A manual gate system does not meet the security needs of commercial properties. Staff should not have to deal with three people opening the gate every morning. Delivery drivers should not have to sit and wait for someone to give them the key. Emergency vehicles also need to have gate access. Automated security gates help solve all of these issues while also allowing for the security protection of manual gates. Automated security gates have become the standard for all commercial properties and parks like the ones found throughout the UK.
Why Automation Matters for Businesses
In commercial operations, every moment is money. Automated gates open within seconds with the push of a button. No one is getting out of their vehicles, especially in the rain, to deal with difficult padlocks or wait for someone to remove the gate from its place. That efficiency adds up over the day and instructs the value of being automated.
Automated gates also improve security. Manual gates can be left open or unlocked and someone could forget to close them. Automated gates close behind the vehicle and will not remain open for a vehicle in case someone was in a hurry to pass through. This automated gate system for your commercial property will definitely increase your security and automation.
The ability to integrate access control systems revolutionizes systems management and empowers security. With card readers, keypads, and remote controls, you can instantly grant and revoke access to building. Access control systems help you delete access codes to systems on the fly when an employee leaves. When supervisors need to grant temporary access to contractors for building? System admins can create, manage and delete time-based access control codes that allow entry to the building for contractors, then expire their access when the contractors job is complete.
Sliding Vs Swing Gates
Sliding gates are installed on tracks that run parallel to your boarder. They require space to one side but no clearance in the front. This is an advantage for properties with less forecourt space or if the gates open on to busy street because a swinging gate would block traffic.
Sliding gates are powered by an electric motor that moves the gate along the track. Wide sliding gates are ideal for properties that have heavy good vehicle traffic. sliding gates are good for regular heavy use and most weather.
Unlike sliding gate, spacious front courtyards are required for swing gates to operate. This is ideal when boarders do not allow for sliding gates or when they would like swing gates for their traditional or more prestigious look. When larger gates are needed, they can be designed as double swing gates to split the gate width, decreasing the amount of weight on each motor.
Ground conditions affect swing gate choice. Gates in swing design may have height differential issues as the opening gate may create height problems depending on the terrain. Sliding gates may also work better on uneven terrain as their gate systems run on a flat track.
Hydraulic Systems and Controls
Heavy and operationally frequent gates are best suited to hydraulic systems. They are the best in terms of efficiency and reliability, and able to withstand severe weather. They are often the only choice in the industrial and high-security sectors as they are really the only systems able to withstand frequent use and accommodate large gates.
Light gates and moderate activity can use Electromechanical systems. They are quieter, cheaper, and are more suited to office car park usage and light commercial which also makes them a more valuable choice.
Aesthetic underground systems conceal everything, including the moving machinery and are preferred by some commercial customers for appearance. However, underground motors require a proper engineering and aesthetic drainage system as more complex installation of their ground boxes and encasements is required.
Above ground systems are typically easier to install and maintain. Fault finding is more accurate as you can see the system in use but they can have a large visual impact which commercial customers may not mind.
Safety Features Are Not Optional
Safety photocells are an important safety feature of automated gates. Every automated safety gate is required to have photocells, per UK law. If something or someone blocks the gate’s path, the cell will detect the obstruction, causing the gate to reverse, ensuring safety and preventing damage to the gate or vehicles.
With pressure sensors, movement is detected. If the gate is being closed and something is in the way, the gate will detect the obstruction, reverse, and then open again. This is helpful because photocells can sometimes miss objects.
Moving gates need to have flashing lights to warn pedestrians and vehicles in their path. This feature of the gate is important to prevent an accident from occuring.
In the case of an emergency, gates need to have emergency release devices, allowing gate control manually. This is important for safety in case of fire or emergencies. They open and close the gates at will without an electric supply.
Access Control Integration
Keypads provide an easy and inexpensive inout option for gate access. The problem with this option is that outreaching access to others is cumbersome and time consuming.
Proximity cards and fobs are used with readers. Each user is assigned a specific card which simplifies personal access control. If someone loses their card, it can be deactivated without inconvenience to other users. The system also tracks who accessed the system and when, which is useful in case of audits.
Remote controls are useful in cases were the same people access the system repeatedly. Drivers carry remotes in their cars, which facilitates fast ingress and egress of the system. The operative range of remote control systems can vary, however, a good remote control system is able to open the control access point from a distance of 50 to 100 meters.
Mobile access apps enable users to turn their smartphones into access control tokens. The users authenticate via the app and the gate opens. While it is modern and provides a high level of convenience, it also requires good mobile reception and the relevant software to be in place.
Intercom systems allow patrons to request access. From there, reception or security can verify the identity of the individual to provide access. The combination of human and automated gate control is a good fit for sites that have higher visitor access.
Battery Backup Systems
Battery backup systems allow the gates to remain operational during power outages. In the event of a power outage, batteries will switch over providing reliable operational power for hours. This is particularly important for businesses that cannot afford to be locked in configuration or locked out during a power failure.
Solar panels that are coupled with battery storage provide power when it’s dark or cloudy. Battery storage is useful for off-grid locations without power. It’s useful for reducing operational costs.
Maintenance Requirements
To ensure reliable functioning, automated gates need servicing on a regular basis. Servicing includes checking the control systems, motors, and safety sensors. If a commercial gate system is used on a daily basis, it should be serviced more than twice a year.
It’s important to regularly maintain the tracks and hinges. Keeping the tracks and hinges clean and lubricated can prevent gates from closing properly. Most mechanical issues can be avoided when there is regular cleaning.
Safety testing is also a legal requirement. It is also mandatory to check that the photocells, pressure sensors, and emergency stop buttons are functioning properly. It may also be important to keep a record of these tests in case an injury is sustained by the gate.
Automated gates are a worthwhile investment. With the right specifications, an automated gate can provide the needed services to a business, increasing security, efficiency, and access management.