As we have established in previous blog entries, access is one of the most important things to consider when establishing a perimeter fence around your site or premises. Even the most secure perimeters require entry and exit points for authorised personnel. However, different sites have radically different access requirements. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of different access gates available.
Choosing the right security gates for your site is essential. Luckily, though, this doesn’t have to be a stressful or complicated process. You need to make just three major decisions to figure out which access gates are right for you. We’ll run through them in today’s blog entry.
1. Manual versus electronic
Manual, lock-and-key access gates and electronically-controlled gates serve slightly different functions. Manual gates provide easy access for any employees and personnel with the correct keys. Because they provide access in such a straightforward manner, they are useful on sites where speed and ease of access are crucial. In contrast, electronic gates often utilise codes, ID cards or other verification methods. This means they are usually more secure than manual gates, but they don’t provide access as quickly. As a result, they are useful on sites where a high level of security is essential.
2. Pedestrian versus vehicle access
Pedestrian access gates tend to be narrower and easier to secure than vehicle gates. Therefore, it’s often advisable to opt for these when security is a priority. However, vehicular gates are necessary on some sites. For example, if heavy goods are regularly transported to or from your site or premises, you will need to access the vehicles that carry them.
3. Manned versus unmanned
Some access solutions include booths so that they can be manned and controlled by security personnel. Operated gates are ideal for high-security sites. However, they are not always practical. If your employees need to access your site at times when your security personnel aren’t available, you’ll need to provide unmanned gates that can be accessed by individual employees.
Here at Zaun, we design, manufacture and install a wide variety of access gates alongside our perimeter fencing solutions and other security measures. Once you have decided what type of gates you need, check out our range to find the best match.
