Automatic Gates and Emergency Exit Procedures: Ensuring Safety and Security

As our world becomes increasingly advanced and more populated, safety and security have become more essential than ever. One of the primary concerns of building owners, property managers, and homeowners is how to prevent unauthorized entry and ensure the safety of their occupants, guests, and employees. A system that has become increasingly popular in recent years for accomplishing these tasks is automatic gates. In this article, we will discuss what automatic gates are, the different types available, how they function, and emergency exit procedures. We will also provide answers to some frequently asked questions about automatic gates.

What are Automatic Gates?

Automatic gates are entry systems that open and close automatically with the use of sensors or remote controls. They are installed to provide a secure entrance to residential, commercial, or industrial areas. Automatic gates come in various shapes and sizes and are commonly made of metal, wood, or vinyl. These gates come in many designs that are customized to suit the style of the building they are installed in.

Different Types of Automatic Gates

There are a variety of types of automatic gates available, and the choice of gate will depend on the intended use and design of the property. The common types of automatic gates are:

1. Sliding gates: These gates have a series of wheels attached to them, allowing them to slide along a set of tracks. Sliding gates are ideal for industrial and commercial areas.

2. Swing gates: These gates open inward or outward and are typically used for residential or pedestrian access control.

3. Bi-fold gates: These gates are divided into two parts, making it possible to open the gate in a smaller space.

4. Boom barriers: These automatic gates are designed to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering a restricted area.

5. Automatic pivot gates: These types of gates pivot around vertical posts and are commonly found in car parks or parking lots.

How Automatic Gates Work

Automatic gates are designed to open and close automatically, usually by remote control or through sensors. The sensors can be:

1. Motion sensors: These sensors detect movement and signal the automatic gate to open or close.

2. Proximity sensors: These sensors detect nearby objects or people, causing the gate to open or close upon detection.

3. Pressure sensors: These sensors detect the weight of a vehicle or person, causing the gate to open or close accordingly.

All automatic gates come with additional safety features such as sensors that detect obstacles or safety edges that prevent a gate from closing when it detects an obstruction. Most automatic gates can also be installed with access control devices ranging from simple keypads to biometric readers.

Emergency Exit Procedures

One of the concerns with automatic gates is how to ensure safe exit during emergencies. During a fire or an emergency, it is essential to secure the safety of all occupants and allow easy egress without obstruction. Automatic gates come with several emergency exit procedures that are designed to ensure safe and fast evacuation. Some of the procedures include:

1. Manual override: This is the most common emergency exit procedure. Manual release keys or switches are installed in the gate control panel, which can operate the gate manually.

2. Battery backup: In the event of a power failure, a battery backup in the automatic gate system ensures it remains functional.

3. Fail-safe electronics: Many automatic gates use fail-safe electronic systems that continue to operate even in the event of an emergency.

FAQs Section

Q: How much does an automatic gate cost?

A: The cost of an automatic gate varies depending on the type, materials used, size, and the level of customization required. On average, a standard automatic gate can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000.

Q: How long does it take to install an automatic gate?

A: Installation of an automatic gate depends on several factors such as the size, complexity, and structure of the property. On average, installation can take anywhere from a few days to a week.

Q: How do I maintain my automatic gate system?

A: Regular maintenance is essential for ensuring the smooth operation of your automatic gate system. The maintenance schedule will depend on the frequency of use, environmental factors such as weather and location, and the type of automatic gate system.

Q: Can automatic gates be retrofitted?

A: Yes, automatic gates can be retrofitted in most cases. Retrofits will depend on the complexity of the job, the structure of the property, and the desired features.

Conclusion

Automatic gates are an excellent option for enhancing the security and safety of any property. When selecting an automatic gate system, it is essential to consider the intended use, the design of the building, and emergency exit procedures. It’s always best to have automatic gates installed by professionals to ensure proper operation and maintenance. With the addition of an automatic gate system and emergency exit procedures in place, the security and safety of your property will be well taken care of.