Security gates are a wise investment for any industrial premises. However, a fit-and-forget approach could leave your business vulnerable to security breaches. Any issues with your gate mechanics or structure can make it possible for unauthorised people to gain access, resulting in potential theft, vandalism, or other damage.
What’s more, unresolved problems with your security gates could pose health and safety hazards, putting your staff and any visitors at risk.
So, how can you mitigate these risks and ensure your bi-fold, sliding, or swing security gates are in top working condition? That’s where regular maintenance and servicing come in. Let’s take a look at what security gate servicing involves and how often you should book an expert to take a look at your perimeter security.
Why is it essential to maintain your security gates?
When security gates are working as they should, they provide a safe way for authorised personnel to access a space. They can help improve traffic flow, allow site managers to keep track of who’s on the premises, and reduce the risk of theft or vandalism.
To get the most out of your security gates — and make sure they are compliant with health and safety standards — it’s important to keep them in good working condition. As with any infrastructure, even the most robust security gates can suffer wear and tear as well as accidental damage.
Any issues can, however, pose health and safety risks. If a gate doesn’t open or close properly, it could lead to pedestrians and vehicles getting trapped or crushed. Any sharp edges could lead to cuts and abrasions. Plus, faulty automation could even result in vehicle collisions, particularly in warehouse loading docks and construction sites where HGVs and large machinery are present.
Aside from health and safety hazards, gate issues can also lead to operational downtime. Stuck gates, for instance, may result in delayed deliveries. On the other hand, a gate that won’t lock could leave your premises open to theft and vandalism.
By keeping up with proper gate maintenance, you can minimise these risks and reduce the need for costly repairs or replacements.
How often should you get your security gates serviced?
One of the best ways to make sure your security gates are well-maintained is to schedule regular servicing. This can catch any potential issues early, before they cause any serious problems.
As for how frequently you should arrange a security gate service, this depends on several factors, including:
- The type of gates you have
- How much use do they get — is it a high-traffic site?
- Environmental factors, such as climate and weather conditions
Even if the gates are rarely used, they should be serviced annually — ideally once every six months. For most security gates on industrial sites, however, we recommend quarterly services. Gates in these environments tend to experience heavy daily use as vehicles enter and exit. Inspecting your gates at least three times a year will ensure they operate safely and efficiently.
What does a security gate service involve?
While we suggest carrying out your own general checks to keep an eye out for any noticeable defects or issues, an official security gate service will look at their condition in depth. A service will include:
- A visual inspection to identify any damage or wear and tear.
- Checking hinges, rollers, and moving parts — lubricating these to make sure they move easily.
- Testing any automation components, including sensors, motors, and control panels, to ensure they work effectively and safely.
- Checking the manual release system to make sure it works properly if needed in a power outage.
- Ensuring your gates comply with the latest UK regulations.
Security gate service packages from Security Solutions
Our engineers at Security Solutions know that every business will have different requirements when it comes to gate servicing. To make it easier to get the level of support and maintenance you need, we offer a range of servicing packages. Each one is designed to keep your gates running smoothly, no matter the level of traffic and use they see.
- White: This package is perfect for sites with a lower level of traffic. It includes two full services a year, along with emergency callout support (within 24 hours).
- Blue: For sites with a steady to high flow of traffic, we can offer two full services per year and priority emergency callouts. We’ll aim to be with you within 8 hours.
- Magenta: Our tailor-made package is for priority sites with demanding reliability needs. These tend to be high-traffic sites, and we can customise our servicing schedule to your requirements. We’re also available for 24/7 emergency repairs, aiming to be with you within 4 hours.
Warning signs that your gates are due for a service
Scheduling your annual, biannual, or quarterly gate service is a wise step. However, if you spot any of the following signs, your gates may benefit from an additional check.
- Slow or sluggish movements when opening or closing
- Strange noises, such as creaking or groaning
- Misalignment — this can be an issue with sliding gates in particular
- Control or sensor failures, meaning the gates don’t open or close properly
Why use a professional gate servicing company like Security Solutions?
When arranging your security gate maintenance and servicing, it’s important to hire a professional. These gates can be heavy, with dangerous mechanisms, so any work needs to be carried out by certified engineers.
The team at Security Solutions has been installing and maintaining high-quality gates, fences, and barriers for over 10 years. Throughout this time, we’ve gained a strong understanding of what our clients require, and this has guided us in creating our White, Blue, and Magenta servicing packages.
Our flexible plans all entail a fast, reliable, and professional service from CHAS-accredited industry experts. We’ll be your single point of contact for installation, upgrades, scheduled services, and emergency maintenance.
To learn more about our security gate servicing and to arrange a free, no-obligation quote, please feel free to get in touch and speak with one of our helpful team members.