Retractable stanchions are a welcome addition to any business or event that requires crowd control in a non-intrusive fashion. Easy to operate, retractable belt stanchions are perfect for their versatility and efficiency. Before you buy retractable belt stanchions for your workplace, however, you’ll need to know a few things first.
Have a Look in Mind
At what kind of event or business do you need crowd control? Is it an elegant club or an outdoor family event? There are different styles of stanchions done up in different finishes. The belts come in a variety of colors as well, so take a good look at what’s available and see how they match up with what you need.
Consider the Length You’ll Need
When you order stanchions, they come in a variety of belt lengths. Imagine where they’re going to be located within your establishment, how long the lines should be, and use that as an estimate for the length of the belts you’ll require. Also keep in mind, the longer the belt, the fewer stanchions you’ll need. That’s convenient for longer lines, but you lose some versatility.
It Must Feel Solid
You can spend less for some retractable belt stanchions, but if you feel it and it seems flimsy, then it is. Since crowd control is a stanchion’s function, you’ll want it to be able to withstand crowds, and the heavy use that comes with it. Also, be sure the base is wide enough to avoid tipping over. Something on the order of 12 inches for a 3-foot stanchion or 14 inches for a 40-inch stanchion is the minimum of what you should expect.
Mind the Belt Ends
Do you already have stanchions on hand that you’re adding to? If this is the case, make sure the belt ends of the new stanchions you’re buying match those of the old stanchions you have. The last thing you want are two groups of stanchions that can’t fit together. If these are your first stanchions, make sure they have the universal belt ends. This will insure that they can work with most other brands.
Once you have your new stanchions in the style and length you like, bring them back to work and set them up. And then wait for the crowds, because you know you can handle them.
