Plastic Chains & Retractable Belts in Canada
Plastic Chains & Retractable Belts — Queueing, Safety Zones & Parking (Canada)
1) What problems do chains and belts solve?
- Create quick pedestrian channels and queues.
- Block access to hazards or maintenance zones.
- Mark parking areas, loading bays, and restricted aisles.
- Provide flexible separation without permanent fencing.
2) Chain vs belt — when to choose which?
Plastic chain (PP/PE): best for outdoors, long runs, and posts spaced far apart. Weatherproof, inexpensive, easy to cut/extend.
Retractable belt: best for indoors or clean facility zones. Adjustable length, tidy look, printed warnings, quick open/close.
FR/EN: Chaîne pour l’extérieur; sangle rétractable pour l’intérieur / Chain for outdoor; retractable belt for indoor.
3) Chain sizes, materials & colour coding.
| Link Size | Typical Span | Best Use | Colours |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4–6 mm | 1.0–1.5 m between posts | Indoor light-duty | Yellow, black, red/white |
| 6–8 mm | 1.5–2.0 m between posts | General-purpose | Yellow/black, red/white, solid |
| 8–10 mm | 2.0–2.5 m between posts | Outdoor, windier sites | High-contrast patterns |
Colour tips: Yellow/black = caution; red/white = do-not-enter; solid colours for branding or departments.
4) Belt cassette lengths, tapes & messages.
- Common cassette lengths: 2 m, 3 m, 5 m (longer available for wall-mounts).
- Printed legends: CAUTION / ATTENTION (EN/FR), “Do Not Enter”, arrows, chevrons.
- Choose high-contrast tapes for dim garages or warehouses.
- Locking ends & safety brake mechanisms reduce snap-back risk.
5) Posts, cones & bases — compatibility.
- Use delineator posts with chain rings or belt receivers.
- For cones, add cone rings or cone-top belt cartridges.
- Pick bases by environment: rubber 6–12 kg for outdoors; lighter bases indoors.
- Check stem diameter vs base opening to avoid wobble.
6) Outdoor/winter performance (EN/FR).
- Choose UV-stabilized PP/PE chain and cold-rated plastics down to −20 °C.
- Lower chain height in high winds; add intermediate posts to cut “sail”.
- Bring belt cassettes indoors during storms to protect springs.
- FR/EN: Utiliser des matériaux résistants aux UV et au gel / Use UV- and cold-resistant materials.
7) Spacing, height & layout basics.
- Post spacing: start at 1.5–2.0 m; tighten in wind/exposed areas.
- Chain/belt height: ~0.9–1.0 m for adult visibility; add a lower run (~0.45 m) where trip risk exists.
- Keep clear openings for exits, doors, and accessibility routes.
8) Hardware: hooks, rings, clips & wall mounts.
- S-hooks for fast connections; carabiners for secure links.
- Chain rings on post caps; end caps to prevent fray on cut chain.
- Wall-mounted belts for dock doors, corridors, and wash bays.
- Use stainless or galvanized hardware for outdoor/salt exposure.
9) Maintenance & inspection checklist.
- Monthly: check faded chain links, cracked belt tapes, and loose receivers.
- Replace brittle plastics after winter; cold ages low-grade PP fast.
- Clean with mild soap; avoid solvents on printed tapes.
10) Bundles & related products.
- Posts & Delineators + Bases & adapters
- Portable EN/FR signs for hazard communication
- Reflective boards for night visibility
- Barriers & Barricades for long separations
- Traffic cones for quick closures
- Solar warning lamps for 24/7 attention
Important Legal/Compliance Note (Canada)
This guidance is informational, not legal advice. Use of chains/belts with traffic control devices on public roads must follow the applicable Traffic Control Device Manuals (e.g., MUTCDC/TAC and provincial manuals such as Ontario OTM Book 7, Québec Tome V, BC TMM). For workplaces and private facilities, follow Occupational Health & Safety and accessibility requirements set by your authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). Where a standard specifies device colour, reflectivity, heights, or spacing, that document prevails.
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The Biri Group is a supplier of building materials that specializes in the production and manufacture of road and traffic safety products, including traffic signs, building materials, and hoses.
At Biri Group, we are dedicated to providing innovative solutions for road and traffic safety. Our portfolio includes a wide range of products, including traffic signs, building materials, and hoses. Our state-of-the-art production and manufacturing unit, Biri Industries, located in RAK, allows us to efficiently produce products to meet the demands of the market.
Our commitment to excellence extends beyond just our products. We believe in building long-lasting relationships with our customers and partners and providing exceptional customer service. Our team of experts is always available to assist with any questions or concerns and provide guidance on selecting the right product for your needs.
At Biri Group, we are constantly striving to improve and offer better, stronger products. We take pride in our ability to adapt to the changing market and provide innovative solutions to meet the evolving needs of our customers.
Thank you for considering Biri Group for your traffic safety needs. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you and help make your roads safer.