Answering your Bollard Post Concerns

There have been several reported cases in which citizens raised concerns about the use of bollard posts in public places. From restricting wheelchair access, to being crashed into, these concerns may not take into account the whole picture. In reality, these traffic barrier posts can be lifesavers, and when properly implemented, can protect property and investments. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) is currently developing standards for bollards as a result of research touting the ability of bollards to protect and prevent injurious accidents and property damage. In some places, buildings are implementing bollards as anti-terrorism strategies. Check out our traffic safety bollard post news page for stories regarding the effective use of bollard posts and more posts promoting the use of these vehicle barriers.

Concerns and Responses

Here are some of the common concerns and realities concerning bollard posts: Concern: They put disabled persons at a disadvantage. Response: As long as those who install bollards are following the guidelines set forth by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), people who are wheelchair bound should not be restricted from areas. Concern: Bollards damage vehicles. Response: The reality is that they are placed where people should not be driving. Drivers will only come into contact with a bollard if they are off the prescribed traffic route. Most of the time, colliding with a bollard is much better than the alternative of driving into a storefront or person. Additionally, most bollards are designed to be highly visible to avoid unnecessary or damaging contact. Concern: Bollards have no place in pedestrian and biking trails. Response: Trails are generally only fitted with bollards if there is a threat of vehicle traffic in a restricted area. If you encounter a bollard post in the middle of a trail that is primarily used for biking or walking, it is likely to prevent the use of the trail by joyriding vehicles that have tried to use the path for purposes other than its original intent. Many times a driver, bicyclist, or pedestrian may not know the full story for placing traffic barrier posts in certain areas. However, bollards are an effective solution for areas where vehicles and unwanted traffic present a real hazard.