What Are They and Why Are They Important?
Bollards, wheel stops, and speed humps are all common traffic management tools used to improve safety and control traffic flow in public spaces. When used correctly, bollards, wheel stops, and speed humps can help improve safety and control traffic. They can also help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, and improve the overall quality of life in our communities. It's important for city planners, traffic engineers, and other professionals to carefully consider the use of these tools and ensure that they are used in a way that is safe, effective, and appropriate for the specific setting. In this article, we will discuss what bollards, wheel stops, and speed humps are, and why they are important.
Bollards
Bollards are short, sturdy posts that are used to control traffic flow and protect pedestrians and buildings from vehicle collisions (either unintentionally or otherwise). They are typically made of steel or concrete and can be found in a variety of settings, including sidewalks, parking lots, and public spaces. Bollards can be used to prevent vehicles from entering restricted areas, protect buildings from accidental collisions or ram raids, and provide a visual barrier to guide traffic.
There are several different types of bollards, including:
1. Fixed bollards: Fixed bollards are permanently installed and cannot be moved. They are typically used to protect buildings and pedestrians from vehicle traffic.Fixed bollards can be bolted to the concrete/asphalt surface or concreted into the ground.
2. Removable bollards: Removable bollards can be removed and replaced as needed. They are typically used in areas where access needs to be restricted temporarily.
3. Retractable bollards: Retractable bollards can be raised and lowered as needed. They are typically used in areas where access needs to be restricted temporarily but where a removable bollard is not practical.
4. Decorative bollards: Decorative bollards are designed to be aesthetically pleasing and can be used to enhance the appearance of a building or public space.
Bollards are an important part of any business for several reasons, including:
1. Safety: Bollards can help to protect buildings and pedestrians from vehicle traffic, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
2. Security: Bollards can be used to control access to buildings and other areas, providing an additional layer of security.
3. Traffic control: Bollards can be used to control traffic flow in parking lots and other areas, reducing congestion and improving safety.
4. Aesthetics: Decorative bollards can be used to enhance the appearance of a building or public space, improving the overall aesthetic.
With all these different types of bollards available, businesses can choose the type that best suits their needs. By installing bollards, businesses can create a safer and more secure environment for their employees and customers, while also improving the overall appearance of their property. The team at Line Marking Solutions are specialists in the application and installation of bollards. With the recent increase of ram raids in New Zealand, more and more business owners are installing bollards in front of their shops and businesses as a deterrent to these crimes. If you need advice on securing your business or shop front, reach out to the specialist team for the best solutions.
Wheel Stops
Wheel stops, also known as parking stops or curb stops, are barriers that are placed at the end of parking spaces to prevent vehicles from overhanging onto sidewalks, hitting and damaging buildings, gardens or other restricted areas. They are typically made of concrete or rubber and are designed to be durable and long-lasting. Wheel stops are important because they help prevent damage to sidewalks and other public spaces, and they improve safety by ensuring that vehicles are parked in designated areas away from pedestrians.
Speed Humps
Speed humps are raised sections of pavement or rubber that are designed to slow down traffic and improve safety in residential areas, school zones, and other areas where pedestrian traffic is high. They are typically made of rubber, asphalt or concrete and are designed to be low enough to allow emergency vehicles to pass over them without difficulty. Speed humps are important because they help reduce the speed of vehicles, which can reduce the risk of accidents and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
It's important to note that while bollards, wheel stops, and speed humps are effective traffic management tools, they must be used appropriately and in the right settings. For example, speed humps may not be appropriate in high-traffic areas or on major roads, as they can cause congestion and delays. Similarly, bollards must be placed in a way that does not impede pedestrian traffic or create hazards for cyclists.
By using these tools effectively, we can create safer and more efficient public spaces for everyone.