Expandable Barricades vs Steel Barricades. When to Use One or the Other
Expandable barricades and steel barricades are two popular types of crowd control barriers that serve different purposes. Choosing the right type of barrier for your event or venue is important to ensure the safety and comfort of attendees, while also fulfilling regulatory requirements. In this article, we will compare expandable barricades vs steel barricades, the features and benefits of both, and discuss when to use each type.
Expandable barricades are lightweight and mobile barricades often made of materials such as plastic or aluminum. These barricades include a unique expanding length that can extend up to 16 feet or retract down to 1 foot. They are also equipped with wheels and interlocking ends that can be connected to create a barricade of any desired length quickly. Expandable barricades are commonly used in indoor environments such as airports, museums, and retail stores to section off areas or create temporary queues. In short, expandable barricades are lightweight, easy to locate, and can be stored easily in any location.
On the other hand, steel barricades are made of heavy-duty galvanized steel, and feature a variety of different feet options to make them suitable for any situation. They are commonly used in outdoor environments, such as festivals, parades, and construction sites, to control the flow of pedestrians or vehicles, and prevent unauthorized access. Steel barricades are durable, weather-resistant, and can be linked together to form longer runs or complex configurations.
When to use expandable barricades:
Temporary events: Expandable barricades are ideal for events that require a temporary barrier, such as trade shows, conferences, or product launches. They can be easily transported and set up and can be removed or reconfigured as needed.
Indoor environments: Expandable barricades are well-suited for indoor environments, where space is limited, and the risk of damage or injury is lower. They can be used to create temporary queues, block off areas under construction, or direct foot traffic.
Storage Concerns: Expandable barricades are the ideal option when storage could be an issue. With the ability to contract to as small as 1 foot in length, the expandable barricade can easily be stored anywhere.
When to use steel barricades:
Large outdoor events: Steel barricades are ideal for large outdoor events, such as concerts, festivals, or sports games, where large crowds are expected. They provide a strong and durable barrier that can withstand the pressure of a crowd and prevent surges or stampedes.
Crowd control: Steel barricades are designed to control the flow of pedestrians or vehicles and prevent unauthorized access. They can be used to create perimeter security, prevent line cutting, or direct traffic.
Harsh Conditions: Steel barricades are designed for rougher conditions compared to expandable barricades. Because they are much more durable, they are ideal for places such as construction sites, industrial facilities, or parking lots. They can also be anchored to the ground to provide a secure and more permanent barrier, while also deterring theft or vandalism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between expandable barricades and steel barricades depends on several factors, such as the type of event or venue, the level of crowd control required, and the budget and time constraints. Expandable barricades are ideal for temporary and indoor events, where flexibility is important, while steel barricades are best for large outdoor events, where crowd control and durability are paramount. Whatever your needs, choosing the right type of barricade will ensure the safety and satisfaction of your attendees, while also meeting regulatory requirements and enhancing your brand image.
