Boom Barrier vs Road Blocker:
Entry Control or Total Vehicle Denial?
Posted by Secure India | Updated: July 11, 2025
Controlling vehicle access at sensitive locations is crucial for both safety and security. Two of the most commonly used systems are boom barriers and road blockers — but they serve very different purposes. This blog helps you choose the right solution for your security infrastructure.
What is a Boom Barrier?
Boom barriers, also known as boom gates, consist of a long mechanical arm that lifts to allow or block vehicle passage. They are widely used at toll booths, parking lots, and gated communities for regulating flow rather than stopping threats. Boom barriers offer fast operation and a cost-effective way to manage authorized vehicle entry.
What is a Road Blocker?
Road blockers are robust steel platforms that rise from the ground to physically block vehicles. Powered by hydraulic or electromechanical systems, road blockers are designed for maximum impact resistance and are often crash-tested to international standards like PAS 68, IWA 14, or ASTM. They are the go-to choice for high-threat zones.
Where Are They Used?
- Boom Barriers: Commercial parking lots, residential communities, toll plazas, business parks
- Road Blockers: Military bases, airports, embassies, power plants, data centers
Comparison Table
| Feature | Boom Barrier | Road Blocker |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Traffic control | Vehicle threat denial |
| Crash Rating | Not crash-rated | Tested to PAS 68, IWA 14, ASTM |
| Speed | 2–4 seconds | 1–2 seconds |
| Durability | Moderate | Very High |
| Installation Cost | Low to Medium | High |
If your objective is efficient entry control in low-security areas, boom barriers are the ideal solution. For high-security zones that require vehicle denial and crash resistance, road blockers are the superior choice.
