durability of the loadbearing capacity against corrosion and freeze-thaw
Class 1:
The durability of the loadbearing capacity of elements for fences in normal serviceability conditions is ensured
by the characteristic compressive strength of concrete in compliance with 4.2.2.1, concrete cover in
compliance with 4.3.8.2 and water absorption of concrete in compliance with 4.3.8.3.
As an alternative, durability may be ensured by using performance based design methods, e.g. Annex J of
EN 206-1:2000, provided the correlation is demonstrated.
Class 2:
Clause 4.3.7 of EN 13369 shall apply for a design working life of 50 years.
NOTE This may lead to higher covers than those required in 4.3.8.2.
4.3.8 Other requirements
4.3.8.1 Safety in handling
Mechanical resistance specified in 4.3.3 takes products handling into consideration. In addition, the supplier
shall indicate if necessary the limits for handling and storage.
4.3.8.2 Concrete cover
Concrete cover relates to the main external faces of elements.
Under the test conditions defined in 5.2 the actual concrete cover shall be at least:
 either 15 mm, reduced to 10 mm when the thickness of the element section is ≤ 10 cm with a steel wire
diameter ≤ 10 mm or reduced to 7 mm when the compressive strength of concrete is at least C55/67 with
a steel wire diameter ≤ 5 mm and water/(cement + k x addition) ratio is ≤ 0,40;
 or the maximum aggregate size;
whichever is the greatest.
Moreover:
 for prestressed elements 4.2.3.2 applies;
 for reinforced posts, the actual concrete cover of the surface remaining exposed to the bad weather after
implement of the products measured at top and base shall be at least 15 mm.
4.3.8.3 Water absorption of concrete
4)
Under the test conditions defined in 5.4, the water absorption of concrete for the fractile 0,05 shall not
exceed 6,5 % in mass. Moreover, no individual value on specimen shall exceed 6,8 %.
5 Test methods
5.1 Dimensions
5.1.1 Measuring equipment
Measuring equipment shall be accurate to 0,5 mm, until 2 m, and accurate to 1 mm beyond.
The equipment is composed of:
 a 3 m tape measure for measurement of dimensions of rectangular sides;
 callipers for measurement of thickness;
 a 3 m aluminium straight edge and a set of machinist's slip gauges for measurement of flatness-
straightness;
 a 500 mm measuring rule for other measurements.
It is recommended that this equipment be supplemented with two set squares to facilitate the location of the
points from which measurements are to be taken.

4)
This means that statistical interpretation of the tests results demonstrates that 95 % of the corresponding production
are at least equal to the specification.
5.1.2 Posts and rails
5.1.2.1 Length and section
Post
Rails
Lt + Lt
1 2
Length:
S + S + S + S
1 2 3 4
Section:
Figure 1 — Measurement of length and section of post and rail
5.1.2.2 Straightness
Key
1 Aluminium straight edge
2 Post or rail
3 Maximum deviation recorded with an adjusting wedge
4 Plane surface
max. deviation
f or p()% = x 100
Lt
Figure 2 — Measurement of straightness of post and rail
5.1.3 Panels
5.1.3.1 Length, height, thickness and squareness

L +L
1 2
Length:
e +e +e +e h +h
1 2 3 4 1 2
Thickness: Height:
4 2
2(D −D )
1 2
Squareness (%): ×100
D +D
1 2
Figure 3 — Measurement of length, height, thickness and squareness of panels
5.1.3.2 Flatness
The maximum deviation between the surface and the rule, which is measured by the sweep of the slip gauge,
is the flatness deviation.
Key
1 Final position
2 Gauge
3 Initial position
4 Direction of rotation
Figure 4 — Measurement of flatness of panels
5.2 Concrete cover
The concrete cover shall be measured on whole elements with a covermeter or on elements which have been
tested to failure adjacently to the fracture. Where a covermeter is used, its calibration shall be checked before
by using concrete samples containing steel reinforcement with known covers.
5.3 Surface characteristic
5.3.1 Surface finish as cast
The surface finish shall be assessed against the reference photographs in Annex B (on the 1/1 scale).
5.3.2 Surface finish treated
The surface finish shall be compared with the manufacturer's documentation or with a sample previously
accepted by the customer.
5.4 Water absorption
The test method given in Annex E shall apply.
5.5 Concrete strength
Compressive strength shall be determined in accordance with EN 12390-3 using three test specimens. These
test specimens shall be shaped and cured in accordance with EN 12390-1 and EN 12390-2 from fresh
concrete that has been sampled in accordance with EN 12350-1. Test specimens for assessing concrete
strength at transfer of prestress shall be cured in a manner similar to that of the elements concerned.
To determine the compressive strength at 28 days, dimensions of specimens shall be cylinders 150 mm
diameter X 300 mm length, or 150 mm cubes.
Specimens for compressive strength at transfer of prestress shall be 100 mm cubes.
5.6 Load testing
5.6.1 Test method for loadbearing capacity
5.6.1.1 Apparatus
A testing machine complying with EN 12390-4, Class 3.
5.6.1.2 Test piece
A test piece shall consist of one complete element.
5.6.1.3 Testing of posts
5.6.1.3.1 Principle
2)
Each element is tested in horizontal position . The test load is applied at the midpoint of the above-ground
length and in the direction of wind loading, as shown in Figure 5.
The weight of the post shall be taken into consideration.
5.6.1.3.2 Procedure
Each element shall undergo the following operations:
L
hs
 measure the appropriate distance L = for the application of loads;
e
 clamp the post horizontally at its lower end so that the free length of the posts equals its above-ground
length L when in service;
hs
 apply the load at the distance L ± 20 mm from the clamped end;
e
 increase the load at a rate of 100 N/s ± 20 N/s;
 record the failure load R.
2)
Because of security during testing and stroke of hydraulic jack, posts are tested in horizontal position with a vertical
load applied at the midpoint above ground level.
Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 Raising
Figure 5 — Testing of post
5.6.1.3.3 Expression of results
Note down the total length of the post, the above-ground length L , the mass per length m the distance L .
hs p, e
On the basis of the failure load R recorded, calculate the real failure load R :
R
R = R+()P ×L
R m hs
where
R is the failure load recorded, in newtons;
m is the mass of the post per metre of length, in newtons by metre;
p
L is the above-ground height of posts in metres; for posts for anti-intruder fence, L is the height of the
hs hs
straight part of the fence, in metres.
5.6.1.4 Testing of panels
Lay the element horizontally over two supports separated by a distance d which is the total length L of the
t
panel minus a conventional value of 50 mm at each end (to represent the overlap of the panel in the post).
Then apply the load at a rate of 100 N/s ± 20 N/s, over the whole width of the element and over a length of
300 mm, as shown in Figure 6.
Record the failure load, in newtons.
Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 Packing piece (wood)
2 Load
Figure 6 — Testing of panels
NOTE For the base panel with a coping, the load is applied by interposing a hard piece of wood having a thickness
equal to the one of the coping (tests for factory production control can be carried out on solid panel).
5.6.1.5 Testing of rails
Lay the element horizontally over two supports which are separated by a distance d which is the total length L
t
of the rail minus a conventional value of 50 mm at each end (to represent the overlap of the panel in the rail).
Rest the element on the two supports according to the conditions in use, either on one side or, suitably
secured, on one edge as shown in Figure 7.
Apply the load at a rate of 100 N/s ± 20 N/s, over the whole thickness and over a length of 450 mm, as shown
in Figure 8.
Record the failure load, in newtons.

Key
1 Complementary forms in hard wood
2 Rails
Figure 7 — Examples of complementary forms in hard wood
Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 Packing (wood)
2 Load
Figure 8 — Testing of rails
5.6.2 Test method for complementary loadbearing capacity
5.6.2.1 Apparatus
A testing machine complying with standard EN 12390-4, Class 3.
5.6.2.2 Test piece
A test piece shall consist of one complete element.
5.6.2.3 Testing of posts
5.6.2.3.1 Principle
3)
Each element is tested in horizontal position . The test load is applied at the midpoint of the above-ground
length and in the direction of wind loading, as shown in Figure 5.
The weight of the post shall be taken into consideration.
So, each test load to be applied (C and C ) is calculated as follows:
ES ER
C =C−(m ×L )
E p hs
L
hs
with L =
e
where
C is the test load to be applied, in newtons (C = test service load, C = test failure load);
E ES ER
C is the normal load specified in Tables 4 to 7, except for straining posts for which values in the tables
shall be multiplied by 1,5, in newtons;
m is the weight of the post per metre of length, in newtons per metre;
p
L is the fence height (in metres) which the post in question is intended to support, excluding any
hs
barbed wire extensions;
L is the distance between the embedding of the post and the point of application of load, in metres.
e
EXAMPLE For a class C intermediate post with L = 2,5 m and m = 400 N/m:

hs p
a) the weight of the post out of embedding will be m x L = 1 000 N;
p hs
b) from reference to Tables 4 to 7:
 normal service load is 4 000 N;
 normal failure load is 7 200 N.

3)
Because of security during testing and stroke of hydraulic jack, posts are tested in horizontal position with a vertical
load applied at the midpoint above ground level.
Thus, the specified normal service and failure loads take account of these testing conditions ; they are equivalent to
requirements on posts in vertical load position with a horizontal load applied on the top. Moreover, during testing, the
weight of the post is deducted to calculate testing loads from specified loads.
Therefore the test loads to apply are:
 test service load C = 4 000 N – 1 000 N = 3 000 N;
ES
 test failure load C = 7 200 N – 1 000 N = 6 200 N.
ER
5.6.2.3.2 Procedure
Each element shall undergo the following operations:
L
hs
 measure the appropriate distance L = for the application of test loads;
e
 calculate the test loads C (service) and C (failure), from Tables 4 to 7;
ES ER
 clamp the post horizontally at its lower end so that the free length of the posts equals its above-ground
length L when in service;
hs
 from the top of the post, measure height h , as shown in Figure 5 and record it;
 apply the load at the distance L from the clamped end;
e
 increase the load at a rate of 100 N/s ± 20 N/s, up to C ;
ES
 release the load and record any persistent crack;
 from the top of the post, measure height h and record it;
 reload at a rate of 100 N/s ± 20 N/s until failure occurs;
 record the failure load R.
5.6.2.3.3 Expression of results
Note down the total length of the post, the above-ground length L , the mass per length m the distance L
hs p, e
and the corresponding values for C and C .
ES ER
Calculate the deflection f as a percentage as follows:
h −h
2 1
f = ×100
L
hs
where
h is the distance between the ground level and the lower face of the post before loading in millimetres;
h is the distance between the ground level and the lowel face of the post after release of the normal
service load, in millimetres;
L is the fence height (in metres) which the post in question is intended to support, excluding any
hs
barbed wire extensions.
On the basis of the failure load R recorded, calculate the real failure load R :
R
R = R+(m ×L )
R p hs
where
R is the failure load recorded, in newtons;
m is the mass of the post per metre of length, in newtons b
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