How To Tell If Bollards Are The Right Choice For You

Ensuring safety and efficiency in car parking and traffic management is essential, whether it’s a car park, commercial property, industrial site or an event. A bollard can help you achieve this. Bollards are strong posts that have various functions – they’re used to control vehicle access, protect pedestrians or property and enhance traffic flow. You’ll find them in public spaces and commercial areas, creating physical barriers to improve overall security.

In this article, we explore the benefits and types of bollards for car parks in particular, as well as tips on how to choose bollards and how we at Safehub can help. Let’s get started.

The Benefits of Bollards in Australian Car Parks

When it comes to car park management, bollards have a range of benefits.

• They can be used to restrict access to specific areas of the car park, reserve spaces for deliveries or disabled parking, or other uses – keeping spaces open for authorised vehicles.
• Bollards create a physical barrier between walkways and vehicles, acting as a protective shield to reduce the risk of accidents.
• If placed in the right spots, bollards can protect building entries or landscaping, which can save money on repairs and extend the life of the property.
• Bollards also help to control traffic and make it easier for drivers to use the car park without congestion.

Types of Bollards Available in Australia

There are four main types of bollards:

1.    Retractable Bollards

Retractable bollards can be lowered into the ground when not in use. They're ideal for areas that require temporary access control.

2.    Fixed Bollards

These are a permanent solution for areas requiring continuous access control or protection. Fixed bollards provide long-term security for high-risk areas.

3.    Telescopic Bollards

Telescopic bollards are extendable and offer temporary access control when needed. They can be pulled up to restrict entry and pushed down for easy access.

4.    Bollards with Lighting

For nighttime visibility and security, bollards with integrated lights are a valuable option. They enhance the aesthetics of the car park while ensuring that the area remains well-lit and safe.

Styles Available

Within those categories, there are also a number of bollard styles in Australia, including the following.

Flexible Bollards

Flexible bollards are designed to bend on impact, reducing damage to vehicles and the bollard itself. They are used for things like traffic control, parking management, temporary road closures, cycle lanes and loading zones.

Inground Removable Bollard

Inground removable bollards are installed into the ground with a sleeve and can be lifted out of their mounting sockets when access is required. These are suitable for areas that need occasional restriction or access, such as shopping malls.

Removable Surface Mount Bollard

Removable surface mount bollards, available in both stainless steel and galvanised steel, offer flexibility with easy removal. These are ideal for controlling vehicle access in private driveways, restricted zones, emergency access routes, and commercial properties.

Surface Mount Bollard

Surface mount bollards are also available in stainless steel and galvanised steel and provide a permanent solution for controlling access and protecting property. Ideal for parking lots, driveways, and restricted zones.

Reflective Traffic Cone

While not a traditional bollard, reflective traffic cones serve similar purposes in directing traffic and marking boundaries. They are highly visible and ideal for temporary setups.

T-Top Bollard

T-Top bollards are most often used in high-security areas such as government buildings, airports, or military installations. Their sturdy construction and fixed placement make them effective barriers against unauthorised vehicular access.

How to Choose the Right Bollards

With so many options available, you want to make sure you have the right bollards to suit your purpose. Here are a few things to consider:

• The function: What are you using the bollard for? Is it for access control? Pedestrian safety or property security? This will help you choose from the designs mentioned above.
• The traffic volume and vehicle type: High-traffic areas or heavy vehicle spaces might need bollards that are stronger, including those made from materials like galvanised steel.
• Use frequency: If you need faster access or regular control, you might find retractable or telescopic bollards are better.
• The look: Don’t be afraid to think about aesthetics. Choose bollards that complement your car park design – from the sleek look of stainless steel to the practical appeal of plastic.
• Budget: Your budget will always come into effect, so make sure you choose to suit the short and long-term. You might find fixed bollards are more cost-effective now, but retractable could be worth the longer-term investment.

When choosing bollards, you also want to ensure they meet Australian Standards and Regulations. This includes meeting the AS/NZS 2890.1:2004 standard, which specifies requirements for the design, performance, and installation of bollards. You also need to check additional regulations that might exist at the state or local council level.

Bollards vs. Wheel Stops

Do you need bollards or wheel stops? Why not both? Bollards are used to create barriers, guide traffic and protect infrastructure in a range of settings. Wheel stops can do the same thing, specifically in car parks! Used together, wheel stops can keep cars within parking boundaries, while bollards can restrict access and protect pedestrian zones.

Why Choose Safehub for Your Bollard Needs

When shopping for superior bollards, Safehub has a wide range of high-quality options available. Along with our expert advice and compliance with Australian standards, we keep your car park safe and efficient.

From retractable bollards to fixed bollards and everything in between, Safehub provides solutions to meet the needs of Australian car parks. For more information, click here.