5 Uses for Retractable Barriers in Crowd Control

by Kevin Smith Author

If you run a store or a venue, you want big crowds. The bigger the crowd, the bigger the profits. However, crowds can cause a problem as well if they're not properly controlled. That's where retractable barriers come in. Here are a few ways retractable barriers can play a valuable role in your efforts at crowd control.

1. Direct Your Customers

Once crowds start to form, it can be difficult directing your customers on where they want to go. Retractable barriers can easily be set up in such situations guiding people towards the cashiers, and then the exits. If you're running an event, you'll want to keep traffic running smoothly. Retractable barriers can be lengthened or shortened depending on the crowd size, so you'll be ready, regardless of the scenario.

2. Regulate the Flow of Service

Once lines start to form at checkout, it doesn't take long for chaos to reign. Unregulated lines can result in customers jockeying for position and employees arbitrarily calling out for "whoever's next". This can result in a stressful and unpleasant experience for both customers and employees. Retractable barriers, however, can be set up in no time, so the chaos of a busy checkout line can be easily averted.

3. Safety First

Whether at an event or a place of business, unregulated crowds can quickly become unsafe. The danger is compounded if there's a spill or construction going on. Placing barriers around hazards or diverting customers away from construction or works in progress is vital for guaranteeing peoples' safety.

4. Restricting Access

If your business is holding a special event in one of your rooms, or if you're hosting a book signing or something similar, retractable barriers are great to have on hand for limiting access. You can either redirect people to the proper point of entry or block off the event altogether. Once the event is wrapped up, you can put the barrier back in storage.

5. Account for Overflow

One of the most important aspects of retractable barriers is the word "retractable". You never know when you're going to have that once-in-a-lifetime sales day. If you have retractable barriers on hand, you'll be ready for whatever the future holds, so you won't have to lose any sales because a crowd got out of control.

When it comes to protecting your employees as well as your customers, retractable barriers are a must-have for any small business owner.