Security bollards are increasingly being installed in hospitals

Security bollards are increasingly being installed in hospitals to enhance safety and protect against various threats. Here’s why they are important and how they are used:

Purposes of Security Bollards in Hospitals:

1. Vehicle Ramming Attacks (Hostile Vehicle Mitigation - HVM)  

   - Prevent vehicles from intentionally crashing into hospital entrances, emergency departments, or crowded areas (e.g., in response to past terrorist attacks using vehicles).

   - Protect against accidental collisions from cars or trucks near pedestrian zones.

2. Pedestrian Safety  

   - Separate vehicle pathways from walking areas to prevent accidents.

   - Control traffic flow in parking lots, ambulance bays, and drop-off zones.

3. Perimeter Security  

   - Restrict unauthorized vehicle access to sensitive areas (e.g., helipads, utility entrances, or restricted zones).

   - Act as a visible deterrent against criminal activity (theft, vandalism, or violent intrusions).

4. Protection of Critical Infrastructure  

   - Shield gas lines, electrical units, or emergency generators from accidental or intentional damage.

5. Emergency Preparedness  

   - Help manage crowds during emergencies (e.g., pandemics, mass casualty incidents) by guiding foot traffic.

Types of Bollards Used in Hospitals:

- Fixed Bollards: Permanent, heavy-duty steel or concrete posts for high-security zones.  

- Removable/Retractable Bollards: Allow temporary access for emergency vehicles or deliveries.  

- Automatic Rising Bollards: Controlled via access cards or sensors for dynamic security.  

- Decorative Bollards: Provide subtle security while blending with hospital aesthetics.  

Key Installation Areas:

- Main Entrances & Emergency Departments (high pedestrian traffic)  

- Ambulance & Fire Lane Access Points  

- Pedestrian Walkways & Courtyards  

- Loading Docks & Service Areas  

- Helipads & Critical Infrastructure Zones  

Compliance & Standards:

- Crash Ratings: Some bollards meet K12, IWA-14, or PAS 69 standards for impact resistance.  

- ADA Compliance: Must not obstruct wheelchair access or pathways.  

- Local Regulations: Hospitals may follow DHS (U.S.), CPNI (UK), or ISO standards for hostile vehicle mitigation.  

Additional Measures:

- Combined with surveillance cameras, barriers, and access control systems for layered security.  

- Regular risk assessments to identify vulnerable areas needing bollards.  

Conclusion:

Security bollards in hospitals are a critical part of modern safety infrastructure, balancing protection, accessibility, and aesthetics. Their deployment should be tailored to the hospital’s specific threats and operational needs.