This European Standard specifies minimum requirements and other criteria for assessing the general safety and environmental performance of noise barriers and related devices acting on airborne sound propagation under typical rail-side conditions. Requirements for more onerous conditions are a matter for consideration by the designer. Appropriate test methods are provided where these are necessary, but for some aspects a declaration of material characteristics may be required for the information of designers. The treatment of each topic is covered separately in Annexes A to G.