Pedestrian safety in factories and warehouses isn’t just about installing a barrier system - it’s about maintaining one that continues to meet safety standards, year after year.
But how do you know if your current safety barriers still comply with the latest guidance?
We speak to dozens of health and safety managers who assume their existing barrier system “must be compliant” because it hasn’t caused an issue yet. But unfortunately, that’s rarely the case.
This article will help you assess whether your current setup still meets modern safety expectations, and where the risks might lie.
Workplace accidents involving forklifts and other moving equipment continue to be one of the leading causes of serious injury in industrial environments.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides clear guidance on the need for “suitable and sufficient” segregation between vehicles and pedestrians, and barrier systems are central to this.
A non-compliant or outdated barrier system not only puts people at risk but can leave your business exposed to regulatory action, fines, or liability in the event of an incident.
PAS 13 is a widely referenced code of practice for safety barriers in industrial settings. It outlines guidance on:
Impact resistance
Deflection and energy absorption
Barrier layout and placement
Clear zones and exclusion areas
Pedestrian crossing points
But PAS 13 is not a formal standard, it’s a guide. Which means your system may appear “compliant” on paper, but still fall short of best practice.
Want to learn more? Download our PAS 13 Guide or explore our barrier testing and compliance standards.
If you're unsure whether your barrier system is still compliant, here are 6 key questions to consider:
Was your system installed before 2017 (pre-PAS 13)?
→ If yes, it may not meet current layout and performance expectations.
Are your barriers tested to real-world impact conditions?
→ Many cheaper systems use self-certified data without independent testing. Your barriers should be certified to withstand site-specific forces (e.g. FLT speed, weight, angle of impact).
Do your barriers still align with current site traffic?
→ Has the speed, weight or type of material handling equipment changed since installation? If so, your barrier system may no longer be fit for purpose.
Have your walkways or pedestrian routes changed?
→ Old walkways, markings or barriers that no longer match traffic flow can lead to confusion and risk.
Are there signs of damage, floor cracking or barrier deflection?
→ If a barrier has been hit and hasn't returned to shape, it may not absorb impact properly next time.
Do your barriers include safety gates, signage, or visibility strips?
→ Modern systems are often integrated with visual cues, access control and warning signage. A bare minimum setup may not be considered sufficient anymore.
Forklift damage visible on or around barrier posts
Missing fixings or loosened footplates
Painted lines that no longer match pedestrian behaviour
Lack of impact testing certification
No documentation from original install
Use of rigid steel where flexible options are recommended
If any of the above apply, it may be time to review your setup.
Even the best systems need to be reviewed.
As sites grow, traffic increases, and pedestrian habits change, your original system may no longer reflect how your space is used. That’s why we always recommend a periodic barrier audit — especially if:
It’s been more than 3 years since installation
You’ve had a near-miss incident
You’re unsure who installed the current system
You're considering a site refresh or layout change
At Clarity, we offer free discovery calls and site surveys to help you understand whether your current barrier system still meets best practice.
Barrier compliance isn’t just about ticking a box - it is about actively protecting people, equipment and operations.
And it’s not static. As your site evolves, your safety systems need to keep pace.
If you're unsure whether your barriers are still compliant, we’re happy to help you review your options, whether that’s a minor upgrade, a full refresh, or simply peace of mind.