Newsletter Stories High security sliding gates - how to specify
High security sliding gates - how to specify
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High security sliding gates provid superior security |
Perimeter security is the first line of defence for premises, whatever the threat, so a combination of fencing, gates and additional security features will provide both physical protection and a visual deterrent.
Perimeter security is only as good as the 'weakest link' and care must be taken to ensure that access points are no less secure than the fencing. As a general rule, the number of access points should be kept to a minimum, though for reasons of health and safety it is good practice to have separate access points for vehicles and pedestrians.
Pedestrian gates will normally be swing gates, unless turnstiles are deemed to be more appropriate as part of an access control system. For vehicular access, however, there is a choice between swing gates and sliding gates. Both types offer similar protection from cutting and climbing, but sliding gates offer significantly better resistance to forcing. The main reason for this is that part of the gate leaf is retained within a rigid structure. When closed, single-leaf gates are retained at both ends, and double-leaf gates are retained at one end - which is still an inherently stronger arrangement than swing gates mounted on hinges. Because of the way the gate leaves are retained, they are much more difficult to force open, either by tampering with the fixings and locking mechanisms or by ramming. In addition, the more vulnerable points of a sliding gate are less accessible than those of swing gates.
Another feature of sliding gates is that they are highly suitable for mechanisation using robust, long-lasting operating mechanisms that are protected from the elements and from attack. Furthermore, a multitude of different access control systems can be employed, ranging from keypads and intercoms (wireless, if necessary), to in-vehicle radio control, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) and induction loops. The choice of access control will depend on factors such as the number of vehicles requiring access, the level of security required, and whether there is an existing site-wide security system within which the gate controls must be integrated.
Procter Sliding Gates manufactures the Pro-Glide comprehensive range of competitively-priced powered sliding gates - which includes gates for premises requiring high security. To complement the gates, the company can also supply and install access controls, and a sister division of the same company, Procter Fencing Systems, supplies and installs high-security perimeter fencing and associated security measures. The Series 10, Series 20 and Series 30 Pro-Glide cantilevered and tracked sliding gates give specifiers an exceptionally broad choice of options to suit an almost unlimited variety of commercial, industrial and public sector applications. Moreover, complete customisation is available within the same timescale and cost structure.
Pro-Glide gates can be seen on the Procter Fencing Systems stand, number 121, at the Counter Terror Expo 2011 that takes place at Olympia, London, on 19-20 April 2011. Visitors can request a CD containing two White Papers on specifying sliding gates and the safety of sliding gates, and there is also a Guide to High-Security Perimeter Protection and a Fencing Selector on the CD. Experts will be available on the stand to discuss any requirements for high-security fencing and gates. Alternatively, telephone 02920 855756, email CTX@sliding-gate.co.uk or visit the website at www.sliding-gate.co.uk
