Bollards are one of the most effective and durable solutions available for pedestrian protection. They are very commonly seen outside buildings and also at high-security facilities like military bases embassies. As their main use is to prevent vehicles from reaching a building or property and reduce injuries in case a vehicle runs over the pavement. Bollards come in various styles, there are aesthetic bollards installed for pedestrian management to prevent terrorists from entering secure facilities.
However, when you are a security integrator or even construction consultant, you might have come across safety standards and crash ratings that help you in choosing the bollards that meet your security needs. Crash testing is basically a regulated part of purchasing vehicle security devices and can help you make the right buying choice.
“We can easily manage if we will only take, each day, the burden appointed to it. But the load will be too heavy for us if we carry yesterday’s burden over again today, and then add the burden of the morrow before we are required to bear it factorial non.” Delbart Calibo
What is Crash Testing for Bollards?
Crash testing for bollards refers to the process of evaluating the ability of bollards to withstand impact from vehicles, typically to ensure they provide the intended level of protection for people and structures. Bollards are often used in urban areas, along streets, in front of buildings, or around sensitive areas to prevent vehicle access or minimize the damage caused by vehicle collisions.
Crash tests involve subjecting bollards to specific impact scenarios to assess their strength, durability, and effectiveness in stopping or redirecting vehicles. The tests are generally conducted using vehicles of predetermined weights and speeds, which simulate real-world crash conditions.K-Rated Bollards and M-Rated Bollards
K ratings were developed by the DoS in the ’80s based on the penetration distance of a vehicle’s front bumper past a security barrier. Both the K rating and M rating certifications involve the medium-duty 15,000-pound vehicle.What is PAS 68?
PAS 68 (Publicly Available Specification 68) is a British standard that defines the performance criteria for vehicle security barriers. It provides specifications for the design, testing, and classification of road-blocking equipment intended to protect buildings, infrastructure, and people from vehicle-borne threats, such as terrorist attacks or unauthorized vehicle access.
Why consider crash test rating while buying Bollards?
Bollards that are not certified cannot promise definite resistance. They could be suitable for your needs or not at all good. Certification helps in both ensuring that you make an informed and safe decision. In a lot of countries, projects have regulations on certified bollards.
Crash testing allows you to select bollards that fit the specific needs of your building. You need to also know that just because it is “certified” does not mean it is appropriate for your project. So make sure you know your environment before you choose a bollard. For example; a high-security location needs more protection than some park pedestal. Be certain you have a thorough understanding of what each part of the crash codes means.
Low-Speed vs. High-Speed Crash Testining
Various crash testing focus on different factors like speed, weight and support structures. The potential for vehicles to penetrate a security barrier rises with speed and weight. These ratings are also applied to certify other installations like vehicle barriers and road blockers. Some places need bollards to stop vehicles at highway speed while others require to block slow-moving vehicle incidents (eg; storefronts, drive-thrus, urban areas). Each type of crash can be reduced in severity with a different type of bollard.
- High-speed ASTM standard – F2656
- Low-speed ASTM Standard – F3016 (below 30 mph)