Whether they are considering fixed or removable bollards one of the most common questions encountered is
how do you space them? This may seem like an easy question to answer on the
face of it, but in fact, it can be quite complicated. There are a number of
different factors to consider, such as: where will they be used, what traffic
is expected and what is their purpose? Answering these three questions
adequately is key to getting the spacing right to suit your needs.
Where Will the Bollards be used?
Are the bollards going
to be used to protect a facility or utility that does not require pedestrian
access? If so, it will be possible to place the bollards closer together in
order to increase the strength of the barrier. If the protected area will have
regular access by foot traffic, it will be necessary to place the bollards
further apart. This is primarily necessary to ensure that there is a safe exit
for pedestrians that need to move quickly.
What Traffic is expected?
Bearing the above in mind, there are a few hard and fast rules
that we can follow. An area that will not be used regularly by pedestrians
could have a minimum of 92 cm between each bollard. A more common figure would
be closer to 122 cm approximately to allow for disabled access. If the bollard
has any bulges or bulky extensions, these should also be factored into the
equation. If the traffic is going to be vehicular in nature then the
anticipated speed and expected mass should be taken into consideration. The
energy generated in a collision is mass times speed squared, an increased in
speed dramatically increases the energy released. If the space between the
bollards is less than twice the height of the bollard, the strength of the
bollards combined is double if the impact hits both of them.
What is the Purpose of the
Bollard?
If the bollard is being used to control traffic they should be no
more than 152 cm apart to prevent small cars passing between them. This could
vary depending upon the kind of vehicles using the space; a forklift in a
warehouse is a good example of this. Special consideration should be given to
access for emergency vehicles into the protected area. In this case, a
removable bollard can be very quickly removed to provide rapid access. If
removable bollards are being used, it is important from a security perspective
that they can be locked in place. There should also be a cover or ground cap to
ensure that the bollard hole is covered to avoid potential accidents and/or
debris filling the space.
If they are interested in a removable
bollard, Perth business managers should contact us. Here at Image Bollards
we can supply and if required fit a wide variety of products including
stainless steel removable bollard systems. Our removable bollards are available
in beautiful yet functional marine grade stainless steel and they are lockable.
Our sales team is standing by to offer advice and answer any further questions
that you may have.
