Areas with high volumes of foot traffic can be hard to
manage at the best of times. If there are extenuating circumstances, this can
become even more difficult. On top of this, throw in a situation where
flexibility is needed, or access is required for certain people, and the task
becomes virtually impossible without huge numbers of staff. This is where
barriers come into their own as a way to direct pedestrians effectively.
However, a static barrier may lack the flexibility that many property managers
need and that is when expanding barriers become an attractive alternative.
What is an Expanding Barrier?
This is a barrier that is usually made from a tough nylon
belt material that retracts into a post. The posts can be made from a number of
different materials and finishes. A popular choice for many professional
businesses is a classic chrome or polished stainless steel finish. The bottom
of the post is weighted to give it stability, and there may be a material
underneath to prevent scratching on floors. Installed in the top of the post
there is a clever system to feed the belt out to the next post. The poles are
strung together to create any kind of barrier that you may need to manage
pedestrian movement.
Effective Queue Management:
The primary purpose that most people would use an expandingbarrier for would be for queue management. The ideal situation for any area
where queueing would be taking place is to ensure that a smooth, orderly line
is maintained. In the past, this would have been achieved using some poles and
rope, but that will not cut it in the modern age. Any kind of queueing can be
accommodated in even a fairly small space, and the system is very easy to set
up.
Area Denial Functionality:
Another common use for this kind of barrier is to cordon off
an internal building area. Premises such as art galleries exhibitions, museums
display areas, and limited access libraries all use these kinds of systems.
They are functional and more aesthetic than plastic barriers that would be used
outdoor at a music festival or similar event. Another advantage is that as
events change, it is simple to alter the flow of foot traffic and alter access.
Employees that need to enter areas can do so simply without ducking under or
stepping over rope barriers that could cause an accident.
If you’re interested in using an expandable safety barrier
on your property, contact us. At Image Bollards, we stock a wide variety of
high quality safety and security equipment, including expanding safety
barriers. All the items in our product range is manufactured to meet Australian
standards. If you need more information, we would be happy to discuss your
needs in greater detail.
