We identified a need for a unique type of barricade in safety spaces and sought to address that need. We aimed to develop products that were durable, reliable, portable, easily recyclable, and, above all, safe. We sought a more environmentally friendly alternative to the most common barricade materials. We found that high-density polyethylene (HDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) fit the bill. Using plastic as our material of choice ensures that we can provide premium safety products at affordable prices – barricades that increase the safety of any site they reside at.

Read more about the history of plastic barricades here.

Plastic barricades are designed to last a long time, reducing waste. They’re made from durable plastics like HDPE, MDPE, and LLDPE, which can be recycled many times. When they reach the end of their life, they can be turned into new products. Using recyclable plastic also helps reduce the need for new raw materials, making it a more eco-friendly choice than single-use or less durable barriers.

Read about the different types of polyethylene plastics and their sustainability here.

Each one of our barricades is designed to last a minimum of eight years with proper care. Our plastic barricades are designed to withstand the test of time, even in harsh weather conditions.

The biggest factor that affects a plastic barricade’s lifespan is sunlight. Over time, ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can fade colors and weaken the plastic. To help slow this process, we add UV stabilizers during manufacturing. These help protect the material and keep the barricades stronger for longer!

We also recommend proper care and storage. When not in use, store them out of direct sunlight. If you use water for ballast, be sure to empty and dry them before storing. And if you lose a fill cap or drain plug, don’t worry – we have replacements available.

Yes, absolutely! Find our recycling guide here.

Yes, OTW barricades are manufactured to be ballast-capable! We recommend water ballasting as per the instructions for your specific barricade choice, but sand is also an option. (Don’t forget to empty your barricades before placing them in long-term storage to help keep them in good shape!)

We love to see our barricades in action both indoors and out! They are made of sturdy, durable high-density polyethylene (HDPE), medium-density polyethylene (MDPE), and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) that is gentle on most indoor floors but will withstand extreme weather of all kinds when used outside.

Yes, we can provide both discounts and wholesale pricing when you work directly with an OTW expert.

For best practice, we recommend filling your barricades in place. Set the barricades in their final location, measure out the appropriate amount of ballast (in most cases, water), and fill from the top fill cap (ensuring that the drain cap is closed).

Water is the most common ballast for our barricades. It’s easy to fill and drain, making it great for temporary or seasonal use.

For more permanent uses, you can also use sand or pea gravel. These materials are heavier than water and provide extra stability.

• Water weighs about 62 pounds per cubic foot.
• Sand or pea gravel weighs around 95 – 100 pounds per cubic foot.

Keep in mind, however, that sand and gravel are much harder to remove from the barricade once filled.

In short, no, we do not recommend moving OTW traffic or construction barricades after they are filled with water or sand. Doing so can damage the barricade and will void the warranty.

When filled, these barricades weigh hundreds of pounds. Lifting them while full puts too much stress on certain parts of the plastic. Even if you can’t see it right away, this stress can weaken the internal supports and can lead to bulging, leaks, or cracks, even after just one move.

For best results, always place the barricade in its final location before filling. This helps keep it strong, safe, and long-lasting.

Find our ballast guide here.

Yes! Our OTW42 LCD Barricade has been crash-tested and approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for use as a longitudinal channelizing barricade.

In 2007, it passed the National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Report 350 test level 3-71 criteria, which evaluates how work zone traffic control devices perform when hit by a passenger car at 100 km/h. The FHWA issued acceptance memo WZ-255 confirming its approval for use on the National Highway System.

It’s essential to understand that these barricades are designed as channelizers to guide vehicles safely through work zones, rather than as barriers that contain or redirect crashes, such as a guardrail or concrete barrier. This distinction is very important, so if you’re not sure, give us a call and we’ll gladly review your project requirements with you and help you source exactly what you need.

Generally speaking, you will often find several different types of plastic barricades at construction sites and in traffic zones. Longitudinal channelizing devices (LCDs) are common for channelizing lanes and directing traffic, as are drums or barrels and vertical delineators. LCD or Jersey barricades are also used as hazard indicators or perimeter security at many sites.

For those who use OTW barricades, the Billboard Barricade is also an excellent choice for temporary perimeters for a quick job or as a hazard indicator (don’t forget to include signage!).