What to Consider when Buying Barriers

If you’ve decided it’s time to upgrade your security systems at your site, then one of your first ports of call should be perimeter security. One essential component of site security that should always be considered when enquiring about upgrades is a barrier. Here is what to consider when buying barriers.

Why invest in barriers?

A simple but effective solution, barriers are, when used the right way, are a highly effective tool in preventing crime. They deter opportunists and leave them with no doubts that your business takes things seriously. Barriers ensure that you have control over who can access your site, and when they can do so. Allowing you either to automatically, or with the help of manned personnel, control entry to your premises. However, while you may have already heard enough to interest you in a barrier, there are some important factors to consider before making a purchase.

Level of Security needed

One of the first questions you need to ask yourself is with regards to the level and robustness of security that is needed at your site. While for some businesses security needs are understandably at the very top of their agenda, some businesses have other agendas to balance. For instance, a site that receives heavy traffic might require a different type of barrier to one which is only occasionally accessed. Equally, you may be a business that wants to balance its security needs with a friendly and welcoming environment.

Automatic or Manual?

A second consideration is whether you require automatic barriers or manual. They each are suitable in different situations. Automatic barriers require electricity in order to operate, so somewhere isolated may prefer to install manual barriers, particularly if electricity access is restricted. Additionally, your business may prefer, for security or logistical reasons, to have a manned manual barrier in place over an automatic barrier.

While manual barriers are often preferred in more rural settings, automatic barriers do offer many specialised benefits. Automatic barriers are more difficult for criminals to bypass and overhaul which makes them a particularly reliable choice.  They can be enhanced with access control equipment and also provide support to businesses who do not have the budget or manpower to physically attend a manual barrier and provide access to visitors. Automatic barriers are often found at parking facilities, checkpoints, and for other types of restricted areas.

Height Restriction

Height restrictor barriers are another popular choice. Especially for car parks and service stations where the risk of overstays and unauthorised long-term parking issues. They are also great for where you need to prevent access to high vehicles. They are also a welcome addition to areas where automatic barriers are either not cost-effective, or not required.

Cost

Cost is always a key consideration for businesses and understandably it is important to make sensible decisions to match your budgets. Businesses should take part in a feasibility study before making a decision on which products to choose. This will help ensure you are recommended the best solutions to match your needs. Not only can you be confident that you’ve picked the right product, but you are also protected against criminal activity.
Gateway Automation provides a range of perimeter security systems to help businesses and individuals to secure their sites. We also provide nationwide servicing and repairs to gates, access control equipment, barriers, and other perimeter security equipment too. To find out more, contact us on 01522 68255 or take a look at our brochure here: http://www.gatewayautomation.co.uk/brochure/.