/ By Gateway Team / gate security • gates/ 0 Comments

8 Ways Gates Can Benefit and Protect Your Business

8 Ways Gates Can Benefit and Protect Your Business

Living in a digital age, many businesses are focused on improving their online security, but it is important not to forget about your physical security.

Perimeter security and access control are critical to protecting your business from organised and opportune criminals. Strong security systems are required to prevent unauthorised access and to keep your assets and personnel safe.

The most effective security solution for your business should include a number of systems, and gates should be one of them. Read on to find out how gates can benefit and protect your business.

Physical deterrent

Gates and barriers are a strong deterrent against crime, physically preventing criminals from accessing your site and committing theft or causing damage to your property.

Visual deterrent

Not only do security gates act as a physical deterrent, making it harder for trespassers to enter your business premises, but they also act as a visual deterrent. If criminals see that your premises are well protected, they are less likely to attempt to break in.

Cost-effective

Having automatic gates means that there is less of a need for security personnel as access can be controlled by systems, therefore saving you money and resources.

Greater control

Features such as code locks, pin pads, intercom systems, cameras, and number plate recognition can be used in conjunction with gates to make it easier to control and monitor who accesses your site.

Privacy

As well as offering security, gates also offer privacy. This is essential for businesses that operate in sensitive areas or highly competitive fields. It also means that passers-by cannot get good visuals on the premises, making it difficult for criminals to plan an attack.

Return on investment

Perimeter security is an active investment in the future of your business. Gates can help to secure valuable inventory against theft and damage, saving you money in the long run as you will not need to invest in new stock and equipment to replace stolen or damaged goods.

Lower insurance

Investing in security gates can help to keep your insurance premiums down, as they enhance your security thus reducing the chances of a claim being made.

As the risk of someone illegally entering your property will be lower, the risk for your insurance company will be lower, which means they may offer you a better price.

Legal compliance

As well as offering physical security, gates help to ensure that you are complying with relevant legal requirements by protecting personnel and following health and safety standards.

Here at Gateway Automation, we offer a wide range of gates and barriers. All of our automated gates comply with BS/EN 12453, which is the current legislation that all automated gates must comply with.

For professional help and advice with effectively securing your business premises, get in touch with our team of experts at Gateway Automation on 01522 682255, or email info@gatewayautomation.co.uk.

With over 40 years of combined experience and expertise, Gateway Automation offers a value-for-money service with well-engineered and high-quality security systems and barriers, manufactured to your specific requirements.

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Sliding Gates vs Swinging Gates

sliding gates vs swinging gates

When it comes to perimeter defences, the first thing that will likely jump to mind is the image of a security gate, and rightly so. Security gates are often the first line of defence for many businesses when it comes to keeping intruders away, establishing a strong perimeter, and sending out a message to criminals.

However, when planning defences for a site, or considering upgrading your existing measures, it’s important to think carefully about your needs and your site capabilities. Let’s take a look at two of the most popular options of gates and how they compare.

Swinging Gates

Swinging Gates are an excellent option for many businesses. As the name suggests they swing open and shut in a wide arc. Often priced cheaper than sliding gates, they typically don’t include motors or electronics. Swinging gates don’t require concrete work or steel beams, they are low maintenance and make little noise during operation. This means that they are well-suited to isolated or rural sites, or large expansive sites where access to the grid is more limited.

If considering swinging gates as a solution for your site, you should think carefully about the available space on your premises. Swinging gates need enough space to open internally and externally in a wide arc and so might not be suitable for some sites where space is at a premium. They might also be less suited if you have particular needs for high-tech upgrades such as access control equipment or other electronic support.

Sliding Gates

If you are looking for gates at a site where space is less readily available then sliding gates may be a more sensible solution. Rather than opening and closing in an arc, sliding gates slide in and out along a track or trackless cantilever system, which both employ less of a footprint.

Sliding gates are often seen in more commercially-led settings, entrances, and residential driveways. They can be employed on rough ground and even on sloping ground if required. They are a good choice if you operate in a setting that has high-wind speeds and other unpredictable weather factors.

Unlike swing gates, sliding gates can be upgraded with access control equipment such as electronic keys, cards, fingerprint biometric readers and intercoms. These additions will always make a site more secure, however, they do come with added costs.

Get in touch

Arranging effective perimeter security is not something that you should go at alone. No matter the size or nature of your business, we can provide you with a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess the security requirements of your organisation. For more information on any of the security options above, or for further advice on how to protect your business premises from criminals, please contact us here or call us on 01522 682 255.

 

/ By admin / gate security • gates • perimeter security/ / 0 Comments

Should my business install Pedestrian gates?

Pedestrian Gate When it comes to security gates, a large degree of attention is typically given to vehicular gates and managing the traffic that arrives at a site. While this is very important and needs to be given full consideration, it would be unwise to neglect pedestrian traffic. Crime comes in many shapes and forms, and it is important for businesses in the modern environment to be able to maintain effective control over their entry and exit routes at all times, and avoid the presence of unwanted visitors who may seek to exploit vulnerabilities. However, not all businesses are the same, and while pedestrian gates may be suitable for some, there may be other situations where alternative forms of security are better suited. Let’s take a brief overview to discover more.

Managing pedestrian traffic

There are a variety of different tools at your disposal when it comes to managing pedestrian traffic. Turnstiles, and barriers can be used to prevent tailgating for instance. They can be fitted with access control enhancements such as tokens, pins, or fob systems, or manned by a physical security officer to check credentials and approve access. Elsewhere, access control equipment like intercom systems might be used with controllers able to grant or deny entry from a remote location. Pedestrian gates are another tool that can be added to your arsenal.

Pedestrian gates

Pedestrian gates can be deployed at your site at key entry and exit points to bolster your protection against crime, and manage visitation. Pedestrian gates can be operated manually with fittings for padlocks, or fitted with magnetic locks and self-closers for automated use. For safety, they should be fitted with self-monitoring safety edges and twin photocells as standard, and can also be enhanced with flashing beacons and sounder capabilities. Pedestrian gates allow you to effectively shut off access to unwanted visitors who might otherwise infiltrate your property, causing damage, stealing assets, or impacting your business in other negative ways. By installing a pedestrian gate, you prevent this from happening, protect your business, and also show your employees and clients that you care about their well-being. Pedestrian gates allow you to control exactly who is allowed to enter your site. Although a large degree of this consideration should be geared around preventing crime, it also allows you to prevent nuisance callers, cold callers, and other types of distracting visitation. Of course, it is important to think about the suitability of a pedestrian gate for your company. If your business operates in a customer-facing environment, that aims to be open, approachable and friendly then a pedestrian gate may look too authoritative. In which case a turnstile may be a more appropriate option. However, even in these types of settings, there may be occasions where a pedestrian gate can be properly utilised without negatively impacting on the aesthetic of your business. Such as using a pedestrian gate to lock off a warehouse area, stock storage area, or another part of your site that is highly sensitive or holds high-value goods. Equally, you might wish to use a pedestrian gate to limit access to a rear yard, or bicycle shed.

First Steps

The first step when it comes to deciding your perimeter security measures should be to seek a risk assessment from an experienced and professional company. This is a sure-fire way to know that you are getting the most value out of your investment, and protecting your business in the most efficient way you can. Gateway Automation is a nationwide manufacturer and installer of perimeter security systems and devices. We undertake civil and electrical site preparation and automate existing perimeter security devices and equipment throughout the UK. For a free, non-obligation quotation please contact us on 01522 682 255 or visit our website for further information: http://www.gatewayautomation.co.uk/.
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Benefits of Cantilever Gates

Cantilever Gate When it comes to perimeter security, what’s the first tool that pops into your head? For most people it will be the image of either strong security gates or of CCTV cameras mounted high above ground. While CCTV systems can be useful as an accessory to other forms of perimeter security, they aren’t without their drawbacks. CCTV systems can document a crime, but they don’t always prevent one from happening. A robust security gate on the other hand, is one of the best ways of creating a physical barrier to stop criminals in their tracks and prevent a quick getaway. Here at Gateway we offer a range of swing gates, sliding gates and bi-folding gates. Here we will look at cantilever sliding gates and why you might choose one for your business.

What is a cantilever gate?

Where swing gates and manual gates typically open through the middle, automatic sliding gates and cantilevers operate by moving the whole gate to the side of an entrance. The main difference between a standard sliding gate and a cantilever is the track system. Where sliding gates run across a track, a cantilever gate is supported by rollers.

Sending a message

Cantilever gates, and sliding gates are a very clever form of perimeter security. Not only do they send an immediate visual message to would-be intruders that you take security seriously, but they make the practicality of a break in difficult. These types of gates are harder to force open when compared with standard swing gates, and may deter opportunistic theft, especially when integrated as part of a wider perimeter security system.

Space savers

One of the key reasons to choose a cantilever gate is the space that it can save. If your entrance is limited by geographical or physical barriers – meaning a swing gate would not be practical – then a cantilever gate may be more suitable as they run horizontally, allowing you to fully utilise space that would otherwise be lost.

Weather proofing

The supported design of a cantilever gate means that weather conditions are less likely to impact on performance. Particularly during the colder months of the year, sliding gates may need to have ice and snow cleared from their tracks to maintain functionality.

Terrain suitability

Cantilever gates are also suited to a wider range of terrains and there are no problems caused by uneven or bumpy surfaces. This can be particularly useful for sites that are located in rural areas, or in industrial settings. Their supported design allows for this, and also means that they are able to operate on declines and elevations, and also adapt to wider entrances such as those used by heavy-duty vehicles.

Swift Access

In general, cantilever gates can be operated more quickly than traditional sliding gates. This can be particularly useful in settings where rapid access needs to be maintained: such as at hospitals and police stations. Gateway Automation is a nationwide manufacturer and installer of perimeter security systems and devices. We undertake civil and electrical site preparation and automate existing perimeter security devices and equipment throughout the UK. For a free, non-obligation quotation please contact us on 01522 682 255 or visit our website for further information: http://www.gatewayautomation.co.uk/.
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How sliding gates can be ideal for your business

Sliding Gates

Crime, particularly the opportunistic type, all comes down to psychology. Be it a broken lock, an unlocked window, or a lack of security lighting, there are a great many ways that criminals can be swayed into taking their chances on your property. However, they can be dissuaded just as easily, provided you’ve put time and thought into building a robust perimeter. And nothing sets the foundation for that as well as a strong security gate. One of the most popular forms of security gate is the sliding gate and we explain how sliding gates can be ideal for your business.

One excellent solution for businesses looking to secure their entry and exit points is a sliding gate. As the name suggests, sliding gates are wheel-mounted gates that move along a track at the opening of a driveway or the line of a site or property. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of sliding gates when compared with other forms.

Space Saving

Unlike swinging gates, sliding gates do not take up an arc of space, and run horizontally which can be ideal if you have specific obstacles or space limitations that need to be bypassed. They facilitate easy access for approved cars and vehicles who can be confident as to when it is safe for them to move forwards. They can also be a smart solution when entry points are positioned on hills or slopes where other forms of gates may drag against the ground unless opened the opposite way.

Variety of Materials

Swinging gates can be constructed using a variety of different materials. They might be made from iron, wood, steel, aluminium, or composite. However, here at Gateway, we opt for aluminium and steel materials which we find to be the strongest and most resilient options.

Secure

In the past, one of the concerns regarding cantilever sliding gates has been the safety of others. Without proper installation and forethought, gates have resulted in serious accidents. However, customers can be confident in the safety of their tools provided that they choose a Gate Safe provider like Gateway Automation. Gate Safe providers have undergone rigorous training to understand the importance of regular safety checks and proper installation provided by IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health). In addition to this, we fit our sliding gates with several safety devices as standard.

Can be upgraded to meet your needs

Every business is different and while our sliding gates are already built to the highest quality, there may be additional requirements that are important for your business. Our gates can be upgraded with a number of additional extras including razor wire, anti-climb spikes, electric fence, traffic lights, warning sirens, and more. Access can be customised and controlled through keypads, proximity cards, photocells, intercoms, tokens, key switches, and fobs.
Sliding Gates are used in a variety of different businesses across a broad scope of sectors, and provide a professional and practical method of securing entry points. However, your first step should be to discuss your needs with a reputable supplier. After undergoing a proper risk assessment you will be able to ascertain which type of gate is most suitable for your requirements.

Gateway Automation provides free, no-obligation quotes and feasibility surveys for your premises. To assess your security requirements, please contact us here.

/ By Gateway Team / automatic gates • bi-folding gates • gate installation • gates • security gate • sliding gates/ 0 Comments

How to choose the best security gates for your business

05Most businesses need to consider having a security gate installed. Not only does it act as the first line of defence and helps to keep intruders out, it gives staff and business owners peace of mind whilst also creating a great, secure first impression to others whilst also adding value to the business. Before choosing a gate, business owners need to ensure it is the best choice for their business. Here is how to choose the best security gates for your business.

Decide what the goal of the gate is

Although all the gates will provide a level of security, this may not be the primary goal for your business’ gates. Whilst some may have aesthetics as their main goal which will therefore need more research into whilst materials and colours they want to go for, others may have robust security as their primary goal. If this is the case, they may need to choose a gate that can have additional access control measures alongside it to beef up the security as much as possible. Once the primary goal has been discovered, it will help narrow down which options are best suited to your business’ needs.

Choose which type

There are several types of gate to choose from and one size does not fit all so you must do your research before choosing a gate. Here are a few of the main types you can choose from.

Sliding gates – made for areas that have limited surrounding space, these gates slide across to allow vehicle entry. Cantilever sliding gates are suspended across the gate opening with no rollers running on the ground. These are a popular option as they are considered more reliable than tracked gates. Because of this, they are often used for heavy-duty needs such as industrial gate applications. They work well in all weather conditions and are suited to those sites that need high-level security.

Bi-Folding Gates – Bi-folding gates are the ideal solution where the speed of opening and closing is essential but also where space is at a premium. Made from two panels that are hinged together, the panels fold back on themselves to allow access rather than sliding fully across. Usually installed in pairs, one on either side of the gate, these are a great option for many businesses that require the gates to open quickly.

Swing Gates- With one side hinged, these gates swing open like a door would. They can open either in or out depending on where you have the most space to use. As they need space to travel, these are great for businesses that boast a lot of land. Before these gates are installed, you need to ensure you have sufficient space. Oncoming vehicles need space to wait until the gates are fully open and you need to ensure no collisions or damages will occur. Swing gates are great for installing alongside access control equipment and other safety messages and can be a cost-effective option.

Automatic or Manual

The next decision that needs to be made is whether you go for gates that are automatic or manual. Whilst manual gates are a great low-cost option, it is important businesses weigh up the pros and cons. Although manual gates are more budget-friendly, you will need to take into account the time and effort it will take for someone to open the gates manual each time a vehicle needs access. If you have a regular steady flow of vehicles, this may not be feasible. With automatic gates, it withdraws the need to have a security guard

Access Control

There are no many sophisticated options to choose from when it comes to access control. From using electronic keys, or key cards to phone entry or fingerprint biometric readers, the options are vast. The business needs to decide how much budget they have and what level of security is required. Although they are all great options and easy to use, for those sites that need additional security, biometric options will always be the most secure.

Style

Once the practicalities of access control and the type of gate are sorted, it is important to take into account the aesthetic of the gate as well. This is the first thing many people see when they look at your premises and you, therefore, want it to send the correct message. Sometimes businesses want a solid gate with no gaps whilst others opt for a barred / slat design instead. By talking to your provider in advance you should be able to work with them to create a security solution that matches all your needs.

Deciding which type of security gate your business should go for is a big decision. It is the first form of business security that is there to protect your company and you, therefore, need to ensure you are choosing the best fit for your business’ needs. By following the steps stated in this blog, you should be able to narrow down your options and come to the best choice that will do the best job.

/ By Gateway Team / automated gates • gates/ 0 Comments

Automatic Security Gates- How to Choose

Choosing automated gatesWhen it comes to automatic security gates, there is a lot to choose from. To ensure you are making the best decision for your business premises, it is vital that you ask yourself the following questions. Once you have the answers to these questions, you will be happy knowing that you have perimeter security that will suit your exact business needs. 

What is the current traffic level of your site?
Start off by asking yourself how many people are currently exiting and leaving your site and how regularly they are doing so in a 24 hour period. Consider the figures for both off-peak and on-peak times so that you get an accurate number to work with. 

Is this level of traffic likely to increase in the future?
If one of your business goals is to grow, then you will need to consider how this will impact the level of traffic on the site. If you are spending money on the investment of automatic gates, then you should think ahead to ensure they can cope with future levels of traffic. This saves you having to replace the gates a short time down the line. 

How do people access your site?
Is the entrance where you are wanting the place the automatic gates the only entrance to the site? Are people only arriving in vehicles or will there be some people arriving on foot? If the latter is true, then consider whether you should have turnstiles installed alongside the gate for easy pedestrian access and safety.

What style is the property?
Although the most important aspect of an automatic gate is that it provides sufficient security, it is also key to consider how the gate will look aesthetically. You need to ensure that the gate matches the style of the building and doesn’t look out of place. The exterior of a building is what makes the first impression for building, therefore the look of the gate is just as important as it needs to complement the rest of the site.

Do you want the gate to swing or slide?
Both are a popular option but often depend on personal preference and the specific site in question. Swinging gates obviously take up a lot more space, so you need to ensure you have this space available. If you do not, then sliding gates will be better. Whichever you decide, you need to ensure there is enough room for vehicles to fit through. Be especially considerate if you need delivery trucks and vans to fit through. The decision will also depend on what your traffic flow is like. If you need the gates to open on a regular basis, then discuss with your provider how quick each type of gate takes to open and close as this will aid the decision.

Do you need access control?
A great way to enhance your automatic gate is to install access control equipment as it adds an additional layer to your security. You can use keypads for entry to voice or video intercoms. This decision ultimately depends on your needs and your budget but it is still an important thing to consider.

How will you maintain your gates?
Having your security gates installed is only half of it. To ensure they remain in peak condition and provide you with robust security for a longer period, you will need to have the gates maintained on a regular basis. Choosing a manufacturer and installer that also offers servicing and maintenance gives you peace of mind that the automatic gates will be kept working correctly.

Automatic security gates help ensure that your business site remains secure and gives you full control on who is entering or exiting the premises. The questions above are just a few things that you should bear in mind. Thinking about these considerations can help you decide exactly which gates are suitable for the site, leaving you with peace of mind that your site will remain secure and protected from vandalism, theft and more.

What’s Next?
For more information on how Gateway Automation can help keep your premises secure, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.

/ By Gateway Team / access control equipment • arson attacks • barriers • business security • commercial property • gates • vacant properties • vacant property security/ 0 Comments

Securing Empty Property- Commercial Space

Shop to letSecuring empty property can often feel like a waste of money. There’s nothing inside to steal. However, leaving a commercial property vacant for any length of time can be risky. Whether you are having the property renovated or waiting for new occupants, there are some common risks and security measures that you should be aware of.

Here is our guide to securing empty property to ensure your investment remains secure.

1. Reduce Theft

Theft is a main threat for any commercial building left unoccupied. Even if you believe there is nothing to take as the building is empty, there are still many valuable items that thieves tend to target from commercial buildings. Stealing metal-based items for scrap is popular with thieves as lead from roofs, aluminium from heating ducts or copper from wiring can be valuable. Even radiators are regularly stolen as they are often easy to remove from the wall and can be sold on for a good price. Opportunist thieves will not be deterred by a building with little content.

It is not just the stolen materials that commercial property owners need to be concerned about. The theft of these items can lead to damage of the building which will lead to additional costs and potentially more severe issues in the future. For example, removing piping and radiators can lead to leaks, water damage or even pest problems whereas removing the lead from roofs can leave holes in the roof which again could lead to water damage or weather damage. Anything removed from the electrics will also increase the risk of gas leaks or risk of fire.

Although the level of metal theft is decreasing due to legislation updates making it more difficult to sell on metal, it is still a real concern property owners need to be aware of when securing empty property.

2. Stop Arson

Arson is dangerous as not only can it cause significant damage to your property, it can lead to others getting injured as well, especially if there are flammable materials still in the building. It can also quickly spread to surrounding properties and impact other businesses.

If a fire broke out and somebody was injured there may be an investigation into the landlord’s negligence.
Fire should be a concern for any owner looking into securing their empty property.

3. Stop Anti-Social Behaviour

Individuals sometimes break into vacant properties in order to deliberately vandalise the building through graffiti. Although it is relatively easy and cheap to remove it, it doesn’t give off a good image and can lead to other forms of antisocial behaviour. It can also encourage more people to graffiti if some is already visible as it shows that the building is accessible.

Unfortunately, empty commercial buildings can tempt people to use them for a range of anti-social behaviours. From drug use to a temporary toilet, fly-tipping or even dogfighting, the list goes on. Activities like these can quickly cause damage to your property but also impact the surrounding environment and buildings. It can even lead to significant health hazards that you need to be conscious of. Although it is not you that has caused any mess, you will be liable to ensure it is cleaned.

4. Puts an End to Squatting

The law changed in 2012 for squatters of residential properties which made squatting illegal. However, the same rules do not apply for commercial properties. Squatters are defined as people who occupy a property without permission. It remains illegal for people to break into a building, however, if squatters have managed to access the vacant building without causing damage to do so, you will be faced with an even bigger problem. Police can only intervene if damage has occurred.

It is possible to get squatters evicted; however, the process is time-consuming and expensive. In order for it to be done, you would have to go through the civil court system, not the criminal court. This process can be extremely drawn out. During this time, the squatters could be causing damage to your property.

Also consider the land around your property. Illegal occupation can also apply to any land that you own. Some business owners have found travellers on their property.

5. Attract New Business

Having a well-secured commercial property improves the professional appearance. High-security levels can lead to a higher interest in your property. Having a property with broken windows, clear structural damage or graffiti will deter potential tenants.

6. Switch Off Your Utilities

Protect your business by removing anything of potential value. Switch off your gas, electricity and water when the property becomes vacant. This can limit the risk of fires or leaks. Also, prevent access through doors, windows and roofs using boarding. Consider having physical security patrol the building as well as gates and barriers. The more deterrents you implement the better. Plus, having physical security measures as well as CCTV can make a vacant building appear occupied which will be a physical deterrent.

7. Secure all Entry Points to Your Building

To reduce the risk of arson consider boarding up the building with steel screens rather than timber boarding which is flammable.

As a commercial property owner, you have a Duty of Care for anyone entering your property, regardless if you invited them or not. Any injury a person may incur whilst on your property will be your responsibility and increase your liability.
Be proactive as much as possible. Assessing your situation and gain specialist advice.

8. Consider Installing Access Control Systems as an Added Layer of Security

Undertake a health and safety and risk inspection by a professional to gain a full understanding of the risks you need to avoid. Inspect your property on a regular basis. Insurance companies will often want you to check your property at least once a week.

9. Use Perimeter Security around your Plot of Land

Ensure unauthorised vehicles do not access your land by implementing flow plates, barriers or bollards.

Although there will be a cost to protecting an securing empty property, the potential cost saving could be significant. It also gives you the peace of mind that your investment remains as secure as possible at all times.

To find out more about how to protect empty commercial property with physical security, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.

/ By Gateway Team / access • barriers • gates • security/ 0 Comments

Things to consider before buying barriers and gates

Buying barriers or gates can be a big investment, so you need to ensure that you are choosing the best option for your needs. Here are a few questions you should ask yourself before deciding which is best for you to buy.

1.    What level of security do I need?
This is the first question you should ask yourself. The barriers or gates needed will completely depend on the type of business you have and what security you need. If you require the strongest and most secure barriers then these will inevitably cost more, but you need to think about it as a long-term investment and how much they will benefit the business by protecting your assets.

2.    What access do I need?
You need to think carefully about who needs to access your building. Will staff members be needing vehicle access on a regular basis? Do you also need access for delivery vehicles and if so, how regularly? If the answers to these questions are yes then you will need to think of a barrier or gate which is easy and quick to open. Will you have a high number of pedestrians coming onto your premises? If the answer is yes, then you may want to consider the use of turnstiles.

3.    What space do you have available?
Another major thing to consider is what space you have available on your property. Do you actually have the space to install the gates you want? For example, if you are thinking about getting swing gates, you need to consider the extra space required for the gate to open fully.

4.    What is your budget?
For most businesses, you need to stick to a strict budget and although it would be great if money wasn’t a factor, it often is. You need to ensure you get the product you want which meets your needs whilst still being affordable. Again, you need to think of it as an investment and not automatically go for the cheapest option, as it could lead to your property and assets not being as protected as they should be.

5.    Will you have any staff members for security?
If you are planning on having security at your entrance then this will change the type of barrier and gate you want significantly. If you have someone there to open and close the gates and monitor who enters and leaves, then your options will be different.

6.    What do you want them to look like?
Last but not least, you need to ensure that the barriers and gates you choose are secure but also look good and fit in with the rest of your property. You also need to think about what impact you want to make. If you want to make an impression and deter people from entering, then you may go for imposing gates. On the other hand, you may want the property to have a sense of people being welcome when they enter, so you may go for a more subtle option instead. Each business is different.

At the end of the day, each business has its own needs for barriers and gates. They vary significantly depending on the sector you work in and the location of the business. There are many factors that will determine what you require from barriers and gates. They are a big investment for companies, so you need to ensure you choose what is right for you. If you ask yourself the six questions above, then hopefully you will know exactly what you require, and we can help you go through the options available to you.

To find out more about our barriers and gates, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no obligation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.

/ By Gateway Team / barriers • gates/ 0 Comments

Why your business will benefit from barriers and gates

Security is of the upmost importance for businesses and should be a priority. Online security is becoming a main focus for many companies, which is great, but physical security is still just as important. One of the main and most effective methods you can use to help make your premises secure is with the use of barriers. There are many benefits to your business of having barriers which we will discuss now, including that they are easy to install and one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your business in a physical sense.

1.    Barriers can save you money in the long term
Physical security measures should be considered as an investment for the long term of your business. Yes, some options can be costly, however when you consider the potential losses your company can make if you were ever broken in to, then barriers are extremely good value for money. As your business grows the value of your assets also increases and therefore it is important you protect these as soon as possible.

In addition to these, some gate and barrier options come with automated keypads which allow only authorised people in. This reduces the need of having someone physically being part of the security which will significantly lower costs as you will not need to pay them a salary.

2.    Barriers control who enters and exits your premises
Barriers are great at controlling who enters your premises. Although CCTV and other methods can show you who is near your premises, barriers are physical and therefore a must have for most companies. They can be used alongside fences to establish where your boundaries are, ensuring that people understand where this boundary lies. If you have people regularly visiting your premises then you may still need some manned support to help this, however the use of security codes and intercoms help make the entry process both secure and easy.

3.    Barriers act as a deterrent
Not only do barriers physically keep people out when they are trying to enter without authorisation, they can help act as a deterrent and put people off even attempting to enter if they are not allowed. In addition to this, some people accidently trespass on company property if they have not clearly defined where they own. By having barriers and fences, this shows people immediately and will avoid any confusion from innocent people who do not mean any harm. This is especially a problem if your property is near public footpaths or roads where accidental trespassing is likely.

4.    Barriers can improve the image and professionalism of your company
Having sufficient security can show to others that you take your business seriously. By having high quality barriers and gates, you present the image that you care about your assets and want to protect them. This comes across well to employees who will inevitably feel safer working in a more secure environment, but also to people who you are doing business with you. It shows you are a respectable business and it will look good for your brand and reputation as a company.

5.    Barriers are easy to use
Barriers and gates are some of the simplest forms of security but also some of the most effective. They are tried and tested to work well for companies and the fact they are relatively cheap compared to some electrical security solutions makes them an obvious choice. Sometimes all you will need is someone to open and close them at the end of each day.

6.    Barriers can prevent certain types of vehicles entering
Barriers are also a great way to ensure only certain types of vehicles enter your premises, or sections of it. Going to height restrictor barriers can ensure you do not get large vehicles entering and parking. This is great for businesses which have car parking areas. However, you need to ensure that if you do need access to large vehicles for deliveries or other purposes that they have an alternative route for access.

To find out more about what barrier and gate options are available for your business, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no obligation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.