Safehub's Guide To Buying The Right Wheel Stops

From safety signs and traffic cones to speed bumps and safety bollards, car park operators go to great lengths to ensure the safety of visitors. One of the most effective safety methods is wheel stops, which are essential for maintaining organisation and safety. The right set of wheel stoppers will create clear parking spaces to prevent damage to infrastructure or pedestrians.

This guide discusses all you need to know to ensure you buy the right wheel stops.

Understanding Wheel Stops 

A wheel stop is typically made from durable rubber, and it serves as a stopping point for vehicles when parking. This stopping point aids safety by preventing vehicles from overshooting the parking bay and bumping into infrastructure or pedestrians navigating the car park. They're designed to withstand harsh weather and regular impact from heavy vehicles. Some car parks prefer Surface Mount Bollards wrapped in reflective tape, but a wheel stop system is highly efficient and more aesthetically pleasing. 

The key to investing in the right wheel stop is that it is waterproof, heat and oil-resistant. Concrete used to be the most common option, but several materials are available now. The two most common types are concrete and rubber.

• Budget-wise, concrete is the least expensive wheel stop available. It is heavy material, which means that you’ll need more hands for transportation and installation. Concrete can also lead to damage to smaller or lower-profile vehicles. 
• Rubber wheel stops are the most common type you’ll see in standard car parks, as well as in industrial settings that require a heavier-duty traffic management solution. They might be more expensive than their concrete counterpart, but they are just as durable (if not more so). Reflective panels improve the visibility of rubber stops, and they're lightweight for transportation and installation. They're also durable, weather-resistant, and won't damage vehicles.

Other, less commonly used, types of wheel stops include:

• Steel is typically found in industrial settings where heavy trucks and vans are the norm. These are installed on concrete surfaces to protect infrastructure, but they aren't as popular today now that rubber and plastic are available. 
• Plastic is a popular choice. Not only are plastic wheel stops highly durable, but they also come in various designs and colours, which can contribute to the property's overall aesthetic. The drawback of plastic is the risk of melting under extreme heat. 

In addition to car parks, wheel stops are also suitable for use in garages, stadiums, temporary events, building sites, schools, and anywhere else traffic management is paramount. 

Factors to Consider When Purchasing

There are several factors to consider when buying wheel stops. 

1.     Material: determine your budget and the type of vehicles that will be operating in the space. The right material will stand up against the weather, chemicals, and vehicle bumps. You should also consider visibility and the installation process. Rubber and plastic only require one person for transport and installation.

2.     Size. Height and width are also important factors to consider. Modern concrete wheel stops are typically taller, which may be more useful in an industrial setting where high-value equipment is everywhere.

3.     Visibility: The wheel stop of your choice should be highly visible in low-light conditions to ensure safety, whether it comes standard or needs to be painted.

4.     Anchoring: Every wheel stop variation comes with its own anchoring system, typically with adhesive pads or bolts. They're designed for use with various surfaces, but be sure your choice is suitable for yours.

5.     Maintenance: It's worth considering the level of maintenance each option will require, you want to install and essentially forget about them outside of regular safety checks. You don't want to worry about frequent replacements or repairs. The cheapest option isn't always the most cost-effective choice, but wheel stops are an overall cost-efficient solution to improve parking management.

Safety and Compliance

AS/NZS 2890. 1:2021 regulates requirements for wheel stops, requiring dimensions of at least 100mm width, 100mm height, and 1650mm length. This is considered a sufficient stopping distance between a vehicle and a walkway or infrastructure to prevent damage or obstructions. 

If you are installing truck wheel stops, the usual method is two 1250mm stops to create a larger space, and a height of 150mm to accommodate larger tyres. 

As for positioning, wheel stops shouldn't impede foot traffic but must prevent vehicle overhang. There are clear guidelines for placement within the Australian Standard. 

There is no requirement in terms of material, provided it is durable and can withstand the expected load. Reflective colours are recommended, especially if the installation is in a poorly lit area.

As long as you adhere to the guidelines, you will meet the safety needs and expectations of visitors. Failure to comply with the basics of the standard could lead to legal issues, including fines and increased liability. 

Final Thoughts 

Safehub offers a variety of safety products, whether you're investing in wheel stops, road signs, removable bollards, convex mirrors or line-marking equipment. It's your responsibility to provide due care to the employees and visitors using your car park, but it's our job to provide you with premium safety solutions. In addition to a wide range of safety products, we also offer installation services. Check out our range online and get in touch if you have any question or concerns.