How Wide and at What Height Do I Set Height Bars at Shopping Centres?

Many of our customers often ask us, "How wide and at what height do I set height bars in our shopping centre carpark entrances?" It's a crucial question, especially when ensuring the safety of both the infrastructure and the vehicles that pass underneath these bars daily. At Area Safe, we understand the importance of getting this right, and we're here to provide you with the information you need.

The short answer is: the width of the height bar should match the width of the driveway or entrance, with Area Safe providing standard sizes including 2m, 3m, 4m, 5m, and 6m to accommodate various entrance sizes. Customised lengths can easily be made to order too.

As for the height, we recommend that you measure the lowest point of the overhead structure or services and then subtract 50mm from that measurement. This ensures there's a safe clearance for all vehicles. This calculated height measurement is then the height we print on your height bar.

For example, if the lowest point within your carpark is 1950mm, we would recommend you advertise your ‘Max Clearance’ height as 1900mm or 1.9m.

What is a Height Restriction Bar?

A Height Restriction Bar, or height clearance bar, is an essential safety feature for any parking lot, especially in shopping centres with undercover parking areas. These bars serve as a physical and visual warning to drivers, indicating the maximum height of vehicles that can safely enter without causing damage to the structure or the vehicle itself.

Why Choose Area Safe Height Bars?

Area Safe Height Bars stand out from the alternatives for several reasons:

• Wind Resistance: Unlike lighter materials (i.e. aluminium or plastic) that can swing or flip, leaving the car park unprotected, Area Safe's heavy wall 2mm RHS (Rectangular Hollow Section) and galvanised steel construction ensures stability even in windy conditions.Visibility and Readability: Each bar is finished in hi-vis safety yellow, with large, easy-to-read text and black & yellow reflective warning chevrons, making it significantly more visible and readable than non-reflective, less conspicuous alternatives.

• Durability: The galvanised steel construction prevents rust, extending the lifespan of the height bar significantly. 

• Complete Solution: Area Safe Height Bars come with everything needed for installation, including a 1m drop galvanised chain on each end, chain hangers, and end caps, unlike alternatives which may not include these essential components. We also offer height bar support posts and brackets if you need to warn drivers before they enter the covered areas.

Choosing the right height and width for your height restriction bars at shopping centres is vital for the safety and protection of both the structure and the vehicles. Area Safe’s range of height restriction bars offers a durable, visible, and effective solution to manage this risk. By following the guidelines for setting the height and choosing the appropriate width, you can ensure a safer parking environment for everyone.