When it comes to warehouse safety, few things are more important than getting your barriers right. Whether you're dealing with forklift traffic, pedestrian walkways, or expensive machinery, the right barrier can make a huge difference, not just in protecting people and assets, but also in saving money long-term.
This article is your go-to guide if you're trying to figure out what kind of barrier suits your warehouse. From flexible vs. rigid to common pitfalls and supplier advice, we break it down with clarity and your business in mind.
At its core, a warehouse safety barrier is a physical solution that helps separate, define, and protect different areas within your site. They're essential for preventing accidents, guiding traffic, and minimising downtime due to collisions or damage.
Barriers are used to:
Separate pedestrian and vehicle routes
Protect equipment or racking
Mark out safe zones
Absorb or deflect impact from forklifts or HGVs
At Clarity Safety, we specialise in flexible polymer barriers that absorb impact and return to shape, making them a smart alternative to rigid steel systems in most scenarios.
Learn more about how polymer performs vs. metal in our barrier comparison guide.
Flexible barriers are designed and tested to absorb energy from impact. They bend and flex rather than break, protecting your floor, your vehicles, and your people, and they often mean fewer repairs.
Rigid barriers, such as steel or concrete, don't flex and typically transfer impact energy directly to the vehicle or the ground. They offer solid resistance but can lead to higher maintenance costs if hit frequently.
Our take?
High-traffic or forklift-heavy zones benefit from flexible polymer systems
Static asset zones (e.g., server rooms, walls) may still suit rigid barriers
Always factor in total cost of ownership, not just the unit price
Explore our flexible polymer barriers here.
Pricing can vary dramatically, so here are the main factors:
Barrier material (polymer vs. steel)
Barrier type and size (kerbs, pedestrian barriers, topple barriers)
Customisation (colours, signage integration)
Installation method (self-install vs. installed for you)
While polymer barriers may come with a slightly higher initial cost, they offer significantly lower cost per impact - making them the long-term value winner in most logistics and manufacturing environments
A good supplier should break this down clearly. With Clarity, your quote typically includes:
Barrier system (posts + rails + fixings)
Optional installation service
Technical support
Warranty coverage (we don’t void self-installs!)
Make sure you ask about:
Dowels, caps, and corners
Ground fixings (e.g., for concrete vs tarmac)
Drawings or layout plans
Ongoing support or spare parts
Choosing the wrong type can mean real consequences:
Rigid barriers in high-impact zones can damage floors or vehicles
Cheap barriers may not meet PAS 13 or UNI/TS standards
Low-quality materials = early replacement, wasted spend
At Clarity, we’ve seen businesses upgrade from poor barrier installs that failed within months — and the operational costs of removing, replacing, and repairing were far higher than investing in the right solution up front.
You’re not just buying a product, you’re choosing a safety partner. Here’s what to look for:
Proven expertise in warehouse environments
Barrier systems that are tested to international safety standards
Transparent pricing, clear warranty terms, and flexible install options
Support from planning to post-install
At Clarity we offer all of this as standard, because protecting your team and site shouldn’t be a guessing game. You can even try our barrier calculator to see what you'd need.
Safety barriers aren’t just compliance tools: they’re a vital part of how your warehouse runs day-to-day. The right system helps you reduce accidents, keep teams moving safely, and avoid costly downtime.
If you want expert advice tailored to your site, speak to one of our safety specialists today.