Visibility is one of the most critical factors in accident prevention and efficient management of road infrastructures. In this context, the retroreflectometer has become a key tool to ensure that signs, road markings, and other reflective elements comply with regulatory standards and provide the necessary level of visibility both day and night.

These devices allow precise measurement of the retroreflection level of reflective materials, an essential parameter to guarantee that road users (drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians) can detect and correctly interpret signage in adverse conditions or low light.

A retroreflectometer is a measuring instrument designed to quantify the retroreflective capacity of a surface, that is, its ability to reflect light back to the emitting source. This optical behavior is key in road signage, high-visibility clothing, license plates, and delineation elements, as it allows objects to be visible under vehicle headlights.

Unlike other optical devices, the retroreflectometer simulates real nighttime observation conditions, measuring the coefficient of retroreflected luminance (RA or RL, depending on the type of material). These measurements are essential to verify compliance with regulations such as EN 1436 (road markings), EN 12899-1 (vertical signs), or ISO 20471 (high-visibility clothing).

Its use is common among maintenance technicians, quality control laboratories, signage manufacturers, and road safety managers, as it enables data-driven decisions regarding the durability, legibility, and effectiveness of retroreflective materials under different environmental conditions.

Retroreflectometers are mainly classified based on the type of surface they measure: horizontal, vertical, or inclined. Each is designed to analyze specific materials and simulate light behavior under real traffic conditions.

The operation of a retroreflectometer is based on the principles of retroreflection, an optical phenomenon whereby light striking a surface is reflected back toward its source with minimal dispersion. This property is key for visibility in low-light situations, such as nighttime driving.

When a vehicle’s headlights illuminate a sign or road marking made of retroreflective material, the light rays strike the surface and are redirected directly back toward the driver. This capability is due to the use of glass microbeads or cube prisms in the reflective materials, which reorient the light with greater efficiency than traditional reflectors.

A retroreflectometer incorporates three fundamental elements:

The measurement process simulates a real nighttime visibility situation:

This value is compared against standards defined by European regulations such as EN 1436, allowing verification of whether a road marking or sign meets the minimum visibility requirements.

The use of retroreflectometers is key in multiple sectors related to road safety, signage, and occupational risk prevention. Thanks to their precise measurement capability, these devices ensure the quality and effectiveness of retroreflective materials in various professional applications.

In all these areas, the retroreflectometer becomes an indispensable tool for professionals seeking to ensure safety and regulatory compliance in their projects.

At T2S Ibérica, we offer a comprehensive range of retroreflectometers developed with advanced technology, aimed at meeting the diverse needs of professionals in the road, signage, and prevention sectors. Our equipment stands out for its precision, robustness, ease of use, and compliance with international standards.

Below, we present some of the most notable models from our catalog:

A portable and cost-effective device, ideal for spot measurements of retroreflection on horizontal road markings. Thanks to its compact size and integrated battery, it is perfect for quick field inspections.

Designed for measurement on horizontal surfaces such as road markings. It provides precise RL (reflected light) readings and complies with EN 1436 standards. Its intuitive interface allows comfortable operation even in demanding conditions.

An evolution of the previous model with advanced connectivity and options for geolocation and data storage. Ideal for maintenance tasks and audits on road networks, with exportable results for technical reports.

Especializado en mediciones verticales. Permite evaluar el rendimiento retrorreflectante de señales de tráfico, placas y matrículas. Este modelo incorpora cámaras y sensores ópticos de alta precisión, con capacidad para múltiples ángulos de medición y control de diferentes tipos de láminas.

All these devices are validated by accredited organizations such as DANAK and comply with the main European and international standards, ensuring reliable measurements in any environment.

The choice of a retroreflectometer should not only be based on precise measurement but also on the assurance that the equipment is reliable, easy to use, and compatible with the required technical standards. At T2S Ibérica, we work with the best manufacturers in the market to offer comprehensive solutions for retroreflection measurement, both for horizontal and vertical signage.

If you would like more technical information or a personalized quote, please contact us through our web form or call us directly at +34 93 848 05 68. At T2S Ibérica, we help you ensure safety and visibility in every project.