Traffic Posts & Delineators (Canada)
Traffic Posts & Delineators — Selection, Spacing & Installation (Canada)
1) What’s the difference between posts, delineators, and bollards?
- Delineator Posts — flexible polymer uprights with reflective bands, used to guide traffic; typically portable with weighted bases.
- Traffic Posts — similar to delineators; often used with plastic chain for queueing/crowd control.
- Bollards — rigid or semi-rigid protection (impact rated or decorative). Not usually portable.
For temporary channels or parking control, delineator posts are the standard pick.
2) Which height and diameter should I choose?
| Height | Typical Application |
|---|---|
| 90–100 cm | Parking lots, pedestrian routing, indoor facilities |
| 100–120 cm | General outdoor channelization and low-speed roads |
| 120–140 cm | Higher visibility needs, snowbanks, roadside work zones |
Wider diameters improve visibility and durability but need heavier bases.
3) Base options (rubber kg, bolt-down, adhesive) — what works where?
Rubber Portable Bases — 3–12 kg typical. Great for fast deployment and seasonal moves. Choose heavier for wind-exposed lots.
Bolt-Down Plates — anchors to concrete/asphalt for semi-permanent lanes or docks.
Adhesive Pads/Butyl — quick indoor installs; not ideal for freeze-thaw or plow areas.
Spring-return studs — allow flex + rebound; best for plow contact zones.
| Exposure | Suggested Base |
|---|---|
| Indoor / sheltered | 3–5 kg portable base |
| Outdoor parking | 6–9 kg portable or bolt-down |
| Roadside / open wind | 9–12 kg portable + rebound stud or bolt-down |
4) Reflective bands — classes, colours, and visibility at night.
Use high-intensity silver/white bands (single wide or double band). For road applications, match the reflectivity class referenced by your authority (e.g., high-intensity or better). Facility-only use has more flexibility.
FR/EN: Bandes réfléchissantes conseillées pour l’usage de nuit / Reflective bands recommended for night use.
5) Recommended spacing and taper lengths.
Spacing depends on speed, lane width, and visibility. For parking lots and pedestrian routing, tight spacing (e.g., 1.5–3 m) creates clear channels. For public roads, follow the work-zone manual in your province for taper length and device spacing.
6) Winter use: wind, snowplows, and cold-flex performance.
- Pick polymers rated for cold-weather flexibility (less cracking, better rebound).
- Heavier bases or bolt-down studs resist wind and snow spray.
- In plow routes, use rebound/spring studs or set posts outside the plow path.
7) When to use chains, tapes, or cone bars with posts.
- Plastic chain — fast crowd control, queue lines, loading zones.
- Retractable belt/tape — indoor facilities, clean visuals, adjustable span.
- Cone bars — quick temporary barrier between posts or cones.
8) Colours: Orange vs Yellow vs Black (road vs facility).
Orange dominates road and construction visibility. Yellow/Black are common for warehouses, docks, and non-road use. Always follow the colour guidance in your jurisdiction for roadside work.
9) Care, inspection, and replacement indicators.
- Check for leaning posts, torn bands, cracked bases, or loose hardware.
- Clean with mild detergent; avoid solvents that dull retro-reflective sheeting.
- Replace when reflectivity fades or the post no longer rebounds upright.
10) Posts vs cones vs barriers — which is right for my site?
Choose Posts/Delineators for guided lanes, recurring layouts, or when you need high visibility + stable bases.
Choose Cones for ultra-fast deployment and mixed indoor/outdoor use.
Choose Barriers when you need physical separation or crowd restraint.
For parking control, bundle with wheel stoppers and corner guards.
Important Legal/Compliance Note (Canada)
This content is general guidance, not legal advice. Traffic control on Canadian public roads references the MUTCDC and province/territory manuals (e.g., Ontario OTM Book 7, Québec Tome V, BC TMM, Alberta Traffic Accommodation in Work Zones). Your authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) sets the rules. Where requirements differ, the AHJ manual/specification prevails. Consult a qualified traffic control professional when in doubt.
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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.