What are retractable barriers?

Retractable barriers are a versatile type of crowd management system that uses a belt that rolls up into a cassette and that can be extended to form a barrier for creating queue lines or cordoning off spaces. The spring-tensioned belt automatically retracts into the barrier housing and can be used on a pole or wall-mounted, for a neat and highly-effective barrier system.

What different types of retractable barriers are available?

The two main types of retractable barriers are post barriers and wall-mounted barriers. Post barriers can be positioned in open spaces and offer the flexibility of dividing up areas as required. Wall-mounted barriers can span corridors or doorways to restrict access, as well as being combined with post barriers as part of a larger setup. Retractable barrier accessories include sign holders, solid panels, and expanding steel concertina-style barriers—offering great flexibility in how you use the barriers.

How do you set up and use retractable barriers?

Using retractable barriers is as simple as positioning the barrier posts and then connecting two or more of them using the retractable tapes. The top of the barrier post has connectors on four sides, so it is possible to configure the barriers into any shape or orientation. The belts attach using a sliding mechanism that is both secure and easy to put in place, making it quick and easy to set up this type of barrier. We also have a range specialist fixing and mounting types including magnetic fixings, glass suction cups and racking straps for a wide range of uses.

What are the advantages of retractable barriers compared to other barrier types?

Advantages of retractable barriers include the flexibility to use them in different configurations and their professional and tidy appearance, the tensioned belts remain taut and neat when extended. These barriers feature robust and durable constructions, making them suitable for use in busy public areas. Retractable barriers are also very cost effective and affordable, making them an attractive option for businesses and organisations looking to get the best value for their budget. The retractable belt style is easy to use and can easily be used at different lengths, great for when different configurations are required.

Where are retractable barriers commonly used?

Retractable barriers are commonly used to create queues and waiting lines in all types of public and commercial spaces, including shops, fast-food restaurants, airports, hospitals, galleries and museums, and schools and colleges. They are essential tools for properly managing busy public and commercial areas such as entrances, receptions, waiting rooms, counters, and help desks, etc. We have a range of both indoor and outdoor options, in a huge range of size and styles so you can find the perfect option to suit your needs.

What are these retractable barriers made of?

Our comprehensive retractable barrier range features various post and base materials, including heavy-duty plastic, iron, and steel options. The bases use a heavy material to give stability to the post, while the upright poles are made from strong but lightweight materials so that the barrier has a low centre of gravity. The belts are made from highly-resilient fabric webbing that is resistant to fraying and wear, even with constant heavy use.

How stable are these retractable barriers?

These barriers combine a wide and heavy metal or plastic base with a lighter upright. This gives the barrier a low centre of gravity and exceptional stability. This makes it very difficult to knock over one of these barriers.

How long are the belts in these retractable barriers?

Our range of retractable barriers come with various belt lengths. Our standard lengths are 2.3m, 3.4m, 3.65m and 3.9m with a range of other size options available. This means you can choose barriers to suit the dimensions and size of your space. We also have a range of specialist options with belts up to 27m long, ideal for commercial use in warehouses and other spaces with large spans.

Can you provide wall-mounted retractable barriers?

We have a wide variety of wall-mounted options. These barriers are supplied with a wall clip that allows attaching the barrier to the opposite wall or surface, perfect for spanning corridors or doorways. Wall-mounted barriers can also be used with freestanding barriers, letting the barrier go right up to the wall surface.

Are different barrier colours and finishes offered?

Our retractable barriers are available in a vast array of different colours and finishes. Various chrome and metallic finishes are offered, as well as diverse shades and colours to fit in with any interior or décor style. It is even possible to print custom graphics for the barrier poles and to print bespoke messages onto the belt. Giving amazing scope for personalising barriers to your brand and style.

Can we print the barrier with our branding or artwork?

Yes, most of our barriers have the option to include a custom printed belt. Just contact us today for pricing and more information. Our Tensaclear Marketing Barrier has a clear post to also custom branded graphics to be added, ideal for a fantastic promotional tool and providing great scope for customisation.

Do you have belts with a safety message?

We stock barriers with safety and other messages printed on the barrier fabric belt. There is a wide range of messages to choose from. We also have the option of including a custom message, when those shown are not suitable.

Can retractable barriers be used outdoors?

We have various models that can be used outdoors. These robust retractable barriers use corrosion-resistant and water-proof materials that allow them to withstand being used in the sun and rain. They also feature extra heavy-duty bases that keep them stable in windy conditions.

How durable are retractable barriers?

All our retractable barriers are designed to withstand constant use in demanding public areas. Materials are selected for their strength and longevity, and the barriers are also easy to clean and maintain.

Are retractable belt barriers easy to move and store when not being used?

When portability is important, we recommend choosing one of our Rollabarriers. These innovative systems have wheels integrated into the base, which make moving the barriers simple. For all barriers, the retractable tape is kept safe and tidy inside its housing, making them easy to store. Although stable, the units are fairly lightweight and portable when needed.

Do you sell double belt retractable barriers?

We can supply double retractable barriers for a number of models, with both indoor and outdoor types available. These double-barriers have an additional lower tape that provides an extra layer of restriction and is ideal for use with small children in schools or family spaces.

Are low-cost and economy belt barriers available?

Our range starts at just £44.95 for our freestanding budget retractable queue barrier. With various low-cost and highly-affordable options, you are sure to find the perfect barrier to meet your practical and budgetary requirements.

Do your retractable barriers have a guarantee or warranty?

All our retractable barriers come with at least a 1-year guarantee, with many models offering multi-year warranties. These are high-quality robust products that are built for use in commercial environments.

How quick can I get a retractable barrier?

Many of our retractable barriers are available for next day UK delivery, which is ideal when you have a pressing store opening or upcoming event. Some models have a delivery time of 3–5 days.

Retractable Barriers

Retractable barriers, also known as a queue barrier or belt barrier is a versatile crowd management system often used in fast food restaurants, shops, and cinemas. They are called retractable due to the nature of the belt system which rolls itself up into the cassette for ease of storage. They come in a wide range of styles from free-standing to wall mounted and have an incredibly wide range of different features. In recent years they have become very popular due to them being a cost-effective and flexible way to organise queues and add efficiency.

We stock a wide variety of belt barriers that are available in a choice of post finishes, base options and belt colours. We even offer belts with printed messages on them. Choose from great value bundle kits or individual belt stanchions including a range of wall mounted and floor standing barriers from Tensator.