Advanced polymer technology vs steel
Traditional steel barriers can be expensive to maintain, prone to damage, and often unsuitable for demanding industrial environments. A-SAFE solutions are specifically engineered to perform in the toughest conditions, delivering long-lasting and reliable protection.
The benefits of A-SAFE polymer barriers
Enhanced safety
Engineered to stop forklifts and other industrial vehicles, A-SAFE barriers significantly reduce everyday operational risks, helping to prevent accidents and injuries.
Return on investment
A-SAFE barriers are scientifically developed to withstand repeated impacts without the need for repairs or replacement. No floor damage, no repainting — just long-term cost efficiency.
Tested and certified
Among the most rigorously tested safety barriers in the world, A-SAFE polymer solutions are impact-rated, compliant with PAS 13 guidelines, and independently verified by TÜV Nord.
Steel: Not designed for modern industrial safety
Steel barriers were originally developed in the 1930s for use on roads and highways. Since then, they have seen little evolution and are still often used as a low-cost, short-term solution in industrial environments.
However, they are not engineered to withstand the forces and impacts typical of today’s workplaces. As a result, they often lead to frequent damage, ongoing repairs, and high long-term costs.
Common problems with steel barriers
Floor damage
Steel barriers are unable to absorb the full energy of an impact from industrial vehicles. The excess force is often transferred directly to the floor, damaging the concrete and leading to costly repairs for both the surface and the barrier itself.
A-SAFE barriers are engineered to absorb and disperse impact forces within the barrier, helping to protect the floor from damage.
Rust and chipping
Steel barriers are prone to rust and require regular repainting. Over time, paint can chip and flake, creating hygiene concerns and increasing maintenance efforts.
A-SAFE polymer barriers remain highly visible, do not rust, and never need painting — saving both time and maintenance costs.
Frequent replacements
Rigid steel structures tend to bend and deform permanently, even after relatively minor impacts. This often results in frequent replacements.
A-SAFE barriers are designed to flex and return to their original shape after repeated impacts, significantly reducing replacement and maintenance expenses.
Vehicle damage
In busy industrial environments, minor collisions are inevitable. Steel barriers can cause damage to vehicles with every impact — from scratched paint to dented bodywork, which can be especially costly for leased fleets.
The advanced A-SAFE polymer material, Memaplex, absorbs impact forces and helps protect vehicles from damage.
The ROI of A-SAFE vs steel
On average, A-SAFE customers achieve a return on investment within just 18 months.
In a real-world comparison of 100 metres of steel barriers versus 100 metres of A-SAFE barriers in a busy warehouse, a 60-day trial revealed a clear difference. While steel may have a lower upfront cost, it leads to higher maintenance needs, more frequent replacements, and increased downtime — ultimately driving up total costs.
Latest generation polymer barriers
A-SAFE introduced the world’s first flexible polymer safety barrier in 2001. Now in its third generation, the system has been continuously refined to meet the demands of today’s most challenging industrial environments.
This original innovation transformed the industry and set a new standard for safety solutions, inspiring a wave of alternative products on the market.
Multi-component engineering: a new standard in safety barrier design
The latest generation builds significantly on the original concept, incorporating advanced patented materials and multi-component engineering for enhanced performance.
This approach delivers a level of durability and protection that sets a new benchmark in the industry.
Popular products
Extensively tested and impact-rated protection
All A-SAFE barrier systems undergo rigorous testing and come with certified impact ratings as standard. This allows you to confidently compare solutions and ensure the chosen barrier meets the specific demands of your facility.
In contrast, fabricated steel barriers are often not tested and typically have no defined impact rating, making it difficult to predict how they will perform in real industrial conditions.
Safety solutions
Industries & Sectors
Services
