Should my business install Pedestrian gates?

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: https://gatewayautomation.co.uk/.