Perimeter security is essential for businesses in all industries. No matter your line of work, if you have a business premises, keeping staff and goods safe is vital — as well as keeping intruders out. To ensure your space truly is secure, it’s important to recognise that security infrastructure is always evolving.
Unfortunately, the technology behind security breaches is also always adapting. General wear and tear can also compromise your gate and fence security. As such, a security gate fitted over 20 years ago may not stand up against today’s potential intruders.
Staying on top of your perimeter security is the number one way to protect your business premises from unauthorised access. If you recognise any of the following signs, it might be a wise idea to consider upgrading your security gate and other measures.
Sign #1: Your gate has frequent breakdowns
Do you find yourself seeking gate repair services more frequently? All security gates can experience issues, whether it’s a mechanical failure or a problem with the lock. We recommend scheduling regular security gate maintenance to keep these issues at bay.
However, if constant repairs are leading to operational downtime, compromised security, and rising repair costs, it might be worth investing in an upgrade.
Sign #2: Security incidents are increasing
The main function of a security gate is to grant you greater control over who enters and exits the premises. If you find that unauthorised persons are trespassing, be it through tailgating or finding other ways to gain access, stricter security measures could be in order.
This is also the case if vandalism is a common occurrence.
Often, security breaches can arise when perimeter security focuses solely on barriers. While a tall fence or a robust gate can provide some level of trespass prevention, integrating CCTV and access control measures can greatly improve security levels.
From keypad entry and card access to vehicle safety induction loops, access control systems can be an excellent addition to both pedestrian and vehicle security gates.
Sign #3: The gate is too slow or inefficient
Over time, your security gate may slow down. When gates don’t open fluidly — whether manually controlled or automatic — it can lead to a range of issues. You may find traffic builds up in car parks, staff and visitors become frustrated, and safety hazards occur.
Upgrading your bifold, swing, or sliding security gate can ensure an efficient traffic flow that enhances safety and well-being.
Sign #4: Compliance or safety standards have changed
Security gates are heavy and often feature mechanical operations that can be dangerous if not installed or cared for properly. As such, they must adhere to certain health and safety standards. Certain industries are also subject to additional specific guidelines.
At times, safety standards may change — for example, following the UK’s exit from the European Union, the CE mark that previously showed a security gate met safety standards changed to the UKCA mark.
Likewise, in 2017, the standard covering Safety for Automatic Gates (BS EN 12453:2017) was updated to be far stricter than previous iterations.
Any updates to regulations should be reflected in your security gates so your business remains compliant with relevant standards for your industry.
Sign #5: Your business has grown or changed in use
If your business has grown in size, you might find you need additional car parks, stricter access control, or extra pedestrian gates. Perhaps the premises has changed in layout, and you need to move a gate — this could be the perfect opportunity to upgrade and ensure it provides the most effective security for your team.
Modern security gate solutions to consider
While security gates are built to withstand a lot, outdated technology can put your business at risk of unauthorised access and vandalism. The good news is that modern gate solutions are increasingly robust and effective.
To get the best level of protection, look for gates and fencing made from durable steel — this offers a visual deterrent, is difficult to tamper with, and can stand strong for decades. It’s also worth investing in additional security features, such as:
- Automation: Are your current gates manually operated? Automated gate systems use sensors to trigger operation remotely. They can be applied to a broad range of bi-fold, sliding, and swing gates to improve traffic flow, provide remote control over who accesses the space, and reduce the need for a staff member to manually open and close the gates — reducing overall costs.
- Access control: We’ve already touched on upgrading your gates to include access control systems, but how can these benefit your business? Firstly, they let you have greater oversight of who enters and exits, reducing the chance of tailgating and unauthorised access. Knowing exactly who is on-site and when can also improve staff and visitor safety in an emergency situation.
- Anti-climb measures: For businesses at risk of attempted pedestrian access, you can add anti-climb measures to your security gates. From anti-climb paint to spiked fence collars, these make it extremely difficult for unauthorised visitors to scale your gates.
Upgrade your gates with Security Solutions
Regardless of your industry, perimeter security should be a key part of your business’s risk assessments. Investing in high-quality security gates helps protect your building, staff, and visitors for a safer working environment. The initial cost of an upgraded gate is soon offset by the peace of mind provided — plus, it can even lower your insurance premiums.
At Security Solutions, we install a variety of robust security gates, tailored to your space and requirements. Our gates can be customised with access control systems, lighting, and other security measures. We can also upgrade your existing gates to enhance your company’s security.
With over 10 years of experience installing innovative perimeter security solutions, we have the training and practical skills to give your premises the highest level of protection.
We also recognise that regular maintenance is key to ensuring your security gates remain in great condition. That’s why we provide a comprehensive maintenance service, with engineers available 24/7 to carry out repairs, check your gates, and address any concerns.
To learn more about our gate installation or ongoing support and arrange a no-obligation survey, please feel free to get in touch.