A bollard is a short vertical post, typically made of metal, wood, or concrete, that is used to create a barrier or obstruct pedestrians or vehicles. The word “bollard” comes from the Middle English word “bollarde,” which was derived from the Old French word “boulard,” which means “post.”
If you’ve ever strolled through an urban area, navigated a parking lot, or simply wondered what those sturdy posts lining sidewalks are, you’ve encountered a bollard. But what exactly are bollards, and why are they so important? Let’s dive into the world of these essential fixtures.
Bollards Definition: What Is a Bollard?
A bollard is a short, vertical post typically made of materials like metal, wood, or concrete. The primary purpose of a bollard is to create a barrier, either to obstruct vehicles or to protect pedestrians and buildings. The word “bollard” itself traces its origins to the Middle English word “bollarde,” which came from the Old French term “boulard,” meaning “post.”
Bollard Definition:
- a post of metal or wood on a wharf around which to fasten mooring lines
- chiefly British : any of a series of short posts set at intervals to delimit an area (such as a traffic island) or to exclude vehicles (via the English dictionary)
What is a Bollard? Here is Bollard History and Their Origins
What are bollards? A bollard is a sturdy, short, solid vertical post that helps control traffic and prevents vehicles from crashing into buildings. With our experience, these posts can be in many different colors and/or sizes.
I like classic orange bollard posts, but there are so many ways they can be used.
Although it was first described as a post or mooring bollard on a ship or quay used principally for mooring watercraft, the word is now used—primarily in British English—to describe heavy-duty posts installed in the ground to control road traffic & posts designed to prevent ram raiding and car ramming attacks.
Traffic Barrier Protection
Now, they are mostly used in front of businesses like restaurants and Wal-Marts in order to keep idiots, drunk people, and old people from accidentally slamming into buildings with their cars and harming or killing customers.
I see businesses all of the time that would benefit from getting bollards installed in front of their building in order to prevent future stupid accidents like the picture here:
I think that if bollards were installed in front of that retail space, then the car would not have crashed into the building.
Old Cannons as Bollards
From the 17th and 18th centuries, old cannons were often used as bollards on quaysides to help moor ships alongside.
Cannon Bollards
The cannons were buried in the ground muzzle-first to approximately half or two-thirds of their length, leaving the rear end projecting above ground for attaching ropes.
These cannons can still occasionally be found. Bollards from the 19th century were purpose-made, but often inherited a very similar “cannon” shape.
British English Early Traffic Bollards
Some of the earliest bollards were made from timber and wood; however as transportation changed from horses to motorized vehicles, it became clear that cast iron was a more suitable material.
Cast iron has a very high corrosion resistance and longevity, with excellent levels of durability.
I love these types of classic bollards, but cast iron can become expensive.
Wooden Barriers
Wooden post bollards were used for basic traffic management from at least the beginning of the 18th century.
One of the first well-known cases is that of the “two oak-posts” set up next to the medieval Eleanor cross at Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, in 1721—at the expense of the Society of Antiquaries of London—”to secure Waltham Cross from injury by Carriages”.
Similar bollards can be seen in many old, historic paintings and engravings.
Bollard Symbols
In the Netherlands, the Amsterdammertjes of Amsterdam were first erected in the 19th century. They became popular symbols of the city, but they are now gradually being removed and replaced with elevated sidewalks.
Modern-Day Bollards
Many people go about our daily lives without even realizing the role that bollards play in protecting us. It only takes a second for an evil vehicle to steer off a road and enter a pedestrian area…with potentially deadly results.
We do take notice when disaster is diverted by that short, heavy-duty post we’ve walked by a million times without a second thought.
Where Are Posts Usually Placed?
Bollards are often placed in areas like the corners of buildings, in front of building entrances, next to public phones, and beside mailboxes to protect against accidental vehicle impact.
When situated along roadways, they can prevent vehicles that overrun sidewalks from harming pedestrians. Bollards designed for safety reasons may be designed to fold, deflect impact, or break apart.
Determining the proper type of bollard suited to a location can be done by carrying out a comprehensive safety assessment.
What Other Types of Bollards Are There?
Some bollards are intended purely to be an ornament. As standalone architectural or landscaping features, they can border, divide, or define a space.
They can also be accents, sentries, or supporting players to larger, more dramatic architectural gesture.
Decorative bollards are manufactured to mix with both traditional & contemporary architectural styles.
The latter lean toward visual simplicity – often straight-sided posts with one or more reveals near the top.
Historic Bollard Periods
Styles made to match various historic periods usually have more elaborate shapes and surface details. These include flutes, bands, scrolls and other ornamentation.
The post-top is a distinctive feature; traditional bollard design often includes elaborate decorative finials, whereas contemporary versions frequently feature a simple rounded or slanted top to deter people from using them as a trash can or using them for impromptu seating.
On the other hand, they are sometimes made flat and broad specifically to encourage seating. Common decorative bollard materials include iron, aluminum, stainless steel, & concrete.
What Are Other Bollard Designs?
Ornamental designs with elaborate detail are frequently made of iron or aluminum casting.
Aluminum bollards are desirable for applications where weight is an issue, such as a removable bollard. Aluminum units tend to be slightly more expensive than iron.
For applications where a decorative bollard may be subject to destructive impact, ductile iron is a safer choice than more brittle metals, as force will deform the metal rather than shatter and transforming it into possible hazardous flying projectiles.
Bollard Definition and Purpose of Bollards
We hope this is enough information in order to understand the definition of what bollards are. They are majestic pieces of history that go ignored by the general public.
But we here at Bollards in Movies truly understand the significance of these magical traffic barrier posts.
What Are the Different Types of Bollards?
Bollards come in a wide range of types, each designed for specific applications. Understanding the different types of bollards can help in selecting the right one for your needs:
- Removable Bollards: These bollards can be easily removed and reinstalled, offering flexibility for areas where access may need to change, such as event spaces or emergency access routes.
- Surface Mounted Bollards: These are bolted to the surface rather than embedded in the ground, making them easier to install and remove but potentially less secure than embedded options.
- Fixed Bollards: Permanently installed, these bollards are designed to provide long-term security and are often used in high-traffic areas to protect pedestrians and buildings.
- Parking Bollards: Used in parking lots to define spaces and prevent vehicles from parking in restricted areas.
- Access Control Impact Energy Bollards: These are designed to stop vehicles by absorbing impact energy, making them ideal for high-security areas.
- Retractable Bollards: These bollards can be raised or lowered as needed, providing both access control and security.
- Steel Posts: Commonly used for their strength and durability, steel bollards are ideal for high-impact resistance.
- Pipe Bollards: A type of steel bollard, pipe bollards are often filled with concrete for added strength.
- Rebounding Bollards: Designed to flex upon impact, these bollards return to their original position, minimizing damage to vehicles and the bollard itself.
- Wooden Bollards: Often used for decorative purposes, wooden bollards add a rustic charm while still providing basic traffic management.
- Collapsible Bollards: Similar to retractable bollards, these can be folded down to allow vehicle access when needed.
- Concrete Bollards: Extremely robust, concrete bollards are often used in high-security applications where maximum impact resistance is required.
- Embedded Bollards: Installed deep into the ground, these bollards provide strong and permanent barriers.
- Plastic Bollards: Lightweight and often used for temporary barriers or traffic guidance, plastic bollards are less likely to damage vehicles.
- Flexible Bollards: These are designed to bend upon impact, reducing damage to both the bollard and the impacting vehicle.
- Decorative Bollards: These combine functionality with aesthetics, often featuring intricate designs to match the surrounding architecture.
- Steel Pipe Styles: A durable and versatile option, these bollards are often filled with concrete for added strength.
- Hydraulic Bollards: These are advanced retractable bollards that use hydraulic systems for raising and lowering, typically used in high-security areas.
- Car Park UK Barriers: Commonly found in UK car parks, these bollards are designed to manage vehicle access and parking.
Materials Used in Bollard Construction
The material of a bollard is chosen based on its intended function:
- Metal: Steel and iron are popular for their durability, especially in security applications.
- Concrete: These bollards are robust and commonly used where high-impact resistance is required.
- Plastic and Polyurethane: Ideal for areas requiring high visibility with minimal damage risk, these materials are often used for temporary or traffic bollards.
- Wood: Historically used for simpler traffic management, wooden bollards still serve decorative or symbolic purposes in some areas.
Bollard Placement and Impact on Urban Safety
Bollards are strategically placed to maximize safety and efficiency. You’ll often see them:
- At building corners to prevent vehicle impacts.
- Along sidewalks to protect pedestrians from vehicles.
- In front of entrances, public phones, and mailboxes to provide a clear barrier.
In areas prone to accidents or malicious attacks, a comprehensive safety assessment determines the most effective bollard placement and type.
Bollard Covers: Enhancing Aesthetics and Reducing Maintenance
Bollard covers are a practical solution for improving the appearance of bollards and reducing maintenance costs. These covers can be decorative or functional, adding color, branding, or additional protection to the bollards they encase.
Conclusion: The Unsung Heroes of Urban Safety = Bollards
Bollards are far more than just posts—they are crucial elements of urban safety and design. Whether they’re guiding traffic, protecting buildings, or simply adding a touch of beauty to a city street, bollards play an essential role in our daily lives. The next time you pass by a bollard, take a moment to appreciate its function and the safety it provides.
FAQs About Bollards
What are bollards, and why are they used?
Bollards are short, sturdy posts made from materials like metal or concrete. They are used to create barriers, guide traffic, protect buildings, and ensure pedestrian safety in urban environments.
How do bollards enhance safety in urban areas?
Bollards prevent vehicles from entering pedestrian areas or crashing into buildings, thus protecting people and property from accidents or malicious attacks. They are strategically placed to provide maximum safety and functionality.
Summary About Bollards
So, next time you see a bollard, you’ll know that it’s there to create a barrier or to mark the boundary of an area. And now you can tell all your friends what a bollard is!
One time I was watching the news about storefront crashes and it was funny when the new anchors pronounced them as BAH-llards. LOL!!!
i lock my bike up on a decorative bolard every day when i go to work. the bolard is outside the front door and a lot of people see it.
My brother always called these things “traffic barriers”. I had no idea they were called “bollards”. What a crazy strange world!
my neighbor had a weird obsession with these posts. in his backyard, there was a huge hole filled with bollards and pillows and his dog used to run around them in circles for hours. maybe the posts were mostly to keep his dog entertained while he binge-watched episodes of Murder, She Wrote starring the lovely Angela Lansbury.
Bollards are awesome. I am glad you put this great information about bollards all in one place.
I am wondering if I could use removable bollard barriers to protect my garage door from the neighbor kid constantly ramming his tricycle into my garage door. What revenge that would be. He just turned 3 years old, but he’s been a pain in my ass since he was born, constantly making small dents in my garage doors.
It’s crazy how common it is to notice bollards once you learn about them. I always notice them outside government buildings and stuff.
The power of bollards and what they can do is amazing. They protect people, places, and things. What they do is protect a lot of nouns.
I had no idea there was so much history about these things. Very interesting read. The perimeter of my university is surrounded by bollards to keep crazy people from ram-raiding the buildings.
I was watching an episode of The Wonder Years and I saw a traffic post in the background so I was wondering what the posts were actually called. I’m glad I came across this definition of bollards.
What kind of regulations are there for bollards? Do they have to withstand a certain weight vs. speed in accidents?
Thank you for reading about the history of bollards.
I’ve seen a lot of crazy videos on youtube where trucks and huge vehicles get totally destroyed by bollards. You should watch them, they are crazy!
Thank you for all of the comments. I love hearing how other people have experienced bollards.
I want to get bollards installed around the neighborhood playground with all these crazy people out there nowadays. Need to protect.
From the 17th and 18th centuries, old cannon were often used as bollards on quaysides to help moor ships alongside. The cannon would be buried in the ground muzzle-first to approximately half or two-thirds of their length, leaving the breech (rear end) projecting above ground for attaching ropes. Such cannon can still occasionally be found. Bollards from the 19th century were purpose-made, but often inherited a very similar “cannon” shape.
Did you know: A bollard is a short post that guides traffic, deters vehicle intrusions, and protects people and structures. Bollards act as visual guides, reminding drivers to drive safely and responsibly in certain areas. When installed for security, bollards also block vehicle impacts. Many bollards also have decorative elements that complement building and landscape designs.
Have you heard about…
Perimeter security is a concern for many cities, businesses, and government facilities. Protecting people from vehicle collisions with pedestrians, non-motorized vehicles and buildings has become a growing focus in recent years, especially given the rise of vehicle-building collisions. It is estimated that over 60 collisions between vehicles and buildings occur each day, causing over 500 deaths each year in the United States alone. This is an extremely concerning statistic for businesses and government facilities, as such accidents endanger their employees, buildings, operations and security efforts.
I think that’s great information. Now I am going to go shopping.
Traffic post winter is coming. Brace yourself. Hopefully you won’t crash too hard.
I saw all kinds if these barrier things at the zoo back in 2014. I spoke with a manager for about 3 hours about them. I guess they put them around the perimeter of the rhino cage because the rhinos enjoy backing up and running full speed into them.
I prefer traffic cones myself. Their rounded pyramid appearance is far more aesthetically pleasing than the cylinder. Sometimes when driving by a traffic cone I’ll stare in wonderment at its marvelous structure, until I almost wind up hitting the car or pedestrian in front of me. Not so with the traffic post.
I’ve seen the design of these posts look like a cannon, it was collapsible, and I could only define it as a London beauty. All the different types can rebound the ornamental, aluminum London materials when making these posts. What a great definition of architectural mailboxes. Great job!
One day back in 2010 I was walking around wondering, “What is a bollard?” Then out of nowhere, a bollard traffic post appeared and challenged me to an arm wrestling match. The barrier was so strong it snapped my arm off and I am now typing with my nose.
I think I ate too many cheese curds.
Whenever I eat tacos, I always think that safety needs to come first. Bollard posts can create the perfect perimeter around yourself to prevent bad people from entering your space and stealing your tacos.
Was there ever a sex scene in Star Wars? That would be funny if Princess Leia hit Jabba the Hutt with a traffic barrier.
Did you know the song Who Let the Dogs Out by the Baha Men was inspired by an incident involving bollards?
There was one night I was out wandering around my neighborhood when I saw a man drinking beer with a bollard. He would pour a beer over the top of the traffic barrier post, then he would shotgun a beer. After that, he smoked a cigarette and fully recited The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe. Then the acid I took wore of and I realized that man was a vision of myself 10 years ago and none of it actually happened.
Are bollards nude if they don’t have a sleeve and have they ever been featured in porn before?
This one guy I knew in college ate ghost peppers. But he would smash them into a sauce using a university bollard and a huge bowl. Then he would drink a half gallon of milk after putting the sauce in chili and eating it. And then he would run a 5k marathon the next day. Crazy guy.
I started dating this woman a few months ago and she asked me to meet her parents when things started getting a bit serious. So, I went to her house to have dinner with the folks. Imagine my surprise when I walked to the kitchen table and there sat in a chair, beside my gf’s father, a yellow removable traffic bollard. I asked my girlfriend why there was a bollard sitting in her mom’s place and where her mother actually was, but she just pointed at the traffic post and said, “That’s her. You just insulted her, by the way.”
Confused, I sat down and we all began talking, apart from the bollard mother. Sometimes my gf and her dad would bust out laughing at something she said, but they wouldn’t say what she said. I assumed she was making fun of me. Somehow this limbless bollard managed to cook a meal, too, even if her husband had to serve it. It was casserole. I never thought I would say this, but bollards make excellent casseroles.
A week after that the bollard mom died in a car accident (ironic, I know) and we had a funeral for her, complete with a bollard-shaped and -sized casket. The whole thing was strange, but she seemed nice, I guess. Considering I never heard her talk or knew what she said, I can’t really say much else about her other than that she was, well, a traffic post.
Ever just feel like whacking ppl in the head with a bolard? i do all the time. just whack whack whack away. hammer time? more lik bolard time.
How many traffic barrier posts would it take to secure an Olive Garden pasta dish from Hot Wheels cars? I would estimate at least 4 posts?
I once heard that Snoop Dogg bought residential bollards to put around his home back in 2004.
I was surrounding the perimeter of a tree house one day with some solid steel bollards and my neighbor asked what I was doing. I told him to mind his own business and then I ate 6 bowls of chili.
Instead of rolling a wheel of cheese down the hill at Cooper’s Hill Cheese Roll competition in Brockworth, England, they should roll down the hill chasing a bollard.
I wanted to thank you for helping me learn more about bollards. I didn’t know that some common materials for bollards would be stainless steel and concrete. I’m interested to learn if bollards are made differently based on what material will be used.
I am exhausted. I have been looking at pictures of ram-raiding preventative bollards for 32 hours straight. What day is it?
Back when I was in college I worked with a guy at Jimmy John’s who was cousins with the owner of the Miami Dolphins and he told me that he used to shave off pieces of traffic posts and put them in customer sandwiches. I wonder how many people have actually eaten parts of a bollard. He worked there for 3 years.
What? Who? Where am I? How did this happen?
I saved up my money for 4 months to buy my girlfriend an orange bollard for her birthday. I thought it would be funny to see her face as she opened the present. Turns out, she thought it was a massive dildo and broke up with me instantly.
I have always wondered if a world could ever exist where a group of cheetahs could gather together to start making bollards in a factory. Like, good bollards.
I didn’t even know what the shit a bollard was until now bro. I’d eat an f’n bollard for breakfast if it was made out of cream cheese.
Great, that’s great. Thank you for reading and learning about these traffic barriers online.
I drive up to restaurants and places of business sometimes and see that all there is between the customers and a car is a curb. Any car can accidentally drive up the sidewalk and through the glass front of the restaurant, accidentally killing people. Bollards should be mandatory at every business.
Maybe Christmas trees should be replaced with bollards. Then families would only have to invest a few hundred dollars for a single bolard that lasts forever and protects home ram attacks instead of a fire hazard death trap that real Christmas trees are.
I see these fing bollards everywhere. They are orange and red and blue and green and black and stone.
Its a really nice website. Thanks for giving full information about Hydraulic Automatic Bollards.
Bolards are crazy. They can destroy semi trucks and vans.
I saw a crash on the news into a store and the news anchor said there was a lack of security posts! I was like, “it’s called a bollard you idiot!!”
What the hell, I never really knew what a bollard was until I saw them in a dream. The fish tacos were great. The protection of the bollards and me not being smashed by a truck were greater. Who are you?
The purpose of bollards is very nice.
What are different types of barriers? And the material they are made from? Traffic control posts are the best invention ever made.
I love learning all the history of traffic control posts!
Lighted bollards looks so cool at night. They help keep the cars from crashing into my convenience store and llama rental service barn.
Bro, a bollard is a short, sturdy post that is used to create a barrier or to mark a boundary. Bollards are often used to protect buildings and pedestrians from vehicles. I see so many buildings and convenience stores that need bollards!!
Here is my meaning / definition of “what are bollards”, which I work with almost every day:
Bollards are short posts that are used to create barriers or delineate space. They are commonly used to protect buildings and pedestrians from vehicles, and they can be found in a variety of settings, from city streets to parking lots. Bollards can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, concrete, and plastic, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles.
Why did the bollard go to the gym? To become a buff-lard!