Security When Space Is at a Premium
Security teams and building designers have long had to deal with an important balancing act. Pedestrian safety is important, but oftentimes it comes at the cost of aesthetics. In addition, with the advent of social distancing, creating pathways for high foot traffic areas is an even greater challenge.
Even after the COVID-19 pandemic has run its course, the concepts and routines established by the crisis may stick around for years to come. The tactics used to overcome many limitations such as narrow sidewalks and busy streets will likely continue to see use. Establishing excellent use of security resources now can help prepare organizations for similar events in the future.
Not Just Social Distancing
While six-foot spaces have become an albeit temporary norm, the idea that roads and sidewalks should be safer areas for bicycle and foot transportation will never abate. Many situations call for short-term use of a variety of spaces. Knowing how to best utilize these areas will help streamline the planning process for later events such as fairs, concerts, sports games and parades.
Residential sidewalks and streets have seen a dramatic increase in pedestrians and cyclists since the advent of social distancing and the trend may continue well after the threat has abated. Some cities such as New Orleans are instituting “Slow Streets” initiatives that lower speed limits to make walking much safer for the average pedestrian. Converting low-traffic roads into foot and bicycle paths is an excellent way to take advantage of little-used pavement into a way for people to focus on exercise.
The Normalization of More Room
It’s not only side streets that can be converted into pedestrian-safe areas. In April, Portland laid out a plan to convert portions of roads into additional sidewalk space. This would allow more pedestrians additional access to safe walking spaces while also allowing cars and trucks to continue towards their destinations. The proposal also included creating designated delivery spaces for restaurants and retail outlets that would allow shipments to arrive locations separate from the public.
Crowded streets may be a thing of the past, and implementing strategies similar to Portland and New Orleans may help bridge the transition towards this new norm. These practices can not only be put into place if another pandemic were to strike, but they also may offer permanent solutions to problems city dwellers didn’t; even know they had. Using the right tools, a community can create much safer areas for social distancing that remain effective long after current threats have passed.
Saving Space
New and expanded footpaths can be established in little time. Temporary solutions like TB150 movable bollards and the DSC1000 portable barrier are excellent resources to create walkways that are safe from even the most determined attackers or unfortunate accidents. More permanent solutions including TT207SFM surface mounted edge barricades provide an answer for areas where there is a need for quick and fluid changes between pedestrian and vehicular access.
Delta Scientific understands that the world is changing. Our skilled technicians are on hand to help our customers find security solutions that fit both current and future needs. Contact us to learn more about transforming your current security setup into one that will be viable for years to come.
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!