Deployment
RAP programmes in Europe apply the internationally recognised global iRAP Methodology for determining the lack of safety or ‘forgivingness’ of roads objectively, scientifically and transparently. This method is now being used successfully in more than 110 countries across the world. It is managed by iRAP and governed by an independent Global Policy Advisory Committee (GPAC) and Global Technical Committee (GTC).
To achieve a Europe free of high-risk roads, the roads must be made safer. Success can be measured using our protocols—Risk Mapping, Fatality Estimates, Performance Tracking and Star Ratings—and road fatality and serious injury data, which shows lives are being saved. Through deployment projects, we can understand the total road safety situation, where there are gaps, and what support is needed.
- iRAP is the ‘gatekeeper’ of RAP protocols being used in Europe ensuring quality and consistency in applying the iRAP protocols nationally and advocating for safer roads.
- iRAP software, systems and specifications are freely available to everyone in Europe.
- Via iRAP’s dedicated Safer Journeys Lead for Europe and technical team, general advice and support is provided to European partners on the use of these, as well as advice on procurement and identification of suppliers, and on strategies for subsequent analyses of survey data, including maintenance-related information. In addition, iRAP provides general support and advice on undertaking road assessments at TEN-T network, primary and urban levels—particularly with respect to the implementation of the Directive 2008/96/EC on road infrastructure safety management (to reduce both fatalities and serious injuries by improving the safety performance of road infrastructure and taking into account vulnerable road users).
Research and Innovation
The global RAP has been created over two decades through donations and financing from charitable foundations, NGOs, governments, development institutions, treaty organisations, companies, research centres and individuals worldwide—involving more than one hundred organisations.
This support has been both monetary and in-kind. and has help global RAP become the international standard of road infrastructure safety, including RAP application software and models to be free to use and informed by up to date research.
- Working within the iRAP Innovation Framework, iRAP is working with partners in Europe including industry, universities and leading research institutes to ensure RAP software and applications continue to meet the increasing need for evidence-based tools to inform and shape road safety investment with local relevance.
- European partners are involved in iRAP initiatives and European Commission co-funded projects in order to develop and deploy new RAP innovation tools for regional and global application, for the benefit of all.