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Commercial Security Access Gates & Barriers2026-10-21T08:33:28+00:00

Security Access Gates & Barriers

Commercial Security Access Gates & Barriers

There are multiple mechanical Gates and Barriers available which can be designed to manage both pedestrian and vehicle movement safely. These control mechanisms also include high specification, CE approved turnstiles which are ideal for controlling access in environments such as public buildings, factories, reception areas and health clubs. Turnstiles can include either 90 degree or 120-degree rotor assemblies, these can be configured as either single-directional or bi-directional motion if required. 
 
In addition, single and double turnstiles in full height or three-quarter height models are also available. Automated Sliding Gate Systems can be designed to accommodate the exact requirements such as the volume of either vehicle or pedestrian traffic will be using the gate, as well as integrating a number of options to control the system. 
 
The built-in solution automated mechanism, housing the control within the structure can be aesthetic and efficient. The mechanism can be located either above-ground or underground with multiple options depending on various elements such as opening angles and flooding areas. The Automatic Rising Kerbs are available in different widths and heights, ensuring a high level of security right up to crash-tested versions to prevent terrorist attacks. 
 
External gates and barriers can be supported with LED Traffic Lights, Warning Sirens, Battery back-up and Warning Signage all designed to complement the managed control system. All gates and barriers can be controlled by access control include Voice/Video Intercom Access, Keypads, Proximity Cards & Token Acceptors and managed by either security or receptionists. These systems can be to name just a few.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Security Access Gates & Barriers

Commercial security access gates and barriers help businesses control how vehicles and pedestrians enter or leave their premises.

They create controlled entry points, improve site management and support wider security arrangements.

Depending on the location, suitable equipment may include:

  • Automated sliding gates: Control access through vehicle or pedestrian entrances.
  • Swing gates: Provide controlled access where the layout allows sufficient opening space.
  • Vehicle barriers: Manage traffic entering car parks, industrial sites and commercial premises.
  • Turnstiles: Control pedestrian movement through selected entrances.
  • Rising kerbs and bollards: Restrict vehicle access in suitable locations.
  • Access control equipment: Allow authorised users to operate gates and barriers.

For example, a warehouse may use an automated gate and intercom to manage deliveries while restricting unauthorised vehicles.

SS Systems provides commercial security access gates and barriers, including options for integration with access control systems.

SS Systems offers commercial gate and barrier solutions for managing pedestrian and vehicle access.

Options described on our website include:

  • Automated sliding gates: Open sideways to provide controlled entry where the site layout suits this arrangement.
  • Automated gate mechanisms: Offer different installation options depending on the gate design and available space.
  • Vehicle barriers: Help regulate traffic at controlled entrances.
  • Pedestrian turnstiles: Manage entry and exit through suitable access points.
  • Full-height turnstiles: Provide a more restrictive pedestrian entrance where appropriate.
  • Three-quarter-height turnstiles: Offer another option for managed pedestrian access.
  • Automatic rising kerbs: Help restrict vehicle movement through selected entrances.
  • Access control interfaces: Connect suitable gates and barriers to intercoms, keypads or proximity credentials.

The correct choice depends on the site’s layout, traffic levels, security risks and safety requirements.

SS Systems can discuss suitable equipment and operating arrangements for your premises.

Automated gates and vehicle barriers both control access, but they serve different purposes.

Automated gates usually provide a more substantial physical boundary. They may suit industrial yards, warehouses and secure compounds.

Vehicle barriers typically use a moving arm or another suitable mechanism to manage traffic through an entrance. They often suit car parks and regularly used vehicle access points.

Key differences include:

  • Physical security: A suitable gate may provide a stronger boundary than a conventional barrier arm.
  • Traffic flow: Barriers may suit entrances with frequent vehicle movements.
  • Available space: Sliding and swing gates have different installation requirements.
  • Pedestrian access: Some sites need a separate pedestrian route.
  • Safety measures: Each system needs suitable risk assessment and protective devices.
  • Access control: Both can work with compatible intercoms, cards and other entry methods.

For example, a business park may use a vehicle barrier during opening hours and a secure gate for out-of-hours protection.

SS Systems can assess the entrance and discuss an appropriate solution.

Yes. Compatible commercial gates and barriers can integrate with electronic access control systems.

This allows businesses to manage entry permissions without relying solely on manual operation.

Common access methods include:

  • Proximity cards and fobs: Allow authorised users to operate compatible entrances.
  • Keypads: Provide entry using suitable access codes.
  • Audio intercoms: Let visitors speak with an authorised member of staff.
  • Video intercoms: Help staff visually assess visitors before granting access.
  • Reception controls: Allow authorised personnel to operate selected entrances.
  • Vehicle credentials: Support suitable automated entry arrangements where the system allows.

For example, an office car park may allow staff to enter using access cards while visitors request entry through a video intercom.

However, compatibility depends on the equipment, controller and installation design.

SS Systems provides access control services and can discuss suitable integration with commercial gates and barriers.

Automated gates and barriers can provide safe access when competent professionals design, install, assess and maintain them correctly.

However, moving equipment can create crushing, trapping, impact and shearing hazards.

Suitable safety arrangements may include:

  • Risk assessment: Identify hazards at each stage of the equipment’s movement.
  • Safety edges: Detect contact at relevant hazardous points.
  • Presence detection: Help identify people or vehicles within selected danger areas.
  • Protective guarding: Reduce access to suitable hazardous mechanisms.
  • Warning signs: Explain relevant hazards and operating instructions.
  • Emergency controls: Support suitable stopping or release procedures.
  • Commissioning checks: Verify relevant safety functions before normal use.
  • Regular maintenance: Help identify faults, wear and damaged protective devices.

Relevant requirements may include BS EN 12453 and applicable UK product safety legislation.

Importantly, a gate’s CE or UKCA marking alone does not prove that every aspect of the installed system is safe.

SS Systems can discuss appropriate gate and barrier arrangements for your site.

Yes. Commercial access systems can manage pedestrian movement through suitable gates, turnstiles and controlled entrances.

Pedestrian access equipment may include:

  • Full-height turnstiles: Control movement through selected higher-security entrances.
  • Three-quarter-height turnstiles: Provide managed pedestrian access in suitable environments.
  • Single-direction turnstiles: Guide movement in one permitted direction.
  • Bi-directional turnstiles: Support controlled entry and exit where appropriate.
  • Access-controlled pedestrian gates: Allow authorised users through suitable entrances.
  • Intercom systems: Help staff manage visitors and deliveries.

For example, a factory may use turnstiles to manage staff entry while providing a separate accessible entrance for visitors and other users.

However, turnstiles must not obstruct required emergency escape routes.

Also, businesses should provide suitable access arrangements for people who cannot use a conventional turnstile.

SS Systems can discuss pedestrian access control options for your premises.

The response of an automated gate or barrier during a power failure depends on its design, equipment and site requirements.

Some installations may include battery backup or a suitable manual release mechanism.

Possible arrangements include:

  • Battery backup: Supports selected functions for a limited period where the design allows.
  • Manual release: Allows authorised personnel to operate suitable equipment without normal motor power.
  • Emergency opening: Supports an agreed access or escape requirement where appropriate.
  • Controlled shutdown: Places relevant equipment into its intended condition when power fails.
  • Fault indication: Alerts responsible staff to relevant operating problems.

However, not every gate or barrier automatically opens when electricity fails.

The correct response depends on the security risks, emergency access needs and applicable safety requirements.

SS Systems can discuss suitable backup and emergency operating arrangements for your proposed installation.

Yes. Commercial gates and vehicle barriers can help organisations manage traffic through car parks, loading areas and delivery entrances.

A suitable system may improve access management by:

  • Separating authorised vehicles from general traffic
  • Controlling access to staff or visitor parking areas
  • Supporting reception-managed deliveries
  • Reducing unnecessary vehicle movements into restricted areas
  • Allowing selected users to enter with compatible credentials
  • Using suitable traffic lights and warning signs
  • Providing relevant intercom communication at entrances

For example, a distribution centre may use a vehicle barrier and video intercom to manage delivery drivers.

However, busy entrances need careful planning to prevent queues from obstructing public roads or pedestrian routes.

SS Systems can review your traffic arrangements and discuss suitable gate, barrier and access control options.

Commercial security gates and barriers need regular inspection and maintenance to support safe, reliable operation.

The correct maintenance schedule depends on the equipment, manufacturer instructions, usage levels, operating environment and risk assessment.

Maintenance checks may include:

  • Moving components: Inspect hinges, rollers, tracks and other relevant mechanical parts.
  • Safety devices: Test appropriate safety edges, sensors and protective functions.
  • Motors and controls: Check relevant operating equipment.
  • Manual release: Confirm suitable emergency operating procedures.
  • Access control: Test compatible cards, keypads and intercom interfaces.
  • Warning equipment: Check relevant signs, lights and audible warnings.
  • Power supplies: Inspect appropriate electrical and backup arrangements.
  • Structural condition: Look for damage, corrosion or movement affecting the installation.
  • Records: Document defects, repairs and relevant safety checks.

High-use entrances may need more frequent attention than lightly used equipment.

Also, arrange prompt checks after collisions, unusual noises or repeated operating faults.

Ask SS Systems about suitable maintenance support and service arrangements for your installation.

Contact SS Systems to discuss security gates, vehicle barriers, turnstiles or controlled access arrangements for your premises.

Our team can review your entrance requirements, site layout and existing security equipment.

Before contacting us, consider providing:

  • The site address and type of business
  • The number of vehicle and pedestrian entrances
  • Approximate traffic levels during busy periods
  • Existing gates, barriers or turnstiles
  • Available space around each entrance
  • Current access control and intercom equipment
  • Known security or safety concerns
  • Emergency access and evacuation requirements
  • Any planned site alterations
  • Required servicing or upgrade work

SS Systems can then discuss suitable equipment, access control integration and the next steps for your project.

Call 03300 417 170, email sales@sssystems.co.uk or visit our Contact Us page.

Advice When Choosing and Maintaining Commercial Security Access Gates & Barriers

Start with a detailed assessment of your premises before choosing commercial security gates or barriers.

Different sites have different traffic levels, security concerns and space restrictions. Therefore, the correct solution should reflect how people and vehicles use each entrance.

Consider these factors:

  • Security risks: Identify unauthorised access, theft, vandalism and other relevant concerns.
  • Vehicle movements: Review staff, visitors, deliveries and emergency vehicle access.
  • Pedestrian routes: Identify safe routes for employees, contractors and visitors.
  • Traffic levels: Consider busy periods and the frequency of gate or barrier operation.
  • Available space: Check entrance widths, ground conditions and surrounding obstacles.
  • Existing equipment: Review fencing, CCTV, intercoms and access control systems.
  • Emergency arrangements: Confirm how the entrance supports evacuation and emergency services.
  • Future changes: Consider planned extensions or changes to site operations.

For example, a busy logistics depot may need a different entrance design from an office car park with occasional visitors.

SS Systems can discuss your site requirements and suitable access gate and barrier options.

Use the assessment to establish clear priorities before selecting equipment.

Select the type of gate or barrier that best suits your entrance layout, traffic flow and security requirements.

Each option has different space and operating needs.

Common choices include:

  • Sliding gates: Move sideways and may suit entrances where there is enough space along the boundary.
  • Swing gates: Open through an arc and need suitable clearance around the entrance.
  • Vehicle barrier arms: Help manage frequent vehicle movements at car parks and controlled entrances.
  • Rising kerbs: Restrict vehicle access through suitable high-security locations.
  • Turnstiles: Manage pedestrian access at selected entry points.

However, a conventional barrier arm does not provide the same physical protection as a substantial security gate.

Also, a sliding gate may need a longer clear boundary than the entrance width suggests.

Ask SS Systems to review the space available, expected traffic and required security level.

Choose equipment that supports daily operations without creating unnecessary congestion or safety risks.

Make safety a central part of every automated gate and barrier project.

Moving gates can create serious hazards if their design, installation or maintenance does not adequately control the risks.

Before installation, consider:

  • Risk assessment: Identify potential crushing, trapping, impact and shearing points.
  • Protective devices: Select suitable safety edges, presence sensors and other measures.
  • Gate movement: Review the full opening and closing path.
  • Pedestrian separation: Keep people away from vehicle-only entrances where appropriate.
  • Emergency stopping: Establish suitable emergency control arrangements.
  • Manual release: Confirm how authorised staff can operate equipment when necessary.
  • Warning information: Provide appropriate signs and user instructions.
  • Commissioning: Verify relevant safety functions before normal operation.

BS EN 12453 provides relevant safety requirements for power-operated doors and gates.

However, selecting equipment that references a standard does not remove the need for a site-specific risk assessment.

Ask the provider to explain the safety measures and documentation that apply to your installation.

Also, review the risks whenever you change the entrance layout or operating arrangements.

Consider how authorised users will operate your gates and barriers during normal working hours and outside them.

Electronic access control can help businesses manage entry permissions and reduce reliance on manual gate operation.

Suitable options may include:

  • Proximity cards and fobs: Allow authorised staff to use compatible entrances.
  • Keypads: Provide access through managed entry codes.
  • Audio intercoms: Let visitors contact authorised employees.
  • Video intercoms: Help staff assess visitors before opening an entrance.
  • Reception controls: Allow nominated personnel to manage access.
  • Time-based permissions: Restrict suitable credentials to agreed operating periods.
  • Event records: Record relevant access activity where the system supports this function.

For example, a business park may allow staff to use access cards while delivery drivers contact reception through an intercom.

However, access control must not compromise emergency escape or create unsafe gate movements.

SS Systems provides access control services and can discuss integration with suitable gate and barrier equipment.

Review user permissions regularly and remove access when employees or contractors no longer need it.

Design entrances around safe movement rather than focusing only on restricting access.

Busy commercial sites may have delivery vehicles, staff cars, pedestrians and contractors using nearby routes.

To improve entrance management, consider:

  • Traffic direction: Decide whether vehicles need separate entry and exit routes.
  • Queue space: Provide suitable waiting areas away from public roads.
  • Pedestrian routes: Offer safe access without requiring people to walk through vehicle barriers.
  • Delivery vehicles: Account for turning space and vehicle dimensions.
  • Traffic signals: Use suitable lights where they support safe movement.
  • Warning signs: Explain entry procedures and relevant restrictions.
  • Visitor access: Position intercoms where drivers can use them safely.
  • Emergency vehicles: Confirm appropriate access arrangements.

For example, a narrow entrance may create delays if delivery drivers must stop where other vehicles cannot pass.

Also, a barrier designed for cars may not suit frequent heavy goods vehicle movements without additional planning.

SS Systems can discuss suitable entrance controls and access management arrangements.

Review traffic flow during the busiest operating periods, not just when the site is quiet.

Choose pedestrian access equipment that balances security with safe, practical movement.

Turnstiles can help manage authorised entry, but they do not suit every user or every entrance.

Review the following requirements:

  • Turnstile type: Consider full-height or three-quarter-height equipment where appropriate.
  • Entry direction: Decide whether the entrance needs one-way or two-way operation.
  • Access credentials: Choose suitable cards, fobs or other compatible methods.
  • Accessible routes: Provide suitable alternatives for people who cannot use conventional turnstiles.
  • Visitor management: Consider how reception staff will admit visitors and contractors.
  • Emergency escape: Keep required escape routes suitable for the building’s evacuation arrangements.
  • Power failure: Establish how equipment will behave if normal electricity fails.
  • Staff training: Explain how to operate the system and respond to faults.

For example, a factory may use a turnstile for routine staff entry and a separate controlled gate for accessible access.

However, do not assume that a turnstile provides an acceptable emergency exit simply because it has an electronic release function.

Confirm the relevant fire safety and accessibility requirements during the design stage.

SS Systems can discuss suitable pedestrian access arrangements for your premises.

Establish how your gates and barriers should operate when normal conditions change.

Power failures, equipment faults and emergencies can affect both security and access.

Important considerations include:

  • Backup power: Determine whether the entrance needs a suitable battery arrangement.
  • Manual release: Confirm that authorised personnel can use the appropriate procedure.
  • Emergency services: Plan how responders can access the premises when necessary.
  • Escape routes: Ensure gate operation supports the building’s emergency arrangements.
  • Fault notifications: Identify who needs to know when equipment stops working.
  • Temporary security: Plan how to secure the entrance if the system cannot operate normally.
  • Staff instructions: Provide clear procedures for relevant employees.
  • Routine checks: Test appropriate emergency functions according to the maintenance plan.

For example, a business may need a procedure for opening a vehicle gate manually while maintaining appropriate site supervision.

However, automatic opening during a power failure is not the correct solution for every entrance.

SS Systems can discuss suitable operating arrangements based on your security risks and emergency access requirements.

Keep emergency instructions accessible to authorised staff and review them after system changes.

Maintain commercial security gates and barriers to support safe movement and reliable access control.

Automated equipment contains moving components and safety devices that need regular attention.

A suitable maintenance programme may include:

  • Mechanical components: Inspect tracks, hinges, rollers and other relevant moving parts.
  • Motors: Check suitable operating functions and investigate unusual noises.
  • Safety devices: Test relevant sensors, safety edges and protective arrangements.
  • Control equipment: Check operating commands and fault indications.
  • Manual release: Verify appropriate emergency procedures.
  • Access control: Test relevant intercoms, cards, keypads and interfaces.
  • Warning devices: Inspect suitable lights, signs and audible alerts.
  • Power supplies: Review electrical and backup equipment where applicable.
  • Structural condition: Identify corrosion, impact damage and loose components.
  • Records: Document inspections, defects and completed repairs.

Maintenance frequency should reflect the manufacturer’s guidance, operating conditions, usage levels and risk assessment.

For example, a gate serving a busy logistics site may need more frequent inspections than one with occasional use.

Also, stop using equipment that presents an immediate safety risk until a competent person has assessed it.

Ask SS Systems about suitable maintenance arrangements for your installation.

Choose a provider that understands commercial access management, automated entrance safety and the practical needs of your premises.

SS Systems provides security access gates and barriers, alongside access control and other commercial security services.

Before proceeding with a project, discuss:

  • Site survey: Confirm the entrance dimensions, ground conditions and surrounding hazards.
  • Security requirements: Explain which people and vehicles need authorised access.
  • Equipment selection: Compare suitable gates, barriers, turnstiles and rising kerbs.
  • Safety design: Review the risk assessment and required protective measures.
  • Access control: Confirm compatibility with relevant cards, keypads and intercoms.
  • Traffic management: Consider vehicle queues, pedestrian routes and delivery arrangements.
  • Emergency access: Agree suitable procedures for faults and power failures.
  • Installation: Review foundations, power supplies, cabling and site disruption.
  • Commissioning: Confirm the required operational and safety checks.
  • Maintenance: Discuss inspections, repairs and ongoing support.
  • Future expansion: Consider additional entrances, more users and changes to traffic levels.

Request a clear proposal that explains the equipment, installation requirements, safety arrangements and ongoing costs.

Also, ensure your team receives suitable operating instructions and understands how to report faults.

Bonus Tip: Create an entrance management register for every automated gate, barrier and turnstile on your site. Record its location, normal operating hours, authorised users, access method, emergency release procedure and maintenance schedule. Include the relevant safety checks, recent faults and any incidents involving vehicles or pedestrians. Review the register whenever you change access permissions, increase traffic levels or alter the entrance layout. This practical record can help your team manage security, identify recurring problems and provide useful information during maintenance visits.

Another UK Fire Service Revises Its AFA Protocol

By |August 5th, 2024|Categories: News|Tags: , , , , , |

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (OFRS) is the latest to revise its response protocol for automatic fire alarms (AFAs) at certain premises. Starting 10 October 2024, OFRS will only respond to AFAs if the building is classified as high-risk, a fire has been confirmed, or there are clear signs of a fire.

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