When it comes to warehouse safety, temporary barriers can be a game-changer. They are easy to move, you can deploy them quickly and designed to protect both people and assets from harm. But are you getting the right information about what types to use, and when to use them?

Many warehouse teams aren’t clear on what risks these barriers are meant to manage, where they should be used, or how to deploy them effectively. This can lead to using the wrong barrier, or none at all, leading to ineffective safety measures and wasted resources.

This article aims to answer your questions and address your concerns directly by debunking these eight myths about temporary barriers:

1. Temporary barriers are only for short-term use.
2. Temporary barriers aren’t as effective as permanent barriers.
3. Any temporary barrier will do.
4. Temporary barriers are too expensive.
5. Temporary barriers are difficult to set up and take down.
6. Temporary barriers are only for indoor use.
7. Temporary barriers aren’t necessary if we use safety cones.
8. Temporary barriers are a substitute for proper training.

By the end of this article, you will have the facts you need to help you make informed decisions about temporary barriers and how to use them.

Let’s get started.

What are temporary barriers?

Temporary barriers are physical dividers used in warehouse and construction sites to enhance safety and security by controlling access, protecting workers, and preventing unauthorised entry to hazardous areas. They are easily movable and designed for short-term use to manage access and protect areas during specific activities or events.

You’ll usually use temporary barriers to delineate work zones, restrict access to hazardous areas, and ensure the safety of workers and the public during construction or maintenance activities.

Images: Temporary barrier types: Skipper Cone Top Retractable Belt, Strongwall Barrier and Expanding Gate

Myth 1: Temporary barriers are only for short-term use

Reality: Some temporary barrier systems are durable enough to keep in place for the medium to long term (in lower-risk areas). The key is to choose the right type of barrier for the intended duration and environment.

For instance, if you want to add a pedestrian walkway in a low-risk area for forklift impact,  protective barriers can serve as a good long-term solution. If you need flexibility in your floor layout, permanent structures can’t be moved so a temporary barrier will be a better choice for you.

Myth 2: Temporary barriers are not as effective as permanent barriers

Reality: We know that permanent barriers provide strong physical protection in high-risk areas. But temporary barriers are also effective in certain situations. They give visual warnings, set up exclusion zones, and guide traffic flow. This can greatly lower the chance of accidents. The effectiveness does depend on proper selection, placement, and employee training.

Before choosing your barriers, make sure you do your risk assessment and identify your hazards. Then you can choose the correct type to manage the risk in your workplace. A lightweight temporary barrier in a busy forklift area won’t protect as well as a permanent flexible barrier.

But, if you have a low impact risk, a temporary barrier will do the job effectively.

Myth 3: Any temporary barrier will do

There are many types of temporary barriers. It is important to remember that each one is made for a specific purpose. Using the wrong type of barrier can be ineffective or even create new hazards. To ensure you use the right type you need to consider the level of protection needed, the environment, and the type of traffic.

For example, if you are creating a pedestrian walkway, you could use a retractable belt system in an area with few machines or forklifts. If you need something more robust, the Clearpath protective barrier has a unique anti-trip foot design helping it reduce rather than add to trip hazards, making it perfect for walkways.

Image: ClearPath barriers reducing trip hazards in a walkway

Myth 4: Temporary barriers are expensive

Reality: Temporary barriers can be a cost-effective solution compared to permanent barriers, especially when flexibility is required. They can be easily moved and reconfigured, reducing the need for costly construction or modifications. The cost-effectiveness depends on the specific barrier system and the duration of use.

Remember, up-front costs are not the only factor. You also need to consider operational downtime, injury costs and reduced morale if someone is injured.

Myth 5: Temporary barriers are difficult to set up and take down

Reality: Many temporary barrier systems are designed for quick and easy setup and takedown. They can be deployed in minutes by a single person, minimising disruption to operations.

Many portable barriers have interlocking modules that can be put together by one person. They can be stacked neatly when not in use, or have wheels and retractable belts, making them easy to set up and take down.

Myth 6: Temporary barriers are only for indoor use

Reality: Many temporary barrier systems are designed for outdoor use and can withstand harsh weather conditions. For example, barriers used in loading docks or external walkways should be wind and UV resistant to maintain visibility and effectiveness.  The weight of the barrier is important for windy areas or if you are planning on leaving them in place for an extended time. Some can be filled with water, increasing their weight and immovability.

Myth 7: Temporary barriers are not necessary if we have safety cones

Reality: While safety cones can be useful for marking hazards, they provide minimal physical protection. Temporary barriers offer more substantial protection and are more effective at preventing accidents.  By adding clear signs and effective training, temporary barriers are more effective at marking out safety or hazard zones.

Myth 8: Temporary barriers are a substitute for proper training and safety procedures

Reality: Temporary barriers can enhance safety, but they cannot replace proper training and safety procedures. Employees must know how to use the barriers correctly and how to work safely in the area.

Imagine you’ve put up ‘Restricted Personnel’ signs and cordoned off an area with a black and yellow retractable belt. It doesn’t stop someone ducking underneath and entering a dangerous area. If the same person knew what the safety zone was for and who was permitted in the area, they would be more likely to stay out and avoid harm.

You know the facts, now make them work for you

Now that you’ve seen the truth behind these eight myths, you’re in a stronger position to make informed safety decisions.

Temporary barriers aren’t just optional, they’re a critical part of your safety system when used correctly. If you’re not sure which solution fits your worksite, we can help you assess your risks and recommend a barrier system that matches your environment, operations and budget.

Don’t leave safety to chance. Contact us today for trusted advice and practical solutions that keep your people and traffic moving safely and efficiently on your work site.