Maritime Security: the role of Access control at ports and harbours

Ports and harbours are busy, complex environments with large numbers of people and goods moving in and out of them every day. Traditionally the nature of ports and harbours have made them a target for criminal gangs and smugglers, however the maritime industry now also faces the very real threat of terrorism due to the vital input that harbours and ports have in the UK’s economy. Here we will look at how access control equipment can play a critical role in defending vessels, cargo and protecting the supply chain in maritime environments.

First, it’s important to understand that, as with almost every type of premises, there is no ‘magic bullet’ solution to deal with the threat of crime. Any approach to security at ports and harbours should revolve around a holistic strategy. This means a combination of both physical security options like access control equipment, lighting and CCTV as well as operational security through manned guarding and checkpoints, as well as a company culture that puts security and identification at the forefront of operations.

What role can access control equipment play?
In a nutshell, access control equipment serves to control the access of vehicles and of persons into a port or harbour. This in turn can help to reduce the threat of smuggling, disruption to trade, theft and potential terrorist attacks. Every port is of course different, and measures need to be identified appropriately through a risk assessment, but there are several options available which will likely have a positive impact in the protection of a port or harbour.

One of the toughest security solutions that we provide is the GA80000 Automatic Rising Kerb. A formidable first line of defence against unwanted vehicle access, it is a strong visible deterrent with yellow and black warning stripes and tall stature to stop cars, vans and lorries.

We also offer anti-terrorism bollards and impressive crash-tested road blockers to deal with potential terrorist attacks aimed at disrupting UK infrastructure.

Barriers are an important way of controlling access to only authorised and scheduled visitors. We provide fully automatic barriers which can be controlled by push-buttons, tokens, proximity cards, pins, CCTV or by on-site security guards.

Swing gates,  sliding gates and bi-folding gates are among the strongest barriers to unauthorised entry and a strong physical deterrent.

Gateway Automation can help the maritime industry to protect their assets from crime with minimum disruption and while maintaining safe and comfortable working environments for staff and customers. For a free non-obligation quotation and feasibility survey please contact Gateway Automation on 01522 682255. Alternatively, our brochure can be downloaded here: http://www.gatewayautomation.co.uk/brochure/.

Should your business still be using physical keys?

As far back as the ancient Egyptians, humans have used physical keys to safely secure their belongings and their property. Using falling pins to control the movement of a security bolt and a key to free it, the Egyptians were among the first to recognise the value of lock and key systems. Improved upon by the Romans, it wasn’t until the 19^th century and the industrial revolution that locks and keys became a safe way of securing anything of importance with improved resistance to fire, chemicals, explosives and brute force.

However, as a means of security, physical keys will always remain flawed in that they can be easily copied or given to someone who you do not want to have them – a common headache for business owners. This is why in recent years we have witnessed a huge growth in the number of businesses turning to other means of access control.

In the motoring sector, many of today’s manufacturers are turning to electronic devices as a means of unlocking and even starting the engine of their cars. At present more than 80% of vehicles are accessed with some kind of electronic key fob.

The hotel industry has also begun to take note of the improved security and convenience of electronic access control with the large majority of hotels now providing guests with a key fob or card rather than a physical key which can be copied and is expensive to replace. It also provides businesses with an easy way to cut down on bills as the card has to be inserted in a holder to be triggered and cuts out as soon as it is removed – when the guest leaves the room.

Here at Gateway Automation we offer a range of secure access control equipment to businesses and individuals to protect their buildings and assets. These include push button access controls, biometric fingerprint readers, keypads, proximity devices and other exciting technology.

Whereas keys can be easily copied, our technology provides a strong barrier against unauthorised access by eliminating the need for physical keys.

Gateway Automation can provide free, no obligation quotes and feasibility surveys for your premises. To get us to assess your security requirements, please contact us here.