Since the launch of the HAPAS in 1995, highway authorities and manufacturers have benefited from the increased confidence provided by BBA HAPAS Certification, with the 240+ issued Certificates looking to cover all manner of Highways product testing from High-friction Surfacing systems, Crack Sealing and Repair products, to Thin Surfacing systems and Anti-Corrosion Paints.An overhead view of a road

While the HAPAS scheme may be owned and operated by the BBA its value comes from its close relationship with, and support from, the UK highways industry, particularly the guidance received from their representation on technical advisory committees such as HAPAS HiTAC and HAPAS Specialist Technical Groups.

These Specialist Technical Groups were created to provide real-time technical input in specific product areas from high-friction surfacing (SG1) to fiber reinforced composites (SG13), comprising of technical experts from all parts of the industry. They provided a valuable link to the key stakeholders within specific sectors and are responsible for providing the BBA with relevant information to create the guidelines it works with and to.HAPAS

Getting a BBA HAPAS Certificate is an exacting process that includes a desktop review, audit of manufacture, assessment testing, site in progress and in many cases a performance trial, but our work doesn’t stop there. Post Certification the BBA ensures that the HAPAS requirements are consistently met through post-certification audit and triennial performance reviews.

In 2013, at the instigation of Highways England and the former County Surveryors Society (now ADEPT), Roads and Bridges Certificates were merged with HAPAS to simplify certification, allowing HAPAS to become a clear singular route for approval.

Speaking on this Sector Manager – Highways Steve Hunt said “The BBA’s reputation for technical rigor within the construction industry is second to none and its assessments of products and systems within the highways sector are known to be equally robust. We make sure that the levels of quality and safety compliance are in full alignment with Road Authority performance requirements so that manufacturers and installers operating on the highways can count on a reliable degree of consistency.”

For more than 20 years the focus of HAPAS and the BBA remains unchanged – to deliver quality, durability, performance, safety, transparency, impartiality, consistency and integrity.