Do MPM PVC barriers shatter on impact?

In the search for safer, more sustainable pedestrian segregation in warehouses, factories, or yards, many businesses turn to polymer safety barriers as a long-term solution. And once you’ve reached that decision, the next big question is: which supplier should you trust?

At Clarity, we work with companies across the UK to solve complex workplace safety and pedestrian segregation challenges. As you start comparing quotes or weighing up suppliers, it’s not unusual to hear conflicting claims - especially about sustainability and barrier durability.

One concern that often gets raised: Do PVC barriers shatter on impact?

Let’s break it down.

The Truth About MPM Barriers

We’re proud to be the UK distributor and installer of MPM polymer barriers, manufactured in Italy by a true sustainability-first business. MPM operates a closed-loop production system, generating its own solar energy, reusing 100% of its process water, and maintaining a zero-waste-to-landfill policy.

Some competitors argue that UK-made products automatically offer lower carbon footprints due to travel distance. But that’s not always the case. When it comes to environmentally responsible manufacturing, MPM stands out — as we explore in our guide:

➡️ Which polymer barriers have the lowest carbon footprint?

So, Can PVC Shatter?

As with any material, the answer depends on the type and how it's engineered.

It’s true that raw PVC can be brittle and may shatter in certain conditions, particularly under extreme temperatures or sharp impact. The same is true of polypropylene, which is why many barrier manufacturers offer freezer-grade and ambient-grade versions of their products.

However, the PVC used in MPM pedestrian barriers is specially modified for flexibility and impact resistance. This is done using elastomers, such as MBS, which transform the characteristics of PVC — making it highly durable and far less prone to cracking or shattering.

In short: No, MPM PVC barriers do not shatter under normal use. They are designed specifically to flex and absorb impact, rather than break apart.

Why Additives Matter

Adding elastomers like MBS changes more than just strength. For example:

• It removes the optical clarity of PVC, giving it a cloudier appearance (not a concern for coloured safety products).

• It slightly increases manufacturing cost — but also delivers significantly better performance and longer life.

That’s why MPM barriers are trusted by global manufacturers, logistics operators, and distribution centres alike. They’re engineered for the real world — built to last and built to protect.

Still Weighing Up Your Options?

If you're comparing different barrier systems and want to understand how MPM stacks up against the rest, download our free guide below: