Traffic Posts & Delineators (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?

Wider diameters improve visibility and durability but need heavier bases.

3) Base options (rubber kg, bolt-down, adhesive) — what works where?

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?