Benefits Of Different Types Of Safety Barriers

By Author: Tony Scott
Total Articles: 15
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Safety barriers are available in a wide variety of makes, styles, and configurations to meet different needs. When you look for safety barriers, it can be difficult to make the right decision because of the sheer number of choices available. In this article, we will take a look at the benefits of different types of barriers.

A General Primer

Essentially there are only two different types of safety barriers; they are: solid and soft. A solid barrier is made from a harder material such as steel or concrete they are heavy and extremely difficult to move. A soft barrier is made from a lightweight material, and it can be easily moved and deployed, even on a temporary basis. Both types of barriers have their advantages and disadvantages and once you know the general type you can further subdivide them to find the exact safety barrier that you need.

5 Benefits of Solid Safety Barriers

They will last, only massive damage can affect them, and they will withstand even extreme weather.
They are large and durable making them an excellent security measure at public or sensitive buildings.
The can prevent ...
... collisions between car lanes.
Their sheer weight and bulk will keep them in place without fixings.
Steel rail barriers can deflect collisions.

5 Benefits of Soft Safety Barriers

They are flexible, versatile and easy to use on a permanent or temporary basis.
They absorb an impact rather than withstand it, and collisions can be deflected. This is useful for taking the kinetic energy out of a collision to reduce the chance of a serious or fatal injury.
These barriers are flexible; they will only receive the minimum possible amount of damage from a collision so there is less chance that they will need to be replaced.
They are a cheaper option than a solid barrier; more soft barriers can be deployed in to provide warnings, traffic calming and to improve safety.
A single person can deploy these barriers without needing special tools or heavy lifting equipment, and a large area can be covered in a single day.

As you can see, each general type of barrier has a different role to play. If you don’t need a huge inflexible barrier for your business, a soft barrier is likely to be the best choice. Within that category there are many more types of barrier to look at, such as expandable safety barriers, guard rails, and safety cones. These soft barriers are a fantastic way to ensure safety during cleaning, repairs and essential maintenance.

The main purpose of a soft barrier is to inform first with warning signs and colours to make people more aware of their environment. The secondary purpose is to provide a physical barrier that people have to bypass or physically removed. Many people are reluctant to remove soft barriers, and they are usually sufficient to deter most people.

If you need expandable safety barriers, get in touch with Image Bollards, and we will be happy to suggest the right barrier to meet your needs.

Image Bollards was first established in 1994 by Managing Director Tony Scott. The Western Australian company specialises in installing, supplying and maintaining security bollards, vehicle access and control systems as well street furniture. With over 25 years of industry experience, Image Bollards comprises a team of dedicated professionals who ensure that any client receives only the very best of service.