Safety is paramount for any industrial facility. It is at the forefront of keeping workers and equipment safe throughout the workday. One essential yet often underestimated element that contributes to safety is the use of industrial bollards.
These sturdy posts do more than provide physical barriers; they ensure pedestrian safety, safeguard expensive equipment, and protect critical infrastructure. This comprehensive guide to buying industrial bollards will outline their importance in every facility’s operations.
What Are Industrial Bollards?
Industrial bollards are vertical posts designed to protect workers, equipment, and property in industrial settings. They are typically placed in strategic locations to create a robust barrier between areas. This could be to separate vehicle and pedestrian lanes, shield sensitive machinery, and minimize damage caused by vehicular accidents.
Commonly made of steel, concrete, or plastic, industrial bollards can be either fixed or removable, offering versatility based on specific needs. In industrial settings, they often serve as shields for sensitive machinery.
Why Are Industrial Bollards Important?
Industrial bollards are nonnegotiable for industrial safety, as they address many challenges in the workplace.
Enhanced Safety
Bollards reduce workplace accidents by clearly defining areas for vehicles, pedestrians, and equipment. Facilities that effectively use bollards report a significant reduction in collisions and injuries.
Equipment Protection
Forklifts and heavy machinery are key assets in industrial environments. The strategic placement of bollards protects these investments from unforeseen impact damage.
Compliance With Safety Standards
Many industries are required to follow specific safety regulations, such as those established by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Bollards aid compliance by serving as highly visible, physical safety measures that keep everyone safe.
Cost Savings
While the upfront cost of installing bollards may seem high, the long-term cost savings from preventing damage, accidents, and downtime far outweigh the investment.
The Types of Industrial Bollards You Should Know
Depending on your operational needs, your facility will require different bollards. Industrial bollards offer a range of options for your facility.
Fixed Bollards
Fixed bollards are permanent protective structures designed to provide exceptional strength and stability in any setting. They are embedded directly into the ground, making them highly durable and capable of withstanding severe impacts. They are designed to endure harsh industrial environments with minimal maintenance.
Removable Bollards
Dynamic workspaces often utilize removable bollards to change the layout. These bollards are typically secured with locking mechanisms that allow for easy installation and removal. They are often used for temporary event setups, restricted access zones, or emergency vehicle paths. Their adaptability makes them excellent choices for industries that prioritize flexibility.
Flexible Bollards
Flexible bollards are specifically designed to bend on impact and return to their original shape, making them ideal for areas where occasional vehicle interaction is expected. They are made from durable materials, such as polyurethane or rubber, making them versatile options for various environments.
Crash-Resistant Bollards
Maximum security is the priority of crash-resistant bollards, which are built to withstand high-impact collisions. They offer a critical layer of protection in areas where vehicle intrusions could pose significant risks.
Crash-resistant bollards are typically reinforced with steel cores or filled with concrete, allowing them to withstand the impact of heavy machinery, forklifts, or even trucks. By providing a robust physical barrier, crash-resistant bollards ensure compliance with safety standards and minimize damage in the event of unforeseen accidents, making them indispensable in high-risk industrial environments.
How To Choose the Right Bollards for Your Facility
Investing in industrial bollards requires careful consideration. Different facilities use bollards for various purposes, so ensure you select the option that best suits your needs.
First, focus on your primary goal. What do you need your bollards to accomplish? Are you trying to protect equipment, separate vehicle lanes, or enforce access control? Identifying your requirements will narrow down your options.
Determine how strong your bollards must be. If a certain speed or vehicle type is common in your industrial setting, choose a bollard that can withstand that speed and force. For high-impact areas, crash-resistant bollards are a must. Durable materials such as steel and concrete work best for heavy-duty and durable bollards, while plastic is a better option for lightweight ones.
Tips for Industrial Bollard Maintenance
Although industrial bollards are low-maintenance, proper maintenance ensures a longer lifespan and consistent performance. Without it, industrial bollards can become worn and fail when they need to be at peak function.
Inspect for signs of damage, including dents, rust, or cracks. This can indicate previous collisions. After repairs have been made, you might want to consider applying a fresh coat of reflective or durable paint annually to maintain visibility.
If you are using flexible bollards, then lubrication is crucial for keeping the locking mechanisms functioning smoothly and free from debris. When bollards are impacted or damaged, it is important to replace them immediately to maintain safety for workers.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Buying Bollards
Many businesses overlook details when buying bollards. An important part of the bollards used in industrial settings is the impact rating, which determines the bollard’s ability to withstand the impact of a vehicle. Some businesses don’t focus on the impact rating and accidentally purchase low-impact bollards that need frequent replacements.
Installation challenges are other issues that businesses often overlook, with complex installations frequently resulting in increased downtime if not properly planned. Bollards must also comply with local and industry-specific safety requirements.
Partner With the Experts
To find the right safety bollard post, you need experts you can trust. At Direct Pallet Racking, we have premium solutions that can protect your employees and facility. Our diverse selection of bollard posts can help you create a tailored solution that suits your facility’s needs.
Final Thoughts on Industrial Bollards
Industrial bollards are more than just barriers; they are vital safety and operational tools for manufacturing and processing sites. Use this guide to purchase the right industrial bollards for your business. By selecting the right type, you can protect your business and enhance your workspace.
When safety and productivity are your top priorities, selecting trusted, high-quality bollards for your facility is crucial. Contact Direct Pallet Racking to explore our expert solutions, and take your facility’s safety standards to the next level.
