A high security bollard or entrance control bollard system is designed to deter or completely stop unauthorised entrants, assets or vehicles whilst enforcing the use of an access control system to ensure the 'one token one person' rule applies. Bollards are used to protect areas that are either completely pedestrianised, or to restrict vehicle access. Bollards also act as a great security measure for businesses and shop fronts too. Bollards are made from sturdy materials, they can sometimes be damaged or develop wear and tear over time.

The weather can have a large impact on the condition of a bollard. Going from hot to freezing temperatures can cause cracks over time. Likewise, long periods of heavy rain over the years can result in imperfections, especially where wooden bollards are concerned. That's why it's important to check your bollards regularly, especially if there has been an extreme changein weather. Metal bollards are less susceptible to weather damage, but over the years it may create some issues.

Bollards are usually found next to roads, or within car parks, and this means it's not unlikely that one or two will come in contact with a vehicle. Bumps and scratches can occur, and over time this may lead to permanent damage to your bollards. A CCTV system can help to document any accidents around your perimeter and to check the severity of the damage. If any serious damage is caused, it is always best to replace the bollard.

Learning to check your bollards for damage is a great way to improve their overall maintenance. Regularly inspecting them for cracks and breaks means that they can be fixed quicker and no lasting damage will occur. If you have had your bollards for a long time, the exposure to various weather conditions may have caused them to rust or for parts to loosen. With this in mind, make sure to check them frequently. Dirt can also build-up on bollards, so giving them a quick clean every now and then will improve their performance greatly.

♦ Safety Instructions

All personnel who are applicable for the operation of the bollard, including back up personnel, must be thoroughly familiar with the operation and safety regulations.

Any maintenance and repairs must only be implemented by certified technical personnel.

No persons and/or vehicles are allowed into the area over the blocking element when the bollard is functional.

The closing element must be extended early enough that approaching vehicles can still stop in time.

If the bollard functions are activated with neglect to the afore mentioned points the manufacturer cannot be held liable for any damages that may result to any person and/or property.

Before the maintenance work can begin all safety precautions must be adhered.

♦ Monthly Maintenance by the Operating Personnel

After the control the stated changements in comparison to the original condition should be eliminated by corresponding counter measures.

The following points are to be visually examined:

Barrier Bollard

• 1) Clean any contamination on the annular gap between the bollard and the cover of the standpipe.
• 2) Check the extended blocking element for damages, e.g. impact, allow damage repair.
• 3) Check for faultless bollard movement and pay attention to any unusual noises.

Drive Unit

• 1) Check the hydraulic screws, oil tank and hydraulic units for leakage.
• 2) Check the intactness of the hydraulic hoses.
• 3) Check the oil level (level should be within the mark).
• 4) Check the intactness of the cover seals.

♦ First Maintenance Service by a Machine Expert

The first maintenance service should be made by a machine expert within the 1 quarter after the installation. Barrier Bollard

• a) Clean bollard completely from dirt.
• b) Screw-out bollard cover and examine fixation of the hydraulic cylinder.
• c) Examine the piston rod and the hose connections of the cylinder on leakages through light beam of a pocket lamp.
• d) Examine speed position above one -way restrictor and adjust once or if necessary the approximate direct running of the bollard running-out movement.

Bollard Housing

• a) Screw-off cover of the bollard housing and examine fix position of the proximity switch.
• b) Clean cover and inner space of the bollard housing and clean if achievable from dirt.
• c) Note, if penetrated surface water has flown above the drain channel, eliminate eventual obstructions. There should not be water in the bollard housing.
• d) Note purification degree on the bottom of the bollard housing. At bigger dirt, especially in the construction phase.

Drive Unit

• a) Clean drive unit completely from dust and dirt.
• b) Examine adjustment of the pressure limit valve for the operation pressure Manometer indication until. 50-60 bar allowed.

♦ Semi-Annual Maintenance Service by a Machine Expert

The semi-annual maintenance is to be performed by a machine specialist. It covers the visual examination as described under Point 1 and the following additional work:

Blocking Element

• a) Clean the entire blocking element.
• b) Unscrew the blocking element cover and check the hydraulic cylinder mounting as well as checking the tightness of the electrical limit switches.
• c) Check the piston rods and hydraulic cylinder hose connections for leakage (use a torch / flashlight).
• d) Check the approximate synchronisation of the bollard drive-out movement in multiple systems, if necessarily adjust the speed at the one-way restrictor.

Standpipe

• a) Clean cover and interior, within reach, of any contamination.
• b) Check the drainage connection, if necessary remove any blockage.
• c) Determine the degree of pollution on the bottom of the standpipe. With large soil accumulation, particularly in the building phase, cleaning may be necessary.

Drive Unit

• a) Clean the dust and dirt from the entire hydraulic unit.
• b) Check the operating pressure, if necessary adjust the pressure release valve (approx. 50-60 bar).

♦ Extensive Maintenance Service by a Machine Expert

The extensive maintenance service is after 1000 operation hours, but at least each 2 year. Additionally to the first maintenance service the following works should be made.

• a) Examination of all functional components, combinations and screwing on integrity and fix position.
• b) Exchange of the hydraulic liquid. Open filler cap and guide the hydraulic liquid into the sanitation container.
• c) Use the unused hydraulic liquid, of the type of the first filling, to be bought from the bollard manufacturer.
• d) Make functional test and if necessary, proceed to adjustment.
• e) Examination of the control by an expert. Examine condition of the control and perfect working procedure of the electrical components.

The observance of the maintenance intervals and the execution of the maintenance works guarantee a free disturbances operation and maintenance of the installation.

Here at Expert Security we offer a range of bollards, along with maintenance service to keep them in top condition. Our maintenance cover includes a professional service, provided by our repair engineers, to regularly check your bollards. This will reduce the risk of malfunction or damage. These routine checks will be scheduled in advance and afterwards we will provide a range of detailed reports surrounding the visit. If this is something you would be interested in, or if you'd like to learn more about our broader range of security products, contact us over ssaintegrate@gmail.com today.

(This "Article" Published in September 2023 Edition)