The energy-absorbing Steel and Foam Energy Reduction (SAFER) Barrier has been protecting race car drivers since it was first installed at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in May 2002.
The foam used in the barrier is manufactured by Owens Corning, a company based in Toledo, Ohio, known to consumers for roofing, insulation and composite materials – and, of course, The Pink Panther™ in its marketing campaigns. FOAMULAR® is the brand name of the extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam that Owens Corning produces, and it can be found at local home improvement stores like The Home Depot and Menards.
Owens Corning considers itself a silent partner in the sport’s continual drive to maximize safety. Its FOAMULAR® material is used as a shock absorber to dissipate energy on impact. The more energy dissipated, the better chance injuries can be avoided or lessened. It’s a natural extension to the company’s safety culture, for which Owens Corning has been nationally recognized for its continued commitment to improving safety in the workplace and beyond.
John Budinscak, Owens Corning FOAMULAR® product and program leader, appreciates the company’s role in the sport each time the SAFER Barrier is struck.
Owens Corning“There are a lot of safety elements contributing to the SAFER Barrier’s effectiveness, but I’m thankful every day that we can be part of bettering the sport,” he said. “I watch video clips of what I’ll call ‘those instances’ and marvel at its effectiveness.”