FAQ Frequently Asked Questions

The difference between retractable belt stanchions and a post and rope stanchions lies in their design and functionality. Retractable belt stanchions feature a sleek post with a retractable belt mechanism that can extend and retract as needed, creating a physical barrier. This type of stanchion offers versatility, ease of use, and the ability to quickly modify queue configurations.

On the other hand, post and rope stanchions consist of vertical posts connected by ropes, creating a more traditional and elegant crowd control solution. These stanchions are often used in upscale environments where aesthetics play a significant role, such as theaters, museums, or red carpet events.

Depending upon the model chosen, our posts can be made of Aluminum, Steel or PVC.

Depending upon the model chosen, our bases come in Cast Iron (the strongest and most weather resistant of our bases), Cement (the lower cost alternative), Plastic or Recycled Rubber (perfect for outdoor situations). For more information visit our Base Information Page.

Our belt lengths are available in 7.5′, 9′, 10′, 15′ & 30′ and are model specific.

Standard sizes range from 2′ – 10′. Overall length should include opening distance plus 3″ for sag (droop). Maximum recommended rope length is 6′ (72″) for post applications and 10′ (120″) for wall applications.

Ropes longer than 10′ are available. Custom quote is required.

Enhanced Stability, durability, and longevity:

• Unlike cement bases that can crack or chip over time, cast iron bases provide a solid and sturdy foundation for your stanchions.

Easy Maintenance:

• Maintaining cast iron bases is hassle-free. Unlike cement bases that may require frequent repairs, cast iron bases are low-maintenance. Simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. Their durable finish ensures resistance to scratches and scuffs, allowing them to retain their appearance even after prolonged use.

Want to learn more? Read our blog “The benefits of Using Cast Iron Bases For Your Stanchions” or watch this humorous, yet informative video.

Tips to keep your smallest guests safe (and crowd control equipment in tact) at amusement parks, zoos, trampoline facilities, children’s museums, aquariums and more.

Effective crowd control is crucial in any busy environment. Using a combination of the right product selection and regular maintenance can help maintain children’s safety, as well as keep your crowd control equipment in top shape.

Product Selection: Select Standard or Value Series RETRACTA-BELT^® Posts in place of low cost / economy stanchions.

Visiontron PRIME stanchions and accessories are intended for lighter traffic, low-abuse environments such as bank queue lines. We strongly recommend using standard RETRACTA-BELT series stanchions for child-friendly environments, since they are built to withstand the wear-and-tear in airports and stadiums. Click here to view all our RETRACTA-BELT styles.

For an economically priced stanchion that will hold up in child-friendly areas, the Value Series is the ideal option. These posts are made of the same construction and quality as our standard RETRACTA-BELT series, but package pricing and reduced options keep the price down. Click here for more information on Value Series RETRACTA-BELT stanchions.

Extra-Heavy Baseweights provide more stability, preventing children from pulling posts down.

Nearly all RETRACTA-BELT stanchions are available with an Extra-Heavy 30 lbs. Baseweight for added stability and are much more difficult to pull over. For easy transport with these heavy bases, we also recommend adding wheels to the base. The wheels engage only when the post is titled backwards and pushed, and will not cause the post to move while flat on the ground. Click here to view more information on the Extra-Heavy Baseweight and wheels.

Consider fixed or semi-permanent RETRACTA-BELT stanchions instead of portable bases.

We have four permanent or semi-permanent mounting options for our stanchions. These prevent the posts from being shifted throughout the day from children pushing or leaning on the posts. The MINI-SOCKET® mount is especially useful for child-friendly environments because it is spring-loaded, so posts lean about 10 degrees to absorb impact. Click here to view fixed and semi-permanent mounting options.

Dual-line RETRACTA-BELT stanchions offer additional security in queue lines for small children.

The standard height of a single line RETRACTA-BELT is 40″ and small children can easily walk under the belts while in a queue line. Dual line RETRACTA-BELT stanchions feature a second belt at 20″ above the ground, providing an extra layer of security. Click here to view single and dual line stanchions.

Consider rigid Q-PANEL® barrier systems in place of RETRACTA-BELT queue systems.

Q-PANEL systems eliminate the need for a belt in the post, and instead provide a structural barrier in its place. While children can pull on the belts and cause damage or wear-and-tear, beams are heavy-gauge aluminum and are less tempting to play with. Beams have safe radius edges and seamlessly integrate with RETRACTA-BELT stanchions and receiver posts. Click here for more information on rigid barriers.

Metal Post Caps

Children can play with the plastic post caps and twist them, breaking the connection where the screws connect to the post. This results in the spring case breaking or other damage. Metal post caps prevent this tampering.

Use Sign Stands instead of post-mount signage.

Freestanding Sign Stands are more difficult for children to tamper with than signs and sign frames mounted onto posts. Click here to learn about our Sign Posts and Sign Stands.

Use Removable Designer Series Sign Frames instead of threaded post-mounted signage.

Our Removable Designer Series Sign Frames slide in and out of the sign post top and are less prone to damage than threaded post-mount sign frames if constantly swiveled and played with. Click here to view our Designer Series Sign Frames.

Maintenance:

Inspect all products weekly.

The sooner you detect a problem, the better. Sometimes an inexpensive solution or replacement part can significantly increase the life of the post.

Retract the belts into the post when they are not in use.

If the belt is not needed, retract it so it stays inside the post. Children won’t be tempted to play with the belt, and will reduce creasing.

Always utilize the lock on belts and beams.

All belts include a red slide action manual locking belt clip. Beams are available with an optional Locking EZ Off End Blocks. We recommend always locking belts and beams into place to prevent accidental release.