Parking bollards help prevent accidents in parking lots
across the United States. Installing them
is one of the most effective steps lot owners and managers can take to ensure
safety on the properties they are responsible for. These bollards can take one of three
different forms, depending on local needs:
1. Solid bollards - these are permanently mounted
into the lot’s substrate. Their purpose
is to provide an unyielding barrier against vehicle owners that try to park or
drive in unauthorized areas. They are
usually made of steel, filled with concrete, and painted bright colors, such as
yellow, to make them more noticeable.
These are among the most common parking bollards found in the United
States due to their strength and low maintenance requirements. However, embedded types cannot easily be relocated to meet changing demands. There have been advances in surface mount bollards that are stronger than
traditional welded plate bollards.
2. Retractable bollards - these can be
raised or lowered as needed during particular events or times of day. When not in use, they drop into pre-drilled
slots buried in the ground, and are then raised by manual or mechanical means
when needed. These parking bollards are
ideal for use in locations with changing layouts. However, their higher cost makes them unworkable
for some organizations.
3. Flexible bollards - these are used on
an as-needed basis. They bend when
struck by a vehicle, so they provide little deterrence to those who are determined
to break the rules. However, their
affordability makes them a perfect solution when parking bollards are needed for short-term use, such as
during special events like community festivals or concerts. Their lightweight construction keeps them from
damaging vehicles when struck while also safeguarding them from being damaged
themselves.
Deciding which type of bollard is best for your location depends on
factors such as budget, ongoing needs, and local conditions. Given their role in helping to ensure parking
lot safety, however, some type of bollard is necessary for virtually any
property where drivers park.
Originally posted at SlowStop.com
