Introduction
Elevator entrances, particularly those on the ground floor or in proximity to the exterior walls of a building, are weak spots in a building’s security. Crash-rated bollards are one such solution that’s being discussed more. But why does there need to be any protective barrier near elevator entrances? It begins with understanding what crash-rated bollards are and what risks they mitigate.
What Are Crash Rated Bollards?
Crash-rated bollards are reinforced steel posts, typically filled with concrete, that are intended to keep vehicles from penetrating secured areas; unlike decorative bollards, these adhere to the latest UAE standards. These ratings ensure the ability of the bollard to resist impacts from vehicles of different speeds and weight classes. Both are designed to bring a car to a stop or slow it down enough to deter entry or cause damage.
Why Elevator Doors A must to have in Jeopardy
Elevator lobbies near exterior walls or accessible driveway areas can be particularly at risk. Elevators with access to glass facades or parking structures are popular in high-traffic locales like hospitals, airports, or urban commercial centres. Intentionally or not, a vehicle could plow through soft spots to access elevator shafts or mechanical cores. It’s doubly so in lobbies that don’t offer much separation or elevation between streets and entrances.
Bollards Code or Rule Tangent
Indeed, building codes generally do not require bollards around elevator entrances. However, safety consultants and security engineers may specify them in riskier or more high-profile buildings. For example, government buildings, banks, other financial centres, and transportation centres might incorporate them into security designs. These circumstances are where the bollards are not a barrier to physical intrusion (it’s the second set of bollards, after all) but part of a comprehensive hostile vehicle mitigation (HVM) plan.
Architectural Design
The visual appearance of bollards is a typical complaint. But contemporary crash-rated bollards don’t have to clash with architectural aesthetics. They can be sheathed in stainless steel or coloured to blend with surroundings or hidden in planters. If you plan when designing, their installation doesn’t have to be so invasive.
Assessment of cost vs benefit
Bollards rated to crash standards are an expensive solution. Installation and, in some cases, the cost of foundation work is included in their price. Still, when balanced on the hypothetical scale against the possible destruction of a car socking into it, injuries, death, and damage to the structure, it can make sense. It comes down to risk and what risk they are willing to accept versus their financial and operational priorities.
When You Might Not Need Them
This does not mean all elevator entrances need crash-rated bollards. The need is less if you have elevators a long way into the building, shielded by walls, or well above street level. Structures with natural barriers, staircases, water features, or landscaping with sufficient bombs and bullet resistance may already have adequate protection. A sensible risk assessment from a certified security consultant can identify real risks.
Elevators open to foul water and ground-level elevators are subject to greater risk.
Elevator entrances at street level are more likely to be struck by a vehicle. When situated near parking areas or roadways, they are at risk for accidents and intentional hits. This is especially the case in busy urban environments. Elevator entrances are highly susceptible to damage or penetration without protection. Bollards offer a defence against these physical attacks.
Bollards in a Security Arsenal
It is important to remember that crash-rated bollards are not stand-alone security features. They are the most effective element of a more comprehensive security strategy. This might be security cameras, access points to buildings, and hardened buildings. Bollards are installed as the front line of defence to protect against vehicles. They are an excellent deterrent for a vehicle break-in.
Protection and maintenance in the long-term
Crash-rated bollards are going to be in place for 15-20 years. They are made to last through falls and years of use. But they require some maintenance. Bollards can become shabby-looking due to environmental strains. Regular inspections ensure that dock shelters are still helping to prevent vehicle impact.
Bollards And Public Safety
Elevator entrances with bollards are made safer for the public. Bollards can also be used in high-traffic areas, like hospitals or airports, to prevent people from getting accidentally hit. If a vehicle crashes into a bollard, the impact is absorbed, and pedestrians are safe. This added measure of security is beneficial to all those who live in and visit the building.
Alternatives for protection thinking cocktails
Although crash-rated bollards are successful, alternative protection measures may be worth considering. Another option for protection could be reinforced concrete walls, heavy landscaping, or natural barriers. A combination of these measures might provide security without the need for bollards. Considering all possibilities will give you the best protection for your building design.
Conclusion
Crash-rated bollards are a proven solution for guarding against vehicle threats. Although unnecessary for every building, they are becoming more applicable in today’s risk environment. They can also represent the difference between a weak hole in the perimeter and one that is secure and robust in sensitive or exposed areas.
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