Three axes (active/passive; fixed/removable; manual/automatic) with quick selectors.
Pick the functional family before brand-shopping. We define HVM active/passive and fixed/removable choices, then align them to threat and people-flow so arrays stay usable. Typical arrays link forward to patterns (321) and clear-gap rules (232). For crash-rated selections, carry decisions into specs (433), foundations (331–334), and commissioning plans (631–638). You can also step up to this section or the chapter hub if you need broader context. If your project is in Dubai/UAE and requires approvals, see the SIRA Bollards (UAE) hub.
Important: This is a general guide. For live projects we develop a tailored Method Statement & Risk Assessment (MS/RA) and align with authority approvals (e.g., SIRA) where in scope.
124.1 Active vs Passive (definitions & uses)
Active = movable by control; passive = fixed geometry. Use active where lanes must switch modes (525, 821). Passive defines permanent standoff (213) and clear gaps (232). Both support HVM bollard strategies; only a crash rated bollard proves certified impact performance (411–413).
Active systems—such as automatic bollards—raise and lower on demand to admit legitimate vehicles while deterring hostile vehicles. They fit locations that shift between open and restricted, or that need credential checks, timed windows, or modes of operation (525).
Passive systems—fixed posts and sleeves—set a constant stand-off and clear-gap pattern, ideal for frontages and building lines that never open for vehicles. Where impact performance matters, use a certified crash-rated product; low-speed posts (441/442) are for storefront risk only.
| Aspect | What matters | Where to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Tested system (bollard + footing) | Crash Ratings Explained |
| Operations | Duty cycles, fail-state, EFO | Installation Guide |
124.2 Fixed vs Removable (selection rules)
Fixed: simplest, strongest, lowest OPEX. Removable: grant occasional access but risk misuse; specify keepered openings and controls (325). HVM bollard arrays can mix both; a removable crash rated bollard must remain within variant limits (415, 421).
Choose fixed where access never changes, or where consistency of foundation class is critical to preserve certification. Use removable (lift-out) pairs for service or events, but detail keepered openings, locking hardware, and supervision so gaps are not left unsecured. For mixed arrays, keep the foundation class consistent (331–333).
124.3 Manual vs Automatic (when to use)
Manual fits rare access, low throughput. Automatic serves daily operations; size drives and EFO behavior (341, 354). Either can be an HVM bollard; verify an automatic crash rated bollard variant is certified for your height/foundation (413, 332).
Manual retractable units suit seldom-used service gates. For regular lanes, an automatic system tied to access control, loops, and BMS/SCADA gives predictable flow and safety. Confirm the exact variant (diameter, height, foundation) is within the tested envelope (413).
124.4 Matching function to threat
Map threat vectors (225) and run-up (222) to function. Active at lanes with credentialing (534); passive at frontages (323). HVM bollard choice sets spacing (232); crash rated bollard selection locks certificate boundaries (421).
Use the VDA steps—impact angles & approach vectors (225) and run-up distance (222)—to decide whether a frontage needs passive fixed posts or an active lane with checks. Your function choice sets clear-gap and drives the rating-critical dependencies (421) you must hold through design and installation.
124.5 Typical arrays per function
Fixed inline/staggered (321), removable pairs for service (325), automatic lane sets (821). For HVM bollard layouts, maintain rhythm (316). For a crash rated bollard line, keep foundation class consistent (331–333).
- Fixed inline or staggered lines to protect frontages — see Array Patterns (321).
- Removable (paired) openings for occasional access — coordinate turning/sightlines in Turning & Service Access (325).
- Automatic lane sets with loops, beacons and interlock matrices — see Vehicle access lanes (821).
124.6 Integration with people flow
Preserve egress and crossings (231, 237). HVM bollard arrays must read as legible routes; a crash rated bollard’s head/height should not create hazards (312, 313).
Check egress widths (231) and sightlines & signage (237). Select heads/heights that avoid snags (312/313) and tune clear-gaps for prams, wheelchairs, and crowd flows.
124.7 Maintenance impact by function
Automatic units add drives, sensors, and panels (341–347), raising OPEX. Plan intervals (734) and spares (842). HVM bollard uptime relies on testability (356); crash rated bollard sleeves/finishes must be maintainable (366).
For automatic arrays, schedule inspections of HPUs, controls, and safety devices & measures (356). Build a preventive maintenance plan (734) and hold spares policy (842). For passive arrays, confirm sleeve/finish maintenance (366) and check for settlement or damage after minor incidents.
124.8 Costs/complexity trade-offs
Manual fixed: lowest cost. Removable: moderate with operational risk. Automatic: capex/opex higher but improves flow. HVM bollard benefits must justify cost (841); crash rated bollard certification can reduce approvals friction (717, 938).
Frame choices in lifecycle terms—maintenance cycles (842), cost ranges (841), and approvals effort (authority submittals 717, submission-pack guidance 938). Add installation planning links where helpful: What to Expect.
124.9 Moving from function to spec
Translate function to spec clauses (433): performance, variants (415), dependencies (421), installation (611–629). This preserves HVM bollard intent and keeps your crash rated bollard compliant at SAT (638).
Document the function choice inside your specification (433) with the rating string, variant limits (415), and rating-critical dependencies (421). Carry those through installation (611–629) and witness them during SAT (638).
Related
External resources
- NPSA — Hostile Vehicle Mitigation overview
- ASTM F2656 — Vehicle Crash Testing (overview)
- BSI — Vehicle Security Barriers (terminology)
124 Bollards by Function — FAQ
How do I choose between active and passive bollards?
Use active where vehicle flow must be switched or credentialed; use passive to set a permanent protected line. Then validate spacing (232) and, if required, pick a crash-rated product with a suitable rating (411–413).
When are removable bollards appropriate?
Use removable (lift-out) pairs for rare access. Specify keepered openings and controls so gaps are not left open. Maintain the same foundation class and line geometry where certification matters (331–333, 415).
Is a manual retractable bollard ever acceptable for security?
Yes—for infrequent access and low throughput. For daily lanes, use automatic bollards tied to loops, interlocks and alarms; confirm the exact variant (height/foundation) is within the tested envelope (413, 354).
What’s the next step after I pick the function?
Translate it into specs (433): rating string, variant limits (415), dependencies (421), and installation requirements (611–629). Carry those through commissioning and SAT/witness (638).