CT Logo

In the world of traffic management, safety is paramount. One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked is the importance of safety fencing. Safety fencing plays a significant role in ensuring the well-being of both pedestrians and motorists alike. There are different types of safety fencing available, each designed to cater to specific needs and requirements. One commonly used type of safety fencing is chain link fencing. This type of fencing consists of interwoven metal wires, creating a sturdy and durable barrier.

A chain-link fence is a type of fence made of steel wire and has a zig-zag pattern of wires. Amongst all, the chain-link fence is one of the most common metal fences preferred widely. It consist of posts, rails, fittings and related hardware creating a framework which in turn supports a chain-link mesh that is stretched and attached to it. Each of the components in chain-link fence comes in a different range of weight, thickness and coating that can meet the requirements and address a variety of specification.

How Chain Link Fencing Enhances Road Safety

Chain link fencing enhances road safety by acting as a barrier to prevent unauthorized access to high-risk areas, protect vulnerable road users from vehicle intrusion, and mitigate wildlife-vehicle collisions. It also improves visibility for drivers by clearly marking road boundaries, and in the event of a vehicle crash, can help minimize damage and reduce injuries. 

Highway safety: Danger is always expected on unguarded highways from animals. To evade this kind of dangers, highways and motor ways are today being reinforced with a chain link fence along the way. This fencing keep away animals and human interference with highways reducing the risk of collisions and ensures a smooth flow of traffic.

Marks boundaries: High-visibility chain link fences can mark roadside boundaries, dangerous curves, and steep drops, helping drivers stay aware of potential hazards and reducing accidents. Chain link fencing also creates a clear, protective barrier to delineate the boundaries between road lanes and pedestrian or cyclist paths. This helps prevent vulnerable road users from inadvertently moving into the path of traffic. 

Wildlife mitigation: On highways that pass through or near wildlife habitats, chain link fences serve as a critical barrier to prevent animals from wandering onto the roadway. This significantly decreases the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions, which protects both drivers and animals.

Protects bridge users: Chain link fencing is used on bridges for safety, acting as a barrier to prevent people and vehicles from falling off, and to protect vulnerable road users on pedestrian overpasses.

Stabilizes slopes and embankments: Chain link fencing can reinforce roadside embankments and slopes to prevent erosion and landslides that could spill debris onto the road. Fences can serve as a barrier to catch roadside debris and prevent it from obstructing traffic or causing accidents. The flexible nature of chain link fencing allows it to be installed securely on slopes, hills, and other uneven ground where other fencing may fail.

Road construction zones: Chain link fencing is easy to install and dismantle, making it ideal for temporary use at road construction sites. It secures the area to protect construction workers and the public by preventing unauthorized access. The mesh design also maintains visibility for site supervision.

Delineates paths and controls access: By clearly delineating the boundaries between roads and pedestrian or cyclist paths, chain link fencing safeguards vulnerable road users from the dangers of encroaching vehicles. In urban parks or areas with high foot traffic, fences create clear boundaries between recreational areas and busy roadways, preventing children and pets from wandering into the street.

Popular Styles of Chain Link Fences

Galvanized Chain-Link Fencing: It is the most popular style of chain link fencing. Coated with a layer of zinc to prevent rusting, galvanized chain-link fences are durable and cost-effective. They have a traditional metallic finish. It can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor applications and for large area.

PVC-Coated Chain Link Fence: PVC coated chain links offers all the benefits of galvanised chain link fencing with the added advantage of enhanced weather resistance and high visibility, making it perfect for highways and areas requiring clear demarcation. The PVC coating adds significant corrosion resistance, extends the fence's lifespan, and allows for various colour options, improving its appearance and suitability for different applications.

Pros of Chain-Link Fencing

Affordability

Chain link fencing is cost-effective. It is generally more affordable compared to other fencing materials such as wood, wrought iron or aluminum. This affordability comes from both the cost of materials and the ease of installation & maintenance. Additionally, because of their durability and minimal maintenance needs, chain link fences offer excellent long-term value and a low cost of ownership.

Durability and Longevity

When installed correctly, chain-link fencing is highly durable and can remain sturdy and functional over long periods of time. The steel material withstands external pressures such as strong winds and impacts, making it a great choice for areas prone to extreme weather conditions.

Enhanced Security and Visibility

Chain link fences act as a formidable barrier, deterring unauthorized access to restricted areas such as construction zones, wildlife habitats, and private properties along highways. High-visibility chain link fences help drivers maintain awareness of roadside boundaries, dangerous curves, and potential hazards, significantly reducing accidents.

Quick and Easy Installation

Chain link fencing is quick and ease of install. Because most chain link fences come in pre-made panels, they can be installed relatively quickly and with minimal effort. Additionally, chain link fencing is easy to adjust or expand if the area or demarcation changes, such as adding more space or upgrading the security measures.

Low Maintenance

Chain-link fences are incredibly low-maintenance. They do not require regular painting, staining, or sealing like other fence types. A simple occasional wash with water is sufficient to keep them clean and looking good. Should any section of the fence get damaged, the repair is straightforward and cost-effective, as damaged parts can be replaced without affecting the rest of the fence.