SAFTEY BOLLARDS

When it comes to protecting commercial and industrial properties, concrete bollards are the first line of defense. But a successful installation is about more than just pouring concrete—it requires rigorous planning, strict code compliance, and flawless execution.

In our latest project, we delivered a comprehensive concrete bollard installation that maximized site security while minimizing operational impact. Through strategic planning and expert execution, we completed the entire project three days ahead of schedule, resulting in zero unplanned downtime for our client’s property.

Here is a look at our process, our commitment to safety, and the building standards we uphold.

1. Site Assessment & Utility Locates

Before breaking ground, we conducted a comprehensive site survey. We coordinated with Ontario One Call for complete utility locates to ensure all underground gas, electrical, and water lines were clearly marked and avoided.

2. Precision Excavation

To prevent winter frost heave—a critical requirement in Ontario—we excavated the bollard footings to a depth safely below the local frost line (minimum 1.2 meters / 4 feet). Excavation was performed methodically to keep the surrounding pavement intact and the site clean.

3. Structural Reinforcement

We utilized structural-grade steel rebar cages within each footing and extending up into the core of the bollard. This internal skeleton is what gives the concrete its immense tensile strength, ensuring it can absorb and deflect high-velocity vehicle impacts.

4. High-Strength Concrete Placement

We placed the steel bollard sleeves and poured high-strength, air-entrained concrete. The air-entrainment prevents the concrete from cracking during freeze-thaw cycles. We vibrated the concrete during the pour to eliminate air voids and ensure a solid, monolithic structure.

5. Finishing and Site Restoration

Once cured, the bollards were finished with high-visibility, weather-resistant safety sleeves. The surrounding asphalt and concrete were seamlessly repaired, leaving the site looking better than we found it.

Strict Compliance with the Ontario Building Code (OBC)

We don't cut corners. Every bollard was installed in strict accordance with the Ontario Building Code and associated structural standards to guarantee long-term liability protection for our client:

Structural Integrity (OBC Div. B, Part 4): Our installation met the structural design requirements for impact resistance. The concrete mix and placement procedures strictly adhered to CSA Standard A23.1/A23.2 (Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction), which is legally enforced through the OBC.
Frost Protection (OBC Div. B, 9.12.2.2): We ensured all foundational footings extended below the frost line to prevent structural shifting or degradation from freeze-thaw cycles.
Accessibility Standards: Bollard spacing was meticulously measured to ensure compliance with the AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) and OBC barrier-free design requirements (OBC Section 3.8), maintaining a minimum clear width of 1500mm for pedestrian and wheelchair access where required.

Safety First: Zero Incidents, Zero Near Misses

Construction inherently carries risks, but our safety protocols are non-negotiable. For this project, we implemented a site-specific safety plan based on the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA).

Daily Job Safety Analysis (JSA): Every morning began with a hazard assessment and toolbox talk.
Strict PPE Enforcement: All crew members were equipped with high-visibility gear, steel-toe boots, hard hats, and safety glasses.
Traffic & Pedestrian Control: We set up secure perimeters and clear signage to protect both our workers and the public.

The result? We are incredibly proud to report that this project was completed with zero injuries and zero near misses.

The Client Victory

Time is money. By running highly efficient crews, utilizing rapid-curing high-strength concrete, and scheduling noisy or disruptive work during off-peak hours, we accelerated the project timeline significantly.

We handed the site back to the client 3 full days ahead of our contracted schedule. Most importantly, the client’s facility remained fully operational throughout the entire process, resulting in 0 unplanned downtime.

"Expert execution means your business doesn't miss a beat while we fortify your perimeter."

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