CONSTRUCTION HOARDING: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW.

18 September 2024 / Sabre Hoarding Systems

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In the world of construction, safety and security are paramount. One of the most important tools available to contractors in delivering this is construction hoarding. Whether you've passed by a jobsite in a bustling city, noticed a new residential project in a leafy suburb, or driven through a behemouth civil project along a highway, hoarding is a crucial element to any one of these types of construction projects.

WHAT IS IT?

Hoarding refers to a temporary barrier between any ongoing construction activity and the public space. It prevents unauthorized access, shields the site from public view, and helps control the flow of people around potentially hazardous areas. Hoarding is not only a safety requirement, but a legal one across most North American municipalities for delivering vital protection to both construction workers and the general public.

PURPOSE

Construction hoarding serves several important purposes, including:

1. SAFETY: Construction sites are full of potential hazards, from heavy machinery, sharp tools, uneven surfaces and various forms of debris. Hoarding keeps the public at a distance and controls movement around a jobsite, as well as limiting access to authorized personnel only.

   
   

2. SECURITY: The construction industry is powered by great people. But it also relies on very expensive equipment and materials to support projects, which attracts both theft and vandalism. Hoarding offers protection to both unauthorized access and theft, and can be tailored to meet specific risks uniqe to each jobsite.

   
   

3. PRIVACY: It is often amazing to witness the progression of construction projects. But unsightly job sites can be a cause of complaint, particularly in high residential areas or prominent urban locations. Hoarding can help conceal ongoing projects from the public and preserve the aesthetic appeal of a surrounding area.

   
   

4. SITE ORGANIZATION: Hoarding sets out the projects perimeter and can define any internal boundaries to make for a more efficient workspace. Panels can also be mounted with any wayfinding or safety messaging to guide workers and visitors around a job site safely.

   
   

TYPES OF HOARDING

1. IN-GROUND SYSTEMS: A popular choice for large and longstanding projects, in-ground systems are anchored into the ground for additional stability and durability.

   
   

2. SURFACE MOUNTED SYSTEMS: An above ground barrier system which does not require anchoring into the ground. These self-supporting systems are held in place by concrete blocks and mounted with fully customizable panels. This solution is perfect for both short and long-term projects which require minimal environmental or ground disturbance, such as urban areas, protected spaces, or indoor jobsites.

   
   

3. BARRIER MOUNTED SYSTEMS: Ideal for densely populated urban or high-traffic areas, hoarding systems can be mounted on concrete, or jersey, barriers, for additional protection and vertical site security. This is another system which requires zero ground distrubance.

   
   

4. ENVIRONMENTAL HOARDING: Fully reusable hoarding systems with panels made from recycled plastics. In-ground or surface mounted, environmental hoarding presents a sustainable and cost-effective alternative, while maintaining the strength, security and branding opportunities offered by traditional hoarding systems.

   
   

MORE THAN A BARRIER

At Sabre, we believe that construction hoarding can be more than a barrier. With creativity and strategic planning, it can become a valuable asset. Here are some of the additional benifits of construction hoarding:

1. BLANK CANVAS FOR MARKETING & BRANDING: Hoarding offers unmatched marketing and branding opportunities. Through custom graphics, paint or signage, construction companies can use it to showcase future developments, generate excitement about a project, or promote their brand.

   
   

2. PUBLIC ART & ENGAGEMENT: We believe that an ongoing project forms part of a community. Construction hoarding can enhance the appeal of a job site for the surrounding community. Municipalities across Canada are embracing street art and murals, particularly collaboration with local artists in creating eye-catching and vibrant designs, which can establish a sense of community pride and ownership towards a new build.

   
   

3. VISION SHARING: Hoarding presents the ideal platform to keep the public and community informed on timelines, project details and renderings of the finished product. This information can foster a sense of involvement and excitement towards a project.

   
   

4. MESSAGING & WAYFINDING: Construction hoarding can serve as a tool for conveying critical and wayfinding information. Clear and visually appealing signage further add to the professional and aesthetic appeal of a project whilst minimizing disruption and enhancing safety on and around a jobsite.

REGULATIONS

Hoarding regulations may vary depending on the location and type of project you are taking on. Generally speaking, most municipalities across North America require some form of hoarding on all types of construction for the purposes of deliniation and protecting public safety. In order to meet specific requirements, always check local bylaws prior to the start of every project or contact our team for industry leading advice and best practices.

CONCLUSION

Construction hoarding is much more than a temporary barrier around a construction site. It is a multi-functional tool that delivers safety, security and organization to a project, which also allows companies to boost brand awareness, engage with the community and adopt innovative, sustainable practices. When done right, construction hoarding not only protects, but also promotes, informs and inspires.

Sabre Hoarding Systems

Securing builds. Building visibility.

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