Prevent accidents with impact barriers and bollards

How impact protection systems can prevent heavy machinery accidents

Although heavy machinery is an integral part of the warehouse and logistics industry, they also pose a whole host of risks and hazards to employees as well as property. Luckily, there are several ways in which you can mitigate these risks. One of the main ways in which you can prevent heavy machinery accidents is by implementing impact protection systems. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of impact protection systems and how they can make a real difference to your working environment!  

What are impact protection systems?

Before we touch on how different impact protection systems can prevent machinery accidents, you might be wondering what they are! Essentially, the purpose of impact protection systems is to minimise the risk of collissions and accidents by providing a physical barrier between machinery and people, property and other equipment. These systems are designed to absorb and redirect the energy generated during collissions which, as a result, minimises damage and reduces the severity of accidents. If you’re convinced that impact protection systems are needed in your workplace, look no further than Axelent’s X-Protect range.

The different types of impact protection systems

There are different products that fall under the umbrella of ‘impact protection’. Here are a list of different impact protection systems and how they can help to prevent heavy machinery accidents! 

Impact barriers

One of the main types of impact protection systems is the impact barrier. This barrier is effective in preventing heavy machinery accidents because it acts as a barrier between moving machinery and workers, equipment and other equipment in the workplace. Impact barriers are also available in a range of different configurations too. For instance, you can choose impact barriers that cover the ground level which are ideal for segregating light weight vehicles. There is also the option to go for double impact barriers, which protects structures from heavy duty impacts. 

Floor barriers

If you’re looking for a system that protects the lower parts of your perimeter wall and infrastructure from heavy machinery, then the floor barrier could be the perfect fit for you and your warehouse environment. This type of impact protection system is effective in high-traffic areas such as loading docks, assembly lines, and storage areas where the risk of accidents is heightened.

Pedestrian barriers

Protecting workers and employees is important in any workplace environment, especially when there is heavy machinery involved. Pedestrian barriers create a physical boundary between pedestrian walkways and where machinery operates, which clearly signposts where people can and cannot go in a working environment. This piece of equipment is usually installed on walkways and entry points to restricted areas, allowing you to effectively prevent workers from entering hazardous zones. 

Impact bollards

Similarly to the other types of impact protection systems, impact bollards are effective because they serve as a physical barrier against collissions. If you’re considering investing in an impact bollard, it’s important to make sure that it is both durable and easy to see. If you’re a forklift driver, you want to be able to see any obstacles that may be in your way. With that in mind, having an impact bollard in a bright and bold colour can be beneficial because it clearly signposts that there is an impact protection system in place. When it comes to material, you want to look for a bollard that has a ductile and iron rubber core, because this is effective when it comes to absorbing impact. 

Column guards

While we have touched on the protection of workers and pedestrians, impact protection systems are also useful when it comes to protecting the infrastructure of the working environment. The main purpose of column guards is to wrap around columns, cushion any impact and shield them from damage. 

Why invest in impact protection? 

Now that we have delved into the different types of impact protection products and how they can prevent heavy machinery accidents, you might be wondering what other benefits they can offer!

• Preventing costly damage – Warehouses are filled with valuable assets, and they can be very expensive to replace or repair. By investing in impact protection systems, you can have confidence that your equipment is kept at bay from any potential collisions. 
• Employee safety – As aforementioned, employee safety should be at the top of your priority list when it comes to warehouse operations. Equipment such as pedestrian barriers not only reduces the likelihood of accidents but also promotes a culture of safety within the workplace environment, where employees feel protected and valued. 
• Improve productivity & workplace efficiency - By strategically placing barriers and guards, managers can create designated areas for specific tasks, ensuring that equipment and personnel can operate without interference or safety concerns. This minimises disruptions, streamlines operations, and enhances overall productivity.

Consider impact protection systems for your warehouse 

As we have discussed, impact protection systems play a critical role in preventing heavy machinery accidents and ensuring the safety of workers. Whether it's through the installation of impact barriers, pedestrian barriers, or floor barriers, these systems provide essential protection against collisions and mitigate the potential consequences of accidents. By prioritising safety and investing in effective impact protection measures, companies can create safer workplaces, protect their employees, and reduce the risk of costly accidents.