Bollards are short but thick posts that you usually see in the streets and other public places. The word “bollard” is derived from “bole”, a Middle English word which means “tree trunk.” These posts were only used in securing ships to the wharf along with ropes. However, their use has changed over the years, evident in their existence in the streets, parking lots, landmarks, building surroundings, and other spaces. They are considered as among the most common street furniture.

Reasons for Using Bollards

Architects and building designers have seen the potentials of the bollards to be more than just mere traffic controls, for which they are commonly used. Now, they can be seen as any of the following:

– yellow poles that keep you at a certain distance from the drive-thru window

– posts that serve as flexible guards while you manoeuvre out of a parking garage into oncoming traffic

– security barriers that stop you from driving on the part of the road that is meant for pedestrians

– standoffs that keep off the pedestrian traffic and any vehicle from building entrances

These bollards are now used for asset protection, perimeter definition, security, and landscaping. This is why they are commonly installed in sidewalks, concrete roads, gardens and paved areas.

Types of Bollards

There are several types of bollards to choose from which can be used for several purposes. They include:

– Fixed. These are installed permanently and are commonly used for security purposes. They are made of solid strong materials and securely installed to protect buildings and other properties. Areas where bombings and other acts of terrorisms are a huge concern usually use these fixed posts. There are also fixed decorative bollards which can secure properties and enhance the surroundings of the buildings being guarded. The posts can be decorative in themselves or they can have a decorative cover to improve their aesthetics.

– Retractable. These are usually installed in an upright position, but they can be hidden back into the ground. These are space saving bollards which are usually used in fire lanes and other spaces where vehicles are not usually allowed but access might be necessary during emergency. Some places are those which can grant access to maintenance, delivery or emergency vehicles. They are best used in providing quick access and are more convenient to use than removable posts.

– Removable. These are installed in the ground with a receiver. There are various receivers with other locking features. There are different receivers too depending on the purpose, which could be to install bollards for some events, seasons, and the like.

– Flexible. These are also installed in an upright position, but their most notable feature is their flexibility. Even when they are hit by a vehicle, they just spring back up once no other force is blocking their movement. These are commonly used in roadways, parking garages, pedestrian areas, and similar spaces. They appear just like any fixed bollards lining the streets and surrounding the buildings. However, they do not harm any vehicle that happens to crash into them.

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John from http://www.ypl-streetfurniture.co.uk

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