Choosing the Right Bollards: Automatic vs. Fixed for Security and Access Control

Learn how bollards help improve your security and access control in a cost effective way, and which bollard is right based on your specific situation. 

Introduction

Bollards are an essential and cost-effective way of protecting facilities, managing traffic, and ensuring pedestrian safety. Whether you manage a bustling commercial area, a sensitive high-security site, or a mixed-use development, selecting the right bollard type is critical to achieving your security goals.

In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing between automatic and fixed bollards, their applications, and how to make the best decision for your facility.

Table of Contents

1. What Are Bollards?
2. Why Bollards Are Essential for Facility Security
3. Fixed Bollards: Overview
4. Automatic Bollards: Overview
5. Factors to Consider When Choosing Bollards for Your Facility
6. Key Differences Between Automatic and Fixed Bollards
7. How to Choose the Right Bollard for Your Case

What Are Bollards?

Bollards are sturdy vertical posts used to protect facilities, regulate vehicle access, and enhance pedestrian safety in a non-obstructive way. Available in various forms—including fixed, removable, and automatic—bollards can serve a range of purposes depending on their design and functionality.

Common Applications

• Commercial Areas: Protect storefronts from smash and grab thefts, manage traffic, and safeguard pedestrians.
• High-Security Zones: Secure government facilities, military bases, and other sensitive areas from potential crash attacks or accidents.
• Public Spaces: Prevent vehicle intrusion in pedestrian zones or event spaces.

For more information about bollard types and uses, explore EL-GO Team’s comprehensive range of solutions.

Why Bollards Are Essential for Facility Security

Bollards play a critical role in modern facility management by:

• Protecting Assets: Preventing vehicle-ramming attacks or accidental damage to property.
• Ensuring Safety: Controlling traffic flow and safeguarding pedestrians in high-traffic areas.
• Enhancing Security: Acting as a deterrent against unauthorized vehicle access.

Whether in a busy commercial district or a high-risk security area, bollards provide peace of mind and long-term protection.

Automatic Bollards: Overview

Automatic bollards can be either retractable or sliding.

Automatic bollards are versatile and adaptable, rising and retracting as needed to provide controlled access. Powered by hydraulic or electric systems, they offer a blend of functionality and modern design.

Key Features

• Operated via remote controls, sensors, or access systems.
• Designed to blend seamlessly into modern architectural environments.
• Suitable for areas requiring frequent or temporary access adjustments.

Ideal Use Cases

• Gated communities and secure entrances.
• Event spaces or delivery zones with dynamic access needs.
• High-security facilities requiring strict access control.

Automatic bollards are an excellent solution for facilities needing flexibility without compromising on security.

Fixed Bollards: Overview

Fixed bollards are permanent installations designed for high-impact resistance and minimal maintenance. Anchored deep into the ground, they provide reliable protection for a wide range of environments.

Key Features

• Constructed from durable materials such as steel or concrete.
• Available in decorative or utilitarian designs to suit various settings.
• Often installed in high-traffic areas for constant protection.

Ideal Use Cases

• Storefronts and pedestrian walkways.
• Parking lots and perimeter security for businesses.
• Industrial zones requiring heavy-duty protection.

Fixed bollards are a cost-effective and durable choice for facilities prioritizing permanent security solutions.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Bollards for Your Facility

When selecting bollards for your facility, it’s important to evaluate several key factors to
ensure they meet your security, operational, and aesthetic needs. These considerations are
crucial for making an informed decision.

Key factors include:

• Security Needs
• Access Control
• Aesthetic Integration
• Durability and Impact Resistance
• Budget
• Maintenance and Longevity
• Environmental Factors

For a comprehensive breakdown of these factors, please check out out blog for more information.

Key Differences Between Automatic and Fixed Bollards 

Each of the factors above impacts how fixed and automatic bollards perform in specific contexts. Below is a deeper comparison:

Security Needs

• Fixed Bollards: Provide consistent, permanent protection, suitable for moderate to high-security needs.
• Automatic Bollards: Offer flexibility with the same level of security when deployed.

Access Control

• Fixed Bollards: Ideal for static, unchanging access requirements.
• Automatic Bollards: Enable dynamic control, perfect for gated or multi-use facilities.

Maintenance

• Fixed Bollards: Minimal upkeep; primarily involves cleaning and inspecting for rust.
• Automatic Bollards: Requires regular system checks and potential part replacements.

Aesthetic Options

• Fixed Bollards: Often available in more decorative designs.
• Automatic Bollards: Sleek and modern, suitable for contemporary architecture.

Cost

• Fixed Bollards: Lower upfront cost and long-term expenses.
• Automatic Bollards: Higher initial cost, with ongoing maintenance adding to total ownership expenses.

Comparison Summary Table

How to Choose the Right Bollard for Your Case

Selecting the right bollard ultimately depends on the unique requirements of your facility. In addition to the factors outlined, you may also need to consider:

• Crash Ratings: High-security areas often require crash-rated bollards (e.g., K12), while K4/M30 equivalent ratings are suitable for most other locations. 
• Traffic Flow: Facilities with heavy vehicle use may benefit from automatic bollards for smoother operations.
• Custom Solutions: Some environments require bespoke bollard designs to meet specific aesthetic or functional needs. 

At EL-GO Team, we specialize in providing tailored bollard solutions for every requirement. Whether you need fixed or automatic bollards, our team can help you find the perfect match for your facility.

Secure your facility today with tailored solutions from EL-GO Team. Contact us now or explore our bollard range to get started.