Barriers are used on the construction site to keep employees safe from speeding cars, especially if the construction is along the road. It also keeps people away from areas that are dangerous and may cause accidents. There are various materials available for barriers, and one of the most popular is concrete. Also called a jersey barrier, a concrete barrier is a precast steel-reinforced concrete slab to help ensure safety on the construction site. This material has its advantages and disadvantages, which we listed below. Get to know more about them to determine if they are the best option for you.
Precast Concrete Barriers Pros
- They are long-lasting. Concrete is a sturdy material that can withstand the elements. Expect your precast concrete barriers to last for a long period, which means savings on your part. Using less-sturdy barriers would be expensive in the long run, because you need to quickly replace them. It’s something that you don’t have to worry about with concrete because it’s proven to last long.
- They are robust. High-quality precast concrete is strong, so it can effectively stop speeding vehicles from crashing into the site and damaging the property. It’s one of the reasons why they are popularly used as barricades for securing construction sites and even unused properties. Other materials can be easily knocked down and serve more as a warning for people passing by to keep out of the area.
- They keep construction workers safe. As mentioned, one of the uses of concrete barriers is to keep the construction workers safe from speeding cars. There is a risk the vehicles may crash into the site if the construction is along the road or a highway. Without concrete barriers, vehicles could hurt or injure your men. You will spend more because of the medical expenses, and there will be a delay in completing the project.
- They are easily available. Concrete barriers are popular choices, so they are readily available when you need them. You also have the option to buy or hire them. Depending on your needs, you can choose between the two. They are also available in varying sizes and prices to better suit your requirements and budget.
Precast Concrete Barriers Cons
- They are heavy. These barriers are made of solid concrete, thus making them heavy. It makes them challenging to transport and move around. You will need the appropriate vehicle and machine for that.
- They take time to install and remove. It’s also connected to the fact that they are heavy. It takes time to install these barriers since they are difficult to manoeuvre. Uninstalling also takes time.
- They have low visibility. Unless you paint them with bright colours, precast concrete barriers are plain grey. It makes them less visible compared to plastic barriers that often come in bright orange. People may bump into them, or cars may crash into them, especially during the night, if they do not see them.
Consider the pros and cons of concrete barriers to determine if they are the best choice for you. If you decide to go for concrete barriers, go for precast instead of building them on-site, especially if you want convenience. You will also save time since they are pre-made.