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What are the best flexible barriers in the UK?

Written by Caleb Shaw | Apr 2, 2024 3:43:10 PM

 

If you’re reading this, you’re probably searching for a durable, long-lasting industrial barrier system for your factory or warehouse. With so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.

This article focuses on three key flexible polymer barrier systems commonly used across the UK: A-Safe, Boplan, and Clarity barriers.


So, What’s the Difference?

A-Safe barriers

A-Safe is one of the most established names in the UK market, with local manufacturing and headquarters. They offer a full range of flexible barriers, from pedestrian protection to heavy plant zones. Their Polypropylene (PP)-based barriers provide many advantages over steel: they don’t bend or deform like steel on impact, maintain a clean visual profile, and improve pedestrian safety. A-Safe systems come pre-sized for straightforward installation and are widely recognised for reliability.

Boplan barriers

Boplan, manufactured in Belgium, offers a similar suite of products made from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). Their system is known for its clever locking mechanisms and corrosion resistance, making it well-suited to environments with moisture or chemical exposure. Like A-Safe, Boplan focuses on large-diameter, high-visibility designs that work across many industrial applications.

Clarity barriers

Clarity barriers are the next generation of polymer systems. Manufactured using advanced polymer technology, these barriers combine strength, slim profiles, and multi-environment adaptability.

Unlike A-Safe and Boplan, which require different product lines for different conditions (indoor, outdoor, or cold storage), Clarity barriers use one high-performance range capable of handling:

  • Freezers down to -100°C

  • UV-heavy outdoor yards

  • Busy internal forklift zones

This means you get a simpler, unified solution that reduces complexity and offers long-term cost savings.

Plus, Clarity barriers are significantly more cost-competitive than many other suppliers, offering a budget-friendly upgrade path, even for sites currently relying on steel or mixed systems.

Where Would You Choose Each Barrier?

A-Safe

If your site is already fully fitted with A-Safe barriers, it might make sense to continue for visual consistency or system uniformity. A-Safe can also offer lower upfront costs due to local production and the relatively lower material cost of PP-based systems.

Boplan

If you already use Boplan, maintaining the same visual appearance and system configuration may be your priority. Boplan’s HDPE systems also shine in highly corrosive environments.

Clarity

If you’re looking for maximum versatility, durability, and cost competitiveness, Clarity barriers stand out.

  • Need one system that can handle everything from freezing storage to external yards?

  • Want slim, strong profiles without sacrificing impact resistance?

  • Looking to simplify procurement and installation with fewer product variations?

Want a system that can flex, absorb impacts, and rebound, protecting both people and assets, and all at a highly competitive price point? Choose Clarity barriers.

Ready to Future-Proof Your Facility?

If you’re considering upgrading your barriers or simply want expert advice, our team is here to help.

Get in touch and we can walk you through the best options for your site and even show you how switching to Clarity barriers can save money long term.