Barrier tape is used to prevent access to certain areas, often for safety reasons. Construction, hazard, crime scene, fireman’s, and barricade tapes are common types. They can be reused and some have innovative features such as rewind wheels.
The primary purpose of all types of barrier tape is to alert people that a particular area is not open for access. In some cases, tape is used to preserve some aspect of the enclosed area. Other times, the primary function is to keep people from exposing themselves to danger of some kind.
Perhaps the most common types of barrier tape that most people come across is construction tape. Barrier tape of this type is used to cordon off an area where construction is in progress. The tape is usually placed so people know to stay a safe distance from the building. Along with new construction sites, this type of tape can be used around buildings slated for demolition or structures undergoing repairs.
Similar to construction tape, hazard tape is also a relatively common site. This type of barrier tape is often employed by utility companies when they are engaged in repairs or some type of work in a particular location. Power companies often use colored tapes of this type to warn people away from a power line that is not working. Road workers can use the tape to temporarily close a road while coping or making other repairs to the road surface. Water companies can use the tape when they need to dig into the ground to access and repair a damaged section of pipe. Since all of these situations are potentially dangerous, using tape is a quick and easy way to warn people to avoid the area.
Law enforcement agencies use a type of tape known as crime scene tape. The tape is often used to block entry into an area where a crime has been committed. This helps prevent what could be crucial evidence from being accidentally contaminated or destroyed, thus increasing the chances of identifying and apprehending the perpetrator of the crime. In most jurisdictions, crossing a crime scene or police tape without proper authorization is often punishable by anything from a fine to arrest.
Fireman’s tape serves much the same purpose as hazard tape. With this type of barrier tape, the idea is to keep people from getting too close to an area where a fire is currently raging. There are two ways tape is useful. First, it minimizes the chances of bystanders being injured by debris or smoke inhalation. Second, it helps maintain a clean entry and exit from the area that can be used for rescue vehicles and to bring in additional firefighting equipment if needed.
Barricade tape is often used along parade routes. The tape helps mark out the parade route, serving as a warning to drivers not to attempt to use those roads until the parade concludes. Barrier tape of this type is usually bright in color, making it easy for people to see the tape long before they arrive at a temporarily inaccessible intersection.
In many cases, barrier tape can be reused. Most tapes are made from durable synthetic materials and can be rolled up for use at a later date. A recent innovation in barrier tape products is known as a rewind wheel. Essentially, the device retracts any dispensed section of tape at the touch of a button, functioning much like a retractable tape measure.
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