Securing public spaces, commercial properties, and high-risk areas against vehicular threats requires more than standard measures – it demands proven, high-strength solutions. Crash rated bollards, engineered to endure high-impact collisions, serve as a vital defense line. Beyond their physical resilience, these bollards act as a powerful deterrent, reinforcing security and confidence in vulnerable environments.
At Macs Bollards, we specialise in providing high-security bollards and barrier systems that meet the most stringent security standards. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the top five benefits of crash rated bollards and why they’re an essential investment for any site security strategy.
1. High Level of Protection Against Vehicle-Borne Threats
Crash rated bollards are specifically engineered and tested to withstand a range of vehicle impacts. Their crash rating indicates how effectively they can stop a vehicle of a certain weight travelling at a specific speed. For example, a PAS 68 rating (one of the UK’s leading standards for vehicle security barriers) may certify that a bollard can stop a 7.5-tonne vehicle travelling at 80 km/h.
At Macs Bollards, we offer a diverse selection of crash rated bollards that adhere to various security standards, including PAS 68 and IWA 14-1. Our Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) bollards are designed to defend against terrorist attacks and other high-impact threats. Each bollard undergoes stringent crash testing to ensure reliable performance against vehicles of different sizes and speeds.
How Do Crash Rated Bollards Compare to Standard Bollards?
Crash rated bollards provide protection that surpasses what standard bollards or other perimeter security measures can offer. These bollards act as a powerful physical barrier to prevent unauthorised vehicles from accessing sensitive areas. This way, crash rated bollards protect people and property from potential harm.
2. Suitable for Different Environments
An important advantage of crash rated bollards is their versatility. These security solutions can be deployed in a wide range of environments, from government buildings and military installations to public spaces and commercial properties.
Crash rated bollards come in various types, including:
- Fixed bollards offer permanent protection. They’re ideal for locations requiring constant high-security measures.
- Removable bollards allow authorised vehicle access when needed while maintaining a high level of security at other times.
- Retractable bollards offer the best of both worlds. They provide quick and easy vehicle access control without compromising on security.
Does Versatility Include Aesthetics?
Macs Bollards offers crash rated bollards in different materials to suit various aesthetic requirements. This includes steel and stainless steel. You can easily integrate these bollards into any environment without detracting from the overall appearance of the site.
3. Enhanced Pedestrian Safety
Crash rated bollards have the dual function of preventing vehicle intrusion and enhancing pedestrian safety. By creating a clear delineation between vehicular and pedestrian areas, bollards guide foot traffic and provide a safe zone for people to walk.
For example, crash rated bollards can create pedestrianised zones in busy urban environments. Their presence protects people from accidental vehicle incursions and potential terrorist attacks simultaneously. This safety and security duality makes crash rated bollards an invaluable part of modern urban planning and security infrastructure.
Can You Customise Crash Rated Bollards?
Bollards can be designed with additional features to further enhance pedestrian safety. For example, some of our bollards come with integrated lighting to improve visibility and safety in low-light conditions. We also offer bollards with reflective strips, making them more visible to drivers and pedestrians.
4. Contribute to a Comprehensive Security Solution
Crash rated bollards work in conjunction with other security measures such as:
- CCTV
- Access control systems
- Security personnel
Together, these measures create a comprehensive security solution. Bollards form a physical barrier against vehicle-borne threats, while other security measures focus on different aspects of site protection.
For instance, you choose to integrate crash rated bollards with vehicle access control systems. The control system helps you to provide selective entry to authorised vehicles while the bollards maintain a high level of perimeter security. This integration of physical barriers with electronic security systems creates a strong yet flexible security infrastructure.
5. Long-Term Cost-Effectiveness
The initial investment in crash rated bollards may be higher than standard bollards. However, they offer significant long-term cost-effectiveness.
Less Maintenance
The durability and strength of crash rated bollards mean they require less frequent replacement and maintenance than standard bollards. This helps to reduce ongoing costs.
Reduced Insurance
The level of protection offered by crash rated bollards can potentially reduce insurance premiums for the protected site. Property owners may be able to negotiate better insurance terms by demonstrating a commitment to solid security measures.
Peace of Mind
Perhaps most importantly, crash rated bollards offer invaluable peace of mind. The potential costs associated with a security breach – property damage, liability, and loss of life – far outweigh the investment in high-quality security infrastructure. By choosing crash rated bollards, site owners proactively invest in long-term security and safety.
Upgrade Your Security with Crash Rated Bollards Today
Crash rated bollards are an essential part of modern security infrastructure. Their ability to withstand significant impacts, versatility in different environments, contribution to pedestrian safety, integration with comprehensive security solutions, and long-term cost-effectiveness make them an invaluable asset for any site requiring high-level security.
Partnering with Macs Bollards
Macs Bollards is committed to providing top-quality crash rated bollards that meet the highest security standards. Our range of products can be tailored to meet your specific security needs. Whether you’re protecting a government building, securing a public space, or enhancing the safety of a commercial property, our crash rated bollards offer the robust protection you need.
For more information about our crash rated bollards and how they can enhance your site security, please contact our team of security experts.
Macs Automated Bollard Systems Ltd specialise in the nationwide supply of automatic rising bollards. Our experts keep the Macs Bollards blog updated with all the latest bollard news!