Where should you install impact and crash barriers?

Impact barriers, also known as crash barriers, are typically installed in areas where there is a high risk of vehicular accidents.

Best Places to Install Impact and Crash Barriers  

Safety is a concern in any warehouse operation. One element of ensuring the safety of employees and the protection of assets is the strategic placement of safety crash barriers. These barriers not only prevent accidents but also safeguard sensitive equipment and workspaces. Consider installing them in the following locations:

• Face ends of racks
• Entry points of forklift truck aisles
• Around sensitive equipment near traffic routes
• At workplaces near traffic routes
• At the bottom end of slopes and ramps leading onto traffic lanes or workplaces
• In front of glass walls around office space on the shop floor

Face Ends of Racks  

Safety barriers placed at the face ends of racks serve a dual purpose. They protect valuable inventory and prevent rack damage in case of accidental collisions. Warehouse workers use forklifts and other equipment to access goods stored in racks. Placing barriers at the face ends prevents accidental collisions between equipment and racks, minimising damage, and injuries.

Ensure that the barriers do not obstruct the clear visibility of rack labels and inventory and that they are easily removable for rack maintenance or reconfiguration.

Entry Point of Truck Aisles  

Truck aisles are high-traffic areas in a warehouse where accidents can easily occur during loading and unloading. Safety barriers at entry points are crucial for preventing collisions between forklifts and trucks during the loading and unloading process, reducing the risk of vehicle damage and potential injuries to personnel.

Ensure that barriers do not impede the smooth flow of trucks entering or exiting the aisles, and they should be highly visible to truck drivers.

Entry Point of Truck Aisles  

Sensitive equipment, such as conveyor systems, is often placed near traffic routes for efficiency. However, they need protection to avoid costly damages and potential safety hazards. Safeguarding sensitive equipment from accidental collisions and protecting workers who may be operating or maintaining this equipment.

Make sure that barriers allow easy access to the equipment for maintenance and repair and that they do not obstruct workflow.

At Workplaces Near Traffic Routes  

Safety barriers around workplaces near traffic routes, such as packing and shipping stations, are essential for protecting workers from accidental collisions with mobile equipment, and creating a clear separation between workspace and traffic routes.

Ensure that Design barriers that do not hinder the efficient operation of these workspaces and consider accessibility for employees.

At the Bottom End of Slopes and Ramps Leading onto Traffic Lanes or Workplaces  

Slopes and ramps are prone to accidents, especially if they lead onto busy traffic lanes or workplaces. Safety barriers here are critical for preventing equipment or pallets from sliding uncontrollably down slopes, reducing the risk of collisions and accidents.

Ensure that the barriers are designed to handle the specific weight and momentum of items being moved down the slopes.

In Front of Glass Walls Around Office Space on the Shop Floor  

Many warehouses have glass-walled office spaces on the shop floor. Safety barriers are necessary for these areas. Preventing accidental collisions with glass walls, ensuring the safety of office occupants, and protecting the integrity of the walls themselves.

Ensure that the design barriers maintain a balance between transparency for natural light and the safety of the office space.

The Importance of Placement  

The placement of impact barriers should be based on a thorough assessment of the potential hazards that may be encountered by the staff at the workplace. Safety experts should be consulted to ensure that the barriers are placed in the most effective locations to prevent accidents and minimize the risk of damage on the facilities.

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