Using Acrylic for Safety Shields and Barriers: A Contemporary Solution
Acrylic is an excellent material for protective barriers and shields, widely used in offices, schools, healthcare facilities, and retail stores to reduce the spread of airborne contaminants. Using acrylic for safety shields and barriers combines practicality with safety, offering a reliable solution that’s effective and visually unobtrusive. It’s easy to work with, making it ideal for custom fabrication projects and adaptable to nearly any environment.
Benefits of Acrylic for Safety Shields and Barriers
Clarity and Transparency: Acrylic is highly transparent and provides clear visibility, making it ideal for settings where people need unobstructed communication. It allows light to pass through, helping maintain a bright environment.
Durability and Impact Resistance: Acrylic is stronger than glass and resistant to impacts, making it safer and less likely to shatter. This durability makes it suitable for high-traffic areas and places where the shield might be subject to frequent contact.
Easy to Clean and Maintain: Acrylic surfaces are smooth and non-porous, so they’re easy to sanitise with appropriate cleaning solutions. However, it’s essential to use non-abrasive cleaners to avoid scratching the surface.
Lightweight: Acrylic weighs less than glass, which makes it easier to install and reposition if necessary. This quality is beneficial for both portable and permanent installations.
Customisation Options: Acrylic is highly customisable, allowing it to be cut, shaped, or bent into a variety of designs. This flexibility means acrylic barriers can be crafted to fit different counters, desks, or spaces.
Cost Effective: Acrylic is generally more affordable than other transparent materials like polycarbonate, providing a cost-effective solution for large-scale installations.
Important Considerations
Avoid Scratching: Acrylic can scratch more easily than other materials, so it’s best to use microfiber cloths and gentle cleaners.
Discoloration Over Time: While acrylic is UV-resistant, prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause yellowing. Indoor usage helps to extend its lifespan.
Installation Options: Acrylic barriers can be mounted on stands, hung from ceilings, or attached to surfaces using adhesives or screws.
Best Uses of Acrylic Safety Shields
Retail Counters: Acrylic barriers can create separation between cashiers and customers.
Reception Desks: In offices, schools, and healthcare facilities, they serve as a transparent protective shield for reception staff. The BCJ team formed an acrylic isolation screen for the Cockburn City Council, demonstrating how well-designed barriers can enhance (rather than obstruct) operational efficiency.
Dining and Seating Areas: Acrylic shields can divide seating areas in restaurants or between desks in open workspaces.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Use a mild soap solution or specialised acrylic cleaner.
Avoid using alcohol-based cleaners or ammonia, which can cause cloudiness.
Wipe gently with a soft cloth, avoiding rough sponges or paper towels.
Conclusion
Acrylic has proven itself as the definitive material for organisations implementing safety barriers without compromising professional standards. BCJ Plastic Products’ extensive experience in custom acrylic fabrication has delivered successful safety solutions across Western Australia, including notable projects for major council facilities. Contact us to discover how our expertise can enhance protection in your workplace.
Fantastic service and wonderful people to deal with.
Caring For Western Australia
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09/05/2023
Great service and good prices. Thanks Nat and Staff.
Robert Squire
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12/02/2023
I used BCJ Plastics today for the first time and the service and price were great. I dealt with Tim originally and also another bloke in the office. The team were friendly and knowledgeable and I will definitely be using them again in the future for my business needs.
Ashley Spicer
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09/06/2022
Great service, friendly and value for money. Will buy again.
David Powell
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23/05/2022
Tim and Pat custom-made acrylic guards for our internal balcony balustrades (to child-proof). They did a seamless job! Very carefully measured and made panels, neat installation and the overall aesthetic of the balconies were not at all compromised. Such a polite and professional service. We will definitely call on them again.
Catherine
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16/02/2022
Decided to use BCJ plastics to make a custom sneeze screen as their price was very reasonable. Very quick turn around. An error was made with the dimensions but they happily remade the whole screen again the same day. Can’t ask for any better service. Very honorable company. Can’t recommend them highly enough.
