Thanks everyone for joining us today on Mighty Line Minute. Today we're talking about safety bollards and the ASTM standard that deals with low-speed impacts. Take it away, Amy!

Thanks, Dave. We've all seen or heard about vehicle operators who have crashed into trees or buildings due to a medical emergency, or hitting the wrong pedal. I also know that over the years you've investigated many cases like this to determine the root causes involved.

So — knowing their prevalence — I'm always concerned when I see lightly protected areas where people sit outside enjoying coffee or dinner right next to parking spaces. Child play areas at public parks, community centers, daycares, or churches are especially concerning when they sit near exposed vehicles.

When families or caregivers gather at a school playground, church nursery, public park, or recreation area, safety is expected. Parents and guardians assume the fencing, equipment, and surrounding environments have been carefully designed to protect children. Yet, one often-overlooked hazard remains in many locations around the world: accidental vehicle intrusion from adjacent parking lots or roadways. That’s where the ASTM F3016-2019 Vehicle Impact Protection Standard for Low-Speed Vehicles becomes so important.

This ASTM International standard establishes crash-testing requirements for low-speed vehicle impact protective devices, commonly known as safety bollards. These bollards — along with their subsurface reinforced concrete foundations — are engineered to stop or slow vehicles traveling at typical speeds found in parking lots, school drop-off lanes, church drives, or park access roads.

Unlike decorative posts or light-duty barriers, ASTM F3016 compliant bollards are tested as a complete system. This includes the subsurface reinforcement design — the foundation, anchorage, and surrounding concrete and soil interaction — not just the bollard itself.

The standard uses three primary speed classifications: S10 — tested at 10 mph, S20 — tested at 20 mph, and S30 — tested at 30 mph.

It also includes penetration ratings, where P1 means the vehicle penetrates one foot or less beyond the bollard line — offering the highest level of protection for sensitive areas. P2 allows penetration between one and four feet. In practical terms, P1-rated systems provide significantly better protection for areas with children or high pedestrian traffic.

For playgrounds or child play areas located right next to parking stalls, busy pickup lanes, or traffic approaches, safety professionals recognize the elevated risk of distracted driving or unintended acceleration.

These options should be studied for smaller parking lots with very low speeds having natural traffic calming features and safer setback distances.

Determining the right level of protection should always begin with a professional site assessment. Property owners, architects, churches, schools, and municipalities should evaluate vehicle speeds, traffic volume, site grade, distance to the play area, pedestrian density, and the possibility of larger vehicles. A church preschool right beside parking may need different protection than a neighborhood pocket park separated by substantial curbing, trees, or a hillside.

Another important consideration is funding. Nonprofits, schools, churches, and municipalities should explore grant opportunities and security reimbursements through FEMA programs. Many vehicle barrier projects qualify for assistance under nonprofit security or preparedness grants. Eligibility varies, so organizations are encouraged to consult grant professionals or state emergency management agencies for guidance.

Ultimately, ASTM F3016-2019 compliant safety bollards are far more than steel posts embedded in concrete. They are engineered, independently tested protective systems designed to safeguard children, families, and communities. Whether protecting a church daycare, public park, or school playground, properly specified and professionally installed crash-rated bollards deliver a vital layer of physical security where it matters most.

Thanks for listening today. We hope this helps you create safer spaces for those you care about — stay safe and take care.