Efficient traffic management is crucial for maintaining high safety standards in public and private spaces, especially when it comes to managing traffic flow in 2024. Flexible bollards offer a versatile and practical solution and have become increasingly important in this regard. Suitable for a variety of environments such as, public car parks, business premises and roadways, they offer several advantages in controlling and directing vehicle and pedestrian traffic across Ireland.
The Role of Flexible Bollards in Traffic Management
Flexible bollards are designed to offer a balance between visibility, durability, and versatility, making them essential for almost all modern traffic control systems in Ireland. The flexible nature of bollards means they can absorb some impacts without the need to constantly replace or repair them. The bright or hi-vis nature of most flexible posts means they can effectively delineate an area, direct traffic and instantly improve traffic flow.
Safety and Visibility
Flexible bollards can create an instant boost to safety in any traffic management system. While they are readily available in almost any colour, most flexible posts utilise reflective markings to make them highly visible in both day and night conditions. This visibility is crucial in reducing the risk of accidents and providing easier navigation for drivers and pedestrians alike. The more noticeable the bollards the better they can be at directing traffic.
Durability and Maintenance
Flexible bollards are generally built to withstand harsh weather conditions and the wear and tear of everyday use. The majority of flexi bollards are made from plastic or rubber, although steel is often used for heavy duty requirements in warehouses. Flexi posts will bend on impact to absorb impact damage to the vehicle and the post itself. Aside from cosmetic scratches or chips, flexible bollards require much less replacement or repairs and thus are much more cost-effective.
The Flexbrite™ range, for example, is one of the best plastic bollard options for car parks. Made form 100% polyurethane, the bollards are made for outdoor use and have excellent UV resistance for reduced colour fading and cracking. This greatly reduces the need for constant maintenance or replacement.
It is always important to note that some bollards are rated for highway and off-highway use. Highway rated bollards, like the Impact Recovery Systems® range, are thoroughly tested for use on motorways where vehicles are travelling at high speeds. In general they are designed to receive several impacts from vehicles at higher speeds before they need to be repaired or replaced.
Versatility for All Applications
Flexible bollards are the most adaptable option for a wide range of traffic management needs. Lightweight designs mean a faster installation in any indoor or outdoor area, suitable for both permanent and temporary traffic setups. Their versatility allows them to meet most changing requirements, both in closed and public settings where vehicles and/or pedestrians are concerned. Their hi-vis design means they can direct or deny traffic into an area.
Flexible bollards are already widely used across Britain in -
- Car park management
- Road traffic management
- Cycle lane infrastructure
- Industrial spaces
Streamlining Traffic Flow
Streamlining traffic flow is essential for better safety and efficiency in traffic management. Flexible bollards contribute significantly to this by:
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Managing car parks: flexi posts can mark car parking spaces and boundaries, helping to organise car parks efficiently and prevent car accidents. Use the bollards to delineate individual spaces,deny entry into out of bounds areas, or protect nearby assets or infrastructure from impact damage.
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Protecting pedestrian zones: Flexible bollards create safe walkways in mixed traffic areas, providing a physical barrier between vehicles and pedestrians. The bollards help with guiding drivers safely through an area while separating them from pedestrians. They are also highly effective for cycle lanes on public roads and in protecting public ev chargers.
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Directing Traffic Movement: They guide vehicles along preferred routes, minimising confusion and congestion, especially in high-traffic areas. Flexible bollards can be used for lane separation, roundabout delineation, and entrance/exit delineation.
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Restricting Unauthorised Access: By demarcating restricted areas, flexible bollards prevent unauthorised vehicle entry, enhancing security and control within the area.
Flexible bollards are more than just traffic control devices; they are integral components of effective traffic management. By implementing these versatile tools, facility managers and local authorities can significantly improve the safety, efficiency, and organisation of traffic flow, contributing to smoother, more controlled environments in 2024.
