Speed Humps And Their Use | Venture Plastics Distributors

Different Speed Humps and When to Use Them

Decoding the Humps and Bumps of Speed Management

Did you know there is a difference between speed bumps and speed humps?

They both address the common issue of reducing vehicle speed, although through different distinct designs and for diverse applications which we take you through below. Plus, both kinds must be clearly visible to motorists at night or day and in low-light weather conditions.

Although they both have definite differences (which we detail below), we need to note upfront that the truth is that the phrases are mostly used interchangeably. So, if you chat with most that use, supply or manufacture one of these kinds, further description will be needed.

That’s why we created this blog, to help you determine:

  • the difference between speed bumps and humps
  • which kind of speed hump is right for your application
  • which design you prefer
  • are armed with the right details when procuring what you need

The Difference Between Speed Bumps and Speed Humps

Speed Bumps And Their Use | Venture Plastics Distributors

Speed Bumps

Speed Bumps are generally longer, and slightly lower in height compared to speed humps. They are most often made with metal and asphalt, concrete or rubber and must be installed by a municipality-approved contractor.

In South Africa, as outlined by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), it’s recommended that rounded speed bumps should be 3.7 metres long and between 80mm and 120mm high, depending on how much they are supposed to restrict speed.

The higher the asphalt or concrete municipality speed bump, the greater the speed restriction. With a height of 80mm vehicles should be slowed down to 50km/h. Elevating the height to 120mm further reduces the maximum allowable speed to 30km/h.

While each municipality establishes its own criteria for speed humps, adherence to these general recommendations is typically observed on paper. For instance, the City of Johannesburg recommends rounded asphalt or concrete speed humps with a width of 4 meters and a maximum height of 75mm.

Despite their seemingly straightforward construction, speed bumps are surprisingly costly to build when implemented correctly. For example, as mentioned by Sean Glass, the City of Cape Town’s Transport network and facilitation manager in 2017, a single hump costs between R20,000 to R25,000 to construct, with a turnaround time of around two days. (As published by News24)

Due to expenses, potential drawbacks, and road compatibility issues, securing city funding for speed bump installations becomes a challenging process. Many local governments mandate residents to submit thorough applications through ward councillors for speed bump consideration in their areas.

Rubber Speed Bumps

Our Rubber Speed Bumps, with a height of 50mm, are made of durable rubber, providing a long-lasting solution to help control vehicle speed on your property.

With a length of 0.5m per block, you can easily customise the size of your speed humps to fit the needs of your property. Simply add more blocks to create longer-speed humps or use fewer blocks for shorter ones.

They are a great option for areas with strict noise regulations, as they are quieter than traditional asphalt speed bumps. They are also durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for use in a range of different environments and climates, including:

  • residential neighbourhoods (including complexes and estates)
  • school zones
  • hospitals
  • factories and industrial sites
  • shopping centres
  • airports and aprons
  • parks
  • any other parking lots

They are also designed to be easy to install, so you can get them up and running quickly.

Rubber Speed Bumps And Their Use | Venture Plastics Distributors
Speed Humps versus Speed Bumps | Venture Plastics Distributors

Speed Humps

In contrast, speed humps are slightly taller and designed to keep vehicles under speeds of 30 km/ph.

They are rapidly emerging as alternative solutions to traditional asphalt speed bumps as they are easier and much more affordable to install. This is why they have become the preferred choice for roads that are not public, like parking lots, private businesses and residential estates, and more.

Keep reading to delve into the different kinds of speed humps offered by us at Venture Plastics Distributors.

The Different Kinds of Venture Plastics Distributors Speed Humps

Dome Speed Humps And Their Use | Venture Plastics Distributors

Dome Speed Humps

Dome Speed Humps, with a height of 60mm, represent an innovative safety tool with various features. These include customisable size options for specific road or parking lot needs, an anti-slip design for enhanced safety in adverse weather, and a durable construction made from galvanized high-impact steel.

Their high-contrast design ensures enhanced visibility, contributing to the overall effectiveness of speed control. Additionally, the easy installation process is engineered for simplicity to minimize downtime and disruption.

Dome Speed Humps prove to be an effective and adaptable solution for diverse environments, including:

  • Junctions
  • Crossings
  • Loading areas
  • Factories
  • Industrial sites
  • Office parks
  • Airports
  • Shopping centres
  • Dangerous bends
  • Vehicle parking areas
  • Residential spaces, including complexes and estates

Pyramid Speed Humps

They are made from durable and weather-resistant materials, ensuring long-lasting performance even in challenging environments and are 60mm high.

The primary purpose of Pyramid Speed Humps is to control vehicle speed and improve safety in areas where pedestrian and vehicle traffic intersects.

They are engineered to adapt and be supple so they can absorb vehicle shocks. However, if speeds surge, it transforms into a semi-rigid shield, delivering a controlled “bump.”

Tailored for minimal noise impact, this solution is suitable for:

  • Residential areas (including complexes and estates)
  • Factories
  • Industrial sites
  • Airports
  • Shopping centres
  • Vehicle parking areas
Pyramid Speed Humps And Their Use | Venture Plastics Distributors

Turning ‘Bumps in the Road’ Into ‘Humps in the Road’

At Venture Plastics Distributors, we always strive to provide affordable yet safe and trustworthy solutions and information. Our range of speed humps and bumps are no exception.

Meaning, sometimes facing a ‘hump in the road’ is a really good thing.

Important Note

It is important to note that Venture Plastics Distributors’ speed humps and bumps are a maximum height of 60mm, as preferred by most clients.

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010 023 7178

10 Log Road, Roodekop, Germiston, Gauteng 1422

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