Two Important Checks to Safeguard Against Vehicle Impact Risks
When it comes to safety impact barriers and bollards, it's easy to fall into the trap of assuming that they all serve the same purpose and offer similar levels of protection. Even though there are metal and polymer products, at a casual glance, many barriers do appear quite similar, and their primary role seems straightforward: to provide safety and protection. However, this common misconception can be misleading and potentially hazardous. The reality is that not all barriers are created equal, and their performance can vary significantly.
The Variability in Protection
One of the critical factors to consider when evaluating safety barriers is the level of protection they provide. The truth is, there is a considerable range in the effectiveness of different barriers. Some may excel in specific applications, offering robust protection against particular types of impacts, while others may fall short in the same scenarios. Therefore, making an informed decision about which barrier solution to choose becomes crucial.
The Challenge of Unverified Data
Adding to the complexity of the decision-making process is the fact that many barriers lack adequate if any testing data, or their test results remain unverified. This poses a significant challenge for those tasked with selecting the right barrier to mitigate specific risks effectively. Without reliable data on a barrier's performance, how can you be sure it will do its job when it matters most?
Key Criteria for Choosing the Right Barrier
To navigate this maze of barrier options effectively and choose the solution that best aligns with your safety needs, consider the following essential criteria:
1. PAS 13 Testing Guidance
Has the barrier undergone rigorous testing in accordance with PAS 13 guidance? PAS 13, developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI), serves as the gold standard for barrier testing. PAS 13 is the only code of practice for industrial safety barriers that is recognised globally. It is intended to be used as a reference for engineers, architects, contractors, health and safety professionals, and other stakeholders involved in the design, construction, deployment and maintenance of safety barriers. The code is based on the principles of risk assessment and recommends selecting the appropriate safety barriers based on the potential hazards and risks.
Compliance with PAS 13 can help ensure that safety barriers are effective in protecting people and assets from potential hazards and minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.
2. Third-Party Verification
Is the barrier's test data independently verified by a reputable third party? It's crucial to remember that self-assessment is not a reliable approach when it comes to safety. Independent verification ensures the integrity of the data and adds an extra layer of trustworthiness.
Empowering Your Safety Decisions
Armed with this critical information, you can make more confident decisions when selecting a barrier solution. Knowing that a barrier has undergone rigorous testing and its data is independently verified can provide you with the assurance you need to safeguard your people, assets, and business interests effectively.
Rack Group: Your Trusted Safety Partner
At Rack Group, our barriers undergo PAS 13 testing and hold third-party accreditation by TüV Nord, an internationally recognised test house, ensuring that they meet the highest safety standards. We understand that choosing the right impact barrier solution can be a complex process, and we're here to help. If you have any questions or need expert advice on designing a barrier solution that addresses your specific risks, don't hesitate to reach out to our team.
In conclusion, when it comes to safety barriers, appearances can be deceiving. Not all barriers are the same, and their performance can vary significantly. To make the right choice, focus on reliable testing data and third-party verification, and you'll be on the path to safety and protection that truly delivers. Safety - Simplified!