6 Reasons your business needs gates and barriers

6 Reasons your Business Needs Gates & Barriers 

Although the onset of the coronavirus saw a significant decrease in crime rates across the India due to enforced lockdown, there are very few reasons for businesses to take this as a sign of things to come. Indeed businesses should take this time to consider their security protocols and begin to address any shortcomings in good time as restrictions lift. Here we will look at some of the benefits of two of our most popular forms of perimeter security: gates and barriers.

1 – Barriers and gates are strong deterrents against crime

Time and time again we hear stories of criminals that have acted on opportunity when committing a crime. A broken fence, unlocked door, insufficient lighting, the list goes on. Having outdated, broken or a complete lack of perimeter security almost guarantees you to be viewed as an easy target by criminal gangs. Barriers and gates are the first port of call for many perimeter security overhauls because they actively send out a message that your business is not going to be easy pickings.

 

2 – Barriers and gates allow you to control movement

While tools like CCTV are a great way to monitor the flow of traffic and pedestrians throughout your site, they do nothing to act on it. One of the main shortfalls of CCTV is that it simply takes a record of actions. The job of dealing with any issues is left to others. With barriers and gates, you can proactively limit entry to your site. With the use of pin pads, tokens, and fingerprint recognition you can reduce the need for manpower to administer front-of-house duties.

 

3 – Real-time savings

This brings us to our next reason to invest in gates and barriers. Perimeter security is essentially an investment in your future. These enhancements protect you from the disasters that follow on from a serious crime. Businesses that are victims of serious crimes like theft, burglary, vandalism, and arson can face significant losses in several different ways. The initial impact of stock loss or damage, losses from downtime for your business, and an impact on your customer relationships or reputation are all very real consequences. They can be successfully averted by investing in your security needs before the worst happens.

 

4 – Curb appeal

Gates and barriers are often the first thing that visitors to your site or passers-by will see. A high-quality installation will provide a level of professionalism to your company brand and reputation and show that you care about the safety of your employees, assets, and visitors.

 

5 – Privacy

For businesses that operate in sensitive areas or highly competitive fields, privacy is often high on their agendas. Gates and barriers extend your footprint to the far exterior of your property and mean that the only people who can approach your site are those who you have given explicit authorisation to do so.

6 – Restrict vehicular access

Smash and grab type crimes are on the rise. This is when a perpetrator uses a vehicle to approach their target quickly, commits their crime, and then escapes again before the police arrive. By utilising gates and barriers you can effectively shut down the chances of a speedy approach or escape and thwart their plans.

 

No matter the size or nature of your businesses, we can provide you with a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess the security requirements of your organization. For more information on any of the security options above, or for further advice on how to protect your business premises from criminals, please contact us on ssaintegrate@gmail.com

Sliding Gates vs Swinging Gates

Sliding Gates vs Swinging Gates 

Gates add value and security to your property. They’re also your main control for access to who goes in and out and serve as a point of entry to your home, business, and land.

The first electric gates were invented in 1881, and the benefits of the automated gates have also evolved, catering the needs of each generation of homeowners and business owners to increase the security and the convenience of opening and closing an entry point structure. Automatic gate systems use electric motors to open and close gates through the use of a transmitter.

When it comes to perimeter defences, the first thing that will likely jump to mind is the image of a security gate, and rightly so. Security gates are often the first line of defence for many businesses when it comes to keeping intruders away, establishing a strong perimeter, and sending out a message to criminals.

However, when planning defences for a site, or considering upgrading your existing measures, it’s important to think carefully about your needs and your site capabilities. Let’s take a look at two of the most popular options of gates and how they compare.

Swinging Gates

Swinging Gates are an excellent option for many businesses. As the name suggests they swing open and shut in a wide arc. Often priced cheaper than sliding gates, they typically don’t include motors or electronics. Swinging gates don’t require concrete work or steel beams, they are low maintenance and make little noise during operation. This means that they are well-suited to isolated or rural sites, or large expansive sites where access to the grid is more limited.

If considering swinging gates as a solution for your site, you should think carefully about the available space on your premises. Swinging gates need enough space to open internally and externally in a wide arc and so might not be suitable for some sites where space is at a premium. They might also be less suited if you have particular needs for high-tech upgrades such as access control equipment or other electronic support.

Sliding Gates

If you are looking for gates at a site where space is less readily available then sliding gates may be a more sensible solution. Rather than opening and closing in an arc, sliding gates slide in and out along a track or trackless cantilever system, which both employ less of a footprint.

Sliding gates are often seen in more commercially-led settings, entrances, and residential driveways. They can be employed on rough ground and even on sloping ground if required. They are a good choice if you operate in a setting that has high-wind speeds and other unpredictable weather factors.

Unlike swing gates, sliding gates can be upgraded with access control equipment such as electronic keys, cards, fingerprint biometric readers and intercoms. These additions will always make a site more secure, however, they do come with added costs.

Confuse as to what type of gate to choose? You might wanna consider these insights.

The main advantages of sliding gates are:
• They aren’t affected by wind
• They don’t take up space on your driveway when opening and closing
• The gate can slide from the left or the right, depending on where you have space
• If you don’t have the space required, there are other types of sliding gates, such as telescopic sliding gates or bi-parting sliding gates, that take up less space.

The advantages of double swing gates:
• A double swing gate takes up less area when in operation
• They are less affected by wind
• As the weight is distributed between two gates, there is less stress on the swing gate motor, posts, and hinges.

The advantages of single swing gates:
• There are only one gate and one set of hardware to automate it, so you’re up for less installation and maintenance (assuming you purchase quality parts, as the load on all parts will be greater).

General swing gate fitting information:

• With swing gates, there are two options as to where to install the hinge. You can install the swing gate opener on the sides of your posts parallel to each other facing inwards, or on the side that faces into your property. If you do the latter, the fixings are hidden by the posts and the swing gates take up less space. 
• If your driveway slopes up from the road and there’s no room for a sliding gate, you can install a swing gate that opens outward. Just make sure it doesn’t interfere with public spaces.

Get in touch

Arranging effective perimeter security is not something that you should go at alone. No matter the size or nature of your business, we can provide you with a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess the security requirements of your organisation. For more information on any of the security options above, or for further advice on how to protect your business premises from criminals, please contact us here or Email us on ssaintegrate@gmail.com

Entrance Gate safety

Entrance Gate safety 

One of the best-known brands in the realm of electrical and electronic equipment isn’t a manufacturer, a distributor or a dealer. It’s UL – formerly known as Underwriters Laboratories, recognized by users across the globe by the small symbol which appears on many of the devices you own today, such as toasters and children’s toys. UL is a certification organization that verifies the safety of the products it tests.

For users, the UL symbol communicates trust. When a product has been UL-certified and listed as such, it means that it has been thoroughly tested by 3^rd-party engineers to verify that it meets relevant standards and has been deemed safe for use in its intended conditions. With this assurance, users have confirmation that the product is safe to use and it will perform properly -- they can trust in its quality.

Why is a Listing Important for Entrance Gate?

There are good reasons to make sure that every electrical or electronic product used within a facility is UL-listed. That said, when you are purchasing a security product, there is a standard of responsibility that is even higher than that for other electronics. There are negative consequences for any non-functioning element in a building; however, a non-functioning security product introduces the potential for a greater level of risk.

Nowhere is this more true than for security doors and turnstiles. Installed at the perimeter of a facility and at any entry points which need to have controlled access, security entrances permit only authorized individuals to enter. With available technology such as anti-piggybacking, anti-tailgating, touchless entry and, facial recognition to verify the identity of the credential-holder, these high-tech doors are a vital piece of an organization’s security planning and risk mitigation strategy.

For anyone directly or indirectly responsible for security within an organization, it is important to ensure that all of your security doors and turnstiles are UL-listed. UL is one of a limited number of nationally-recognized testing laboratories (NRTL), a designation given to those labs allowed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to perform certification of products to ensure they meet general industry, construction, and electrical standards.

What is the UL 325 Standard

The UL 325 standard allows all applicable products to be tested at a nationally recognized testing laboratory. The new standard also:

1.   Contains the basic qualifying factors with which products must comply in order to be documented (listed) and marked (labeled) under the requirements of the UL 325 voluntary listing and labeling program.

2.   Pertains to methods for testing products for safety.

3.   Cover installation of products under the requirements of the National Electrical Code & NBC 2016.

4.   Address fire and electrical safety, as well as safety of the public.

The heart of the UL 325 provisons for gate operators and entrapment protection is section 32 and tables 32.1 and 32.2. These parts of the UL 325 standard outline the options for different means of protecting against entrapment and state the minimum quantities of entrapment protection sensors for each type of gate operator.

Section 32.1.1 states: "A vehicular gate operator or vehicular barrier (arm) operator shall:

a. Have provisions for or be supplied with, a minimum of two independent entrapment protection means as specified in Table 32.1 for each entrapment zone.

b. Operate only after installation and enabling of the minimum number of acceptable entrapment protection means, as specified in Table 32.2…"

Gate Definition and Classifications

UL 325 defines a gate as “a moving barrier such as a swinging, sliding, raising, lowering, rolling, or the like, barrier that is a stand-alone passage barrier or is that portion of a wall or fence system that controls entrance and/or egress by persons or vehicles and completes the perimeter of a defined area.” The main types of gate operators/systems addressed in UL 325 are barrier, vertical pivot gate, horizontal slide gate, swing gate, and vertical lift gate. It is important to note that all gate operators included in UL 325 are defined to be used with vehicular gates and NOT PEDESTRIAN GATES. Property owners must provide a separate entrance for pedestrian access because pedestrian gates provide a safe way for pedestrians to enter or exit a property and help to keep people away from vehicles and automatic vehicular gate systems.

Four distinct types of classifications have been established:

Class I - Residential Vehicular Gate Operator
A vehicular gate operator (or system) intended for use in a home of one to four single family dwellings, or garage or parking area associated therewith.

Class II - Commercial/General Access Vehicular Gate Operator
A vehicular gate operator (or system) intended for use in a commercial location or building such as a multi-family housing unit (five or more single family units, hotel, garages, retail store or other building servicing the general public.

Class III - Industrial /Limited Access Vehicular Gate Operator
A vehicular gate operator (or system) intended for use in an industrial location or building such as a factory or loading dock area or other locations not intended to service the general public.

Class IV - Restricted Access Vehicular Gate Operator
A vehicular gate operator (or system) intended for use in a guarded industrial location or building such as an airport security area or other restricted access location not servicing the general public, in which unauthorized access is prevented via supervisions by security personnel.

Installation Effects

The UL 325 gate operator provisions have an effect on gate and fence dealers:

1. Gate and fence dealers should look for an indication of the class of each operator, which will be specified by the gate operator manufacturer.

2. Fence dealer sales personnel must match the site application with the class of operator. The gate operator manufacturer should be contacted if there is any question about the site application.

3. Ensure that all potential entrapment zones are protected as required in Tables 32.1 and 32.2, which must be described in the instruction manual for the gate operator. For most automatic gates, external entrapment protection sensors will be required. The expertise of dealers is required to apply the provisions of the standard to the wide variety of site specific conditions that are encountered in the field.

4. The gate operator manufacturer will provide extensive guidance and instructions which must be followed at all times. Any questions should be directed to the gate operator manufacturer.

5. A minimum of two (2) warning signs must be displayed in the area of the gate. UL 325 includes specific requirements on the format, content, and placement of these signs. 

Factors Related to Automatic Gate Construction and Installation

• Vehicular gate operators can ONLY be used on vehicular gates and never pedestrian gates.

• A separate pedestrian gate must be provided for all sites where pedestrain access is likely.

• The design and construction of all automatic gates and the adjacent fence must conform to ASTM F2200.

• Adequate clearance should be provided between a swinging gate and adjacent structures to reduce risk of entrapment.

• A sliding gate should work smoothly with easy rolling/movement in both directions prior to the installation of the operator.

• All gate activation controls should be as far away from the gate as possible and must be at least 6 feet from the gate to reduce the opportunity for “reach-through” injury.

• Warning signs and placards must be installed and be must visible in the area of the gate opening from both sides of the gate.

• See ASTM F2200, Standard Specification for Automated Vehicular Gate Construction for information about gate construction.

Device-Specific Installation Instructions There are also specific installation requirements for each type of external entrapment protection sensor. These specific requirements emphasize the care and attention that each device must be given prior to and during installation.

All external entrapment protection sensors must be monitored, and the operator must verify the presence of every device at least once during each open and close cycle. According to the standard, "Upon monitoring, should any device not be present, or a fault condition occur that precludes the sensing of an obstruction, including an interruption of the wireless signal to the wireless device or an open or short circuit in the wiring that connects the external entrapment device to the operator and the device’s supply source, the operator shall function with constant pressure…for the direction of travel being protected, or shall only be able to be moved manually…."

There shall be no modification made in the field to bypass, interfere with, or otherwise defeat the monitoring function by adding, suppressing, or changing, either on the operator or on external entrapment protection device(s) by the connection of wires; terminals; switches; jumpers; or components supplied with the operator or with the external entrapment protection device.

For gate operators utilizing non-contact sensor devices (Type B1), instructions should be consulted for placement for each application and care should be exercised to reduce the risk of nuisance tripping. One or more of these devices must be installed in all potential entrapment zones.

For gate operators utilizing contact sensor devices (Type B2), several requirements are spelled out in UL 325. One or more contact sensors shall be located in all potential entrapment zones.

A wired contact sensor shall be located, and its wiring arranged, so that communication between the sensor and the gate operator is not subjected to mechanical damage. A wireless contact sensor shall be located where the transmission of the signals is not obstructed or impeded by building structures, natural landscaping, or similar obstructions, and shall function under the intended end use conditions.

For gate operators utilizing a continuous pressure activating device (Type D), controls must be placed so that a user has full view of the gate area when the gate is moving. A placard must be placed adjacent to the controls, and no other activation device shall be connected. If you’re not sure, which is perfect for you, SSA Integrate can help. We have Certified Access Control & Entrance Control experts that can help you determine the best solution to meet your security needs while keeping you compliant with all the relevant codes. Contact SSA Integrate today to learn more with free Consultancy.

REF:
https://www.ul.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/UL_Gate-Operator-11.pdf

https://usautomaticgateopeners.com/store/information/ul325.html

https://www.gatedepot.com/amfilerating/file/download/file_id/49072/

30A1.2  

A gate operator installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions utilizing entrapment protection designated Type A in Table 30A.1 to comply with 30A.1.1 shall upon sensing an obstruction in any direction:

a)      Stop and initiate the reversal of the gate within a maximum of 2 seconds. The gate operator shall reverse the gate a minimum of 2 inches (50.8 mm). The gate operator shall require a renewed, intended input (via wired or wireless control or integral control, a loop sensor, a card reader, or similar device) prior to enabling any automatic actuation devices such as a timer or any other maintained input that was present when the reversing function occurred.

 

b)    Stop the gate upon sensing a second sequential obstruction. The gate operator shall require a renewed, intended input (via an integral control or a wired remote intended to be in the line of sight of the gate) prior to enabling any automatic actuation devices such as a timer or any other maintained input that was present when the reversing function occurred. An alarm shall comply with paragraph 30A.1.1A.

30A.1.4 

A gate operator utilizing entrapment protection designated Type B1 in Table 30A.1 by having provision for connection of, or providing with the operator, a non-contact sensor (photoelectric sensor or equivalent) to comply with 30A.1.1 shall, when the sensor is actuated:

a)      Stop or reverse the gate within a maximum of 2 seconds of sensing an obstruction in both the opening and closing directions.

b)      Stop the gate upon sensing a second sequential obstruction in the opposite direction while in the process of reversal as described in (a).

c)      Result in a gate at rest remaining at rest unless a Type D device is actuated, and

 

d)      Return to normal operation when the sensor is no longer actuated.

30A.1.5 

With reference to 30A.1.4, a non-contact sensor is required to function only to protect obstructions in the gate’s direction of travel.

30A.1.6 

A gate operator installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions utilizing entrapment protection designated Types B1 and B2 in Table 30A.1 as the primary device to comply with 30A.1.1 by having provision for connection of such device, or providing such device with the operator, shall monitor for the presence and correct operation of the device, including the wiring to it, at least once during each open and close cycle. The operator shall function as required by 30A.1.15 in the event the device is not present or a fault condition occurs which precludes the sensing of an obstruction. A fault condition includes an open or short circuit in the wiring that connects the external entrapment protection device to the operator and the device’s supply source.

30A.1.7 

A gate operator utilizing a non-contact sensor for entrapment protection in accordance with 30A.1.1 shall be supplied with instructions in compliance with 51.8.4.

30A.1.8 

A non-contact sensor (photoelectric sensor or equivalent) supplied with, or separately supplied for, a gate operator that is intended to reduce the risk of entrapment or obstruction shall comply with the applicable requirements in All Devices, Section 32, and Photoelectric Sensors, Section 33. A separately supplied sensor shall comply with 53.3.3, 53.3.4 and 53.3.5.

a)      Stop and initiate the reversal of the gate within a maximum of 2 seconds of sensing an obstruction in any direction. The gate operator shall reverse the gate a minimum of 2 inches (50.8 mm).

b)      Stop the gate upon sensing a second sequential obstruction in the opposite direction, while in the process of reversal as described in (a).

c)      Result in a gate at rest, unless a Type D device is actuated, and

d)      After the sensor is actuated no more than 2 times during a single closing cycle, or once in a single opening cycle, require a renewed intended input (via wired or wireless control or integral control, a loop sensor, a card reader, or a similar device) prior to enabling any automatic activation devices such as a timer or any other maintained input that was present when the reversing function occurred.

30A.1.9A 

With reference to 30A.1.9, a contact sensor is only required to sense obstructions in the gate’s direction of travel.

30A.1.10 

A gate operator utilizing a contact sensor for entrapment protection to comply with 30A.1.1 shall be supplied with instructions on the placement of the sensors for each Type of application in compliance with 51.8.4.

30A.1.11 

A contact sensor (edge sensor or equivalent) supplied with, or separately supplied for, a gate operator that is intended to reduce the risk of entrapment or obstruction shall comply with the applicable requirements in All Devices, Section 32, and Edge Sensors, Section 34. A separately supplied sensor shall comply with 53.3.3, 53.3.4, and 53.3.5.

30A.1.12 

A swing-gate operator utilizing entrapment protection designated Type C in Table 30A.1 to comply with 30A.1.1 shall, upon sensing an obstruction in any direction, stop the gate and:

a)      Not result in a force after 100,000 cycles of operation under rated load of more than 10 percent higher than the initial setting to stop the gate. When adjustable, the initial setting is to be at the setting for maximum force, and

b)      Be readily accessible for inspection and repair and not readily rendered inoperative.

30A.1.14 

A gate operator utilizing entrapment protection designated Type D in Table 30A.1 by having a provision for connection of, or providing with the operator, a continuous pressure actuation device to comply with 30A.1.1 shall be constructed so that a wireless control shall not operate the gate. Also see paragraph 51.8.4 (e), 52A.1.5, and 52A.1.6.

 30A.1.15 

A gate operator installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions utilizing entrapment protection designated Type D in Table 30A.1 to comply with 30A.1.1 shall require constant pressure or actuation to initiate and continue movement of the gate in either the opening or closing direction. Upon removal of pressure, movement of the gate shall cease. Unless supplied with separate Open and Close buttons, each subsequent pressing of the control button shall reverse direction of the gate.

30A.1.16 

A gate operator utilizing entrapment protection designated Type E in Table 30A.1 by having a provision for, or providing with the operator, audio alarms to comply with 30A.1.1 shall:

a)      Initiate actuation of the alarm(s) a minimum of two seconds prior to movement of the gate, and 

 

b)      Continue actuation of the alarm(s) throughout the entire opening and closing cycle of the gate.

30A.1.17 

An audio alarm for a Type E device shall comply with 30A.1.18 and the applicable requirements in All Devices, Section 32, and Audio Alarms, Section 34A.

30A.1.18 

The audio alarm signal for a Type E device shall be generated by devices such as bells, horns, sirens, or buzzers. The signal shall have a frequency range of 700 to 2800 Hz, a cycle of the sound level pulsations of 1 to 2 per second, a sound level at least 100 dB1 foot (305 mm) in front of the device, and not vary more than ±8 dB over the voltage range of operation. When the audio alarm is not supplied with the operator, instructions specifying the signal criteria shall be supplied with the operator.

30A.1.19 

A Class I or Class II horizontal slide-gate or vertical lift-gate operator (or system) shall not result in a gate movement of greater than one foot per second with the operator exerting a pull force of 74 pounds (333.6N) and when connected to a supply circuit of maximum rated voltage and rated frequency. 

30A.1.20 

A vehicular gate operator shall have a means for manual operation so that the gate is capable of being moved independently of the operator. For a Class I, II, or III vehicular gate operator, the means for operation shall be supplied as an integral part of the operator and the operator shall be marked with instructions for manual operation. For a Class IV vehicular gate operator, the use of a nearby keyed release or a remotely located non-keyed release to release the operator from the gate meets the intent of this requirement.

You’re Guide to Buying a Vehicle barriers

You’re Guide to Buying a Vehicle barriers 

Whether you need to enhance security at a building or increase safety at a specific locale or job site, you will need vehicle boom barriers to help you achieve your goal. Access control is the mechanism that is used for controlling, restricting and monitoring the movement of assets, vehicles and people in or out any building. A drop arm Automatic Boom Barrier is commonly used for controlling the unauthorized entries of any personnel while enforcing access control system. It assures that one token one-person policy is followed 24 x 7. The levels of security that a boom barrier offers depends on style and type of products being used. For example, if the Automatic boom barrier is used with a lockable sliding gate, then it is easier to keep a check on each and every person or vehicle entering. You should know that these are not meant to be used as a pedestrian passage, as a boom barrier is a horizontal bar that is positioned on a pivot that moves up and down. This technology can also be integrated with other systems like visitor management, ANPR, CCTV, BMS and more which eventually saves costs and offer better security services.

If you are a system integrator or gate automation installer or even a gate barrier distributor (like SSA Integrate), it is important to know how to select the best gate barrier system on behalf of the customer. Majority of the datasheets and catalogues are not really useful unless you already know what you are getting into.

What Are Vehicle Barriers? 

Vehicle barriers refer to any device that causes cars to slow down, usually purposefully but not necessarily. They are most often used in areas with high pedestrian traffic, especially when children and seniors make up a large portion of that pedestrian traffic, such as schools/ roads zones. However, you can find them in many places, including highway mediums, parking lots, railroad crossings, commercial districts, private communities, and construction sites. 

What Are Boom Barriers?

A boom barrier, also known as a boom gate, is a bar, or pole pivoted to allow the boom to block vehicular or pedestrian access through a controlled point. Typically the tip of a boom gate rises in a vertical arc to a near vertical position. Boom gates are often counterweighted, so the pole is easily tipped.

What are the primary benefits of an Automatic boom barrier?

1. Enhanced Security:

Security is one of the most crucial things nowadays for residential and commercial buildings. When there is boom barrier installed, the gatekeeper can ensure that entry is given to the people based on their credentials. If a particular vehicle is blacklisted from entering the premises, then its entry can be easily blocked.

2. Traffic Flow can be Managed:

For controlling the flow of traffic on and off your property boom gates are the best option. If your space has limited parking, then also boom barrier can be a great help to maintain the number of vehicles. When the parking is full, you can prevent any more vehicles from entering the premises.

3. Efficient Use of Space:

With a boom gate, you can make the efficient use of space because installing sliding gates or swinging gates needs larger area. A boom barrier requires a small amount of vertical space in order to swing upwards. The most important thing is to get the boom barrier installed from a service that does the job once and for all.

What you should consider before buying a vehicle barrier?

At SSA Integrate, we always strive to share our research and learnings with our customers and the gate automation professional community. Here is our attempt to provide you with a checklist that captures the essential questions and the likely answers to look for. This guide must help you avoid the common mistakes and traps that the uninformed fall into.

The questions are presented under

1.   What is your use case?

2.   What are the physical attributes?

3.   How do you want to control access to the facility?

4.   Safety features to consider

5.   Additional features to consider

What is your applications?

Before purchasing a boom gate, one has to decide where it will be installed, and the operating model. There are boom gates that are specifically designed for a simple application like parking areas, traffic control to the large railway and industrial crossings. It is necessary to understand the application, space availability and use frequency.

If you are system integrator ask Your Customer

1.    Is it for commercial or industrial or residential use?

2.    Is it for heavy traffic or low traffic area?

For high-frequency and limited space

Buying a barrier gate for under-ground or multistoried car parking lots presents the challenge of limited space and high-frequency usage. Most of these structures need continuous opening and closing of barrier gates. Some of the must-have requirements for these facilities are – 100% duty cycle, arm articulation and easy access control system integration.

Magnetic Access Pro barrier has 3.5m width boom and improved opening and closing time, that can be adjusted to 1.3, 1.8, or 2.5 seconds independently of one another.

For high frequency wider space

For the installation at traffic junctions and toll gates on highways, there is a requirement for barriers that support the lifting of extended boom lengths. They are required to block access to tunnels and lanes but also to manage traffic junctions with alternating traffic flows. Some of the must-have features you should look for include – 100% duty cycle, Traffic lamp integration, support for extended beam sizes.

Magnetic Traffic H1 Horizontal Barrier has multiple application for high frequency wider space.

Magnetic Access XXL Barrier are excellent for extra-wide or multi-lane entrances and comes with MHTM™ drive capability. With its barrier width of up to 10m and the optional security grating or security grating with climb-over prevention Access XXL offers range of functions.

Magnetic Access XL2 Barrier are ideal for extra-wide or multi-lane entrances and comes with optional security grating or security grating with climb-over prevention. The opening and closing time for Access XL2 can be set at 6, 8, or 10 seconds independent of one another.

For long life and energy efficiency

Commercial use barrier gates are used very frequently and require constant energy supply. Two most important features required by the barriers operating in such operational environments are long operational life and energy efficiency.

What is the duty cycle?

The duty cycle for an automated gate operator is the number of times the gate can open and close without overheating the motor. Duty cycle is normally expressed in percentage. 100% duty cycle is meant for continuous use, eg: high intensive use cases like a shopping mall, toll plaza etc.

There are two most common categorisations: Residential (40-70% duty cycle) and commercial (100% duty cycle). As you can imagine, a gate barrier in a mall will be used much more time than one in an apartment. When calculating the required duty cycle, calculate for the worst-case scenario.

If you are system integrator ask Your Customer

1.    What is the average usage (open/close cycle) per day? (consider worst-case scenario)

What is Barrier Operator?

Barrier operators mostly come housed in the barrier body mounted on the floor or foundation plate. The barrier operator usually comes with a motor that operates on either hydraulic or electromechanical motors. Some latest products like FAAC b680H also have hybrid motor technology with a Hydraulic Brushless motor in one barrier operator. Hydraulic motors are usually more suitable for heavy-duty, high frequency usage.

Hydraulic vs Electromechanical Motor

Hydraulic Motor

·        Hydraulic controllers are very reliable and pose very few maintenance issues if installed properly.

·        They are a very effective deterrent in case a vehicle runs into the barrier or in stopping tailgating vehicle.

·        Cold can be a problem; too cold weather can cause oil thickening in the hydraulic unit. However, this can be solved with a temperature control unit.

Electromechanical Motor

·        The electromechanical unit is much quieter than the hydraulic motor.

·        A bit slower than Hydraulic but they offer more control, one can set variable speed for how quickly the beam rises.

·        Most security professionals find the electro-mechanical unit easier to maintain.

·        The Electro-mechanical units require at least 220v/single-phase power, which is typically 12-15 more amps of power than what the hydraulic motor requires.

What are the physical attributes

Arm length

Boom gates come with different beam lengths and boom barrier shapes to suit the width of the passage you wish to control. Beam length from 2 metres to 12 to 13 metres, which are especially suitable for use when companies have oversized vehicles, such as mine sites and rail crossings. They come in round or rectangular shapes, wherein rectangular is a bit more expensive

If you are Customer ask Your Vendor / System Integrator

1.    What is the drive-way width?

Arm articulation

Arm articulation makes it possible to articulate the rigid beam to a maximum height according to the ceiling. They are used in parking garages or in areas with limited or low overhead clearances.

If you are system integrator ask Your Customer

1.    What is the height of the installation area or overhead clearance available?

How do you want to control

Barrier access control

Another most important requirement you need to decide is how you want to control the boom barrier – with reader, remote controller, or push button. They can be configured with UHF readers and tags, with a control switch for security officers, remote controllers and receivers, or with push buttons or biometrics.

Biometrics readers:

The barriers can be controlled with biometric-readers like fingerprint, face, Iris options.

Swipe Card Readers:

Access control via RFID cards. Type: Magnetic, proximity cards, and proximity cards with a magnetic stripe, key-chain FOB.

Support for GSM module:

This module helps you open the gate barrier remotely by making a call to the SIM inserted in the GSM module.

UHF readers & tags:

This feature allows the barrier to be opened when a vehicle approaches the barrier with authenticated tags.

Remote controller & receiver:

The barrier gates operated using the remote controller and a radio receiver installed in the barrier.

Switch to Exit Button:

For the facility security team to control the to and fro access.

If you are system integrator ask Your Customer

1.    What kind of access control is required to the facility – biometric or remote or ANPR or RFID tag or swipe card based?

2.    Is the entry/exit point manned, does the security team need an exit button for the manual opening?

Safety features to consider

Anti-crushing sensor

Gate boom barriers feature safety components like sensors for automatic detection of approaching vehicles, anti-crushing sensors that reverse the beam on impact if the barrier boom automatically closes on the vehicle. The anti-crushing sensor only stops repeated impact only after hitting the object once. That’s why you need to have an additional detection mechanism in place – Photocells.

Photocells

Photocells (motion sensors) are electronic devices that improve security by automatically detecting vehicles or obstacles to enable automatic rising of booms. This infrared setup will have a transmitter and receiver at each of the ends of the driveway and whenever an obstacle is detected the barrier will prevent the gate from closing and raise the barrier boom.

Micro Drive Break:

The barriers can also be equipped with a flange set (FLVB02) is designed especially for the parking industry. It enables the ejection of the whole barrier boom after it was hit by a vehicle. The beam can be simply reinstalled after the crash.

Loop detector

Barrier gates come with other solutions like vehicle detection loops (inductive loop), which are installed on the barrier that detects vehicles and passing or arriving at a certain point. The loop detectors are connected to create a magnetic field, and the vehicle is recognised when it enters this field.

Barrier Housing

The barrier housing is attached by four foundation anchors via two attachment profiles. The housing of Magentic barrier is painted RAL 2000 and comes with an IP 54 protection rating.

Battery back-up

If you want the barrier to operate even at the time of main power failure. Look for a continuous duty cycle(in hours) supported by the battery backup.

Opening and closing speed

Most conventional barrier gates provide running speed from 1.5 seconds to 6 seconds.

If you are system integrator ask Your Customer

1.    What is the average opening time?

2.    Look for 1.5 seconds+

The shape of the boom/beam

Magnetic offers a variety of boom lengths, numerous extras like illumination elements and expansion sets, allowing the tailored implementation of Magnetic barriers for various uses. The booms come with skirt elements made of plastic and aluminium, over-climb protection and break-away flange. The types of booms offered include Varioboom, Microboom and Articulated booms. Also the round booms and soft booms. SSA Integrate will guide you what actually you need.

Support for modular beam/boom

What if the barrier needs more length than the standard beam length? When there is support for modular beams, the total length can be extended. Look for a boom extension set.

Colour of the gate barrier

Many manufacturers support your preferred colour for the enclosure. Ask for the supported colours.

International standards or regulations

Look for compliance with international standards (European/ISO) when it comes to safety and quality.

Maintenance and operating cost

You can always buy a cheap gate barrier but watch out for maintenance and operating cost. Operational cost is as important as the capital cost not just in terms of money but the availability of spare parts and technicians.

Enclosure rating

Gate barriers are of course installed outside and the motors and the other internal components should be protected from dust, water and other solid objects. Look for the international standard Ingress Protection(IP) ratings like IP 54 or IP 56.

Temperature Range

Again consider the worst-case scenario, watch out for maximum and minimum temperature tested and supported. Look for -20°C ÷ +55°C.

Integrated flashing traffic light and reflector kit

These optional modules help especially at night.

Anti-vandalism valve or Anti-panic unit

Most barriers come with safety features that stop forced opening or closing, and the anti-vandalism valve protects the hydraulic system in case the beam is forced. While an anti-panic unit is used for the manual opening of the barrier arm in the event of a power failure. Since an anti-vandalism valve prevents manual/forced movement of the beam, both anti-vandalism and anti-panic units cannot be installed together in a barrier system.

Pedestals

The pedestal is required when you need support for holding the access control device. For truck entry gates you need a dual height pedestal while a single height pedestal is used for car access. SSA Integrate will give you perfect solution as per your needs.

Buyer’s Checklist

You can find a checklist with the most important questions below:-

Type	Value
Application	Is it for commercial or industrial or residential use?
	Is it for heavy traffic or low traffic area?
Duty Cycle	What is the average usage (open/close cycle) per day?
Arm Length	What is the drive-way width?
Arm Articulation	What is the height of the installation area or overhead clearance available?
Access Control	Is the entry/exit point manned, does the security team need an exit button for the manual opening?
	What kind of access control is required to the facility – biometric or remote or ANPR or RFID tag or swipe card based?
Photocells	Do you need automatic detection of vehicles to avoid collisions?
Loop detector	Do you need to automate vehicle exit?
Shape/Color	Do you need customised barriers?
Integrated flashing light	Is there a need for integrated flashing light?
Reflector kit	Is the reflector kit included in the barrier package?
Anti-vandalism valve	Is there a chance of forced operation?
Anti-panic	Manual opening in case of power supply failures?
Pedestals	What kind of vehicles are managed by the entry/exit point? Trucks or Cars?

Complete table of available accessories:-

Protocol	Access	Access Pro	Access L	Access Pro L	Access Pro H	Access XL2	Access XXL	Parking Pro	Magnetic Toll
Lane width up to 3.5m(toll 3.00m)	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Lane width up to 5.0m	–	–	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	–	–
Lane width up to 6.0m	–	–	–	✔	✔	✔	✔	–	–
Lane width up to 8.5m	–	–	–	–	–	✔	✔	–	–
Lane width up to 10.0m	–	–	–	–	–	–	✔	–	–
Usage with boom skirt	–	–	–	–	✔	✔	✔	–	–
Variable I/O assignment	–	✔	–	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Fast opening speeds (<2.2 sec)	✔	✔	–	–	–	–	✔	✔	✔
Variable opening times	–	✔	–	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Variable closing times	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Network connection*	–	✔	–	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Integration of interfaces in the future	–	✔	–	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔
Low ceiling height (articulated boom)	✔	✔	✔	✔	–	–	–	✔	–
Parallel operation	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	–
Advertising space in barrier boom	–	✔	–	✔	–	–	–	✔	–
Usage with pedestrian traffic	✔	–	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	–	–
One standard colours	✔	–	✔	–	–	✔	✔	–	–
Three standard colours	–	✔	–	✔	✔	–	–	–	–
Special colours optionally available	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔	✔