Posted by Kristen Fugere on Wed, Sep 26, 2012 @ 01:14 PM
Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection (AT-FP) is generally defined as a federal security program formed to protect personnel, information, and critical resources from outside attacks. These attacks could be attempted by the use of Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG), truck bombs, or any means of weighted attack force. Areas of planned security could include law enforcement buildings, intelligence and training facilities.
AT/FP Entry Systems or Gate Systems are created by using passive and/or non-passive barriers. These gate access systems are specifically designed to reach a level of protection that the facility mandates. These mandates are found in the projects specification section and are designed by highly qualified engineers.
Passive Barriers allow the passage of entering vehicles at all times. This can be achieved by placing jersey wall barriers in away that creates a maze for the vehicle to maneuver. This effectively forces the vehicle to slow down while permitting access. This is only one example of this type of passive barrier.
Non-Passive Barriers are actually permanent entry obstacles. These are things like bollards, wedge barricades, drop arms, slide gates and newly designed net systems. These barricades can be used in conjunction with fences and gates or can actually be mounted to fences and gates. They are used more often than passive barriers because they can be moved in and out of their location with ease. This allows instant entry and immediately re-barricaded areas. Pop up bollards and wedge barriers are a favorite among these non-passive barriers for their reliability and relative indestructibility.
To understand the AT/FP entry systems and their requirements, one must also understand the overall perimeter requirements of the system. ATFP passive perimeter security can be accomplished with the use of steel cables or steel guardrails. This can also be setup by any combination of natural and manmade features when natural barriers are not sufficient or present. This can be achieved with ditches and berms, or large bolder (3ft. x 5ft.) placement and forestation. Distance can also be a great ATFP device when used in combination with an uneven or bumpy surface. This will slow down any moving vehicle or a truck bomb that is attempting to implode a building surface. Remember that AT/FP perimeters are specifically intended to stop only vehicle traffic. This perimeter prevents a bomb threat, not theft.
It is easier to implement the AT/FP standards when working on new construction rather than attempting to retrofit the system into an existing environment. When retrofitting, much of the plan design work will be required to be done onsite and in an emergent way. This can lead to design difficulties and can turn out to be very costly. Conceiving a building or site around AT/FP barrier implements is much easier than situating the AT/FP elements around already existing structures. Imagine attempting to widen the distance between a building and the adjacent road line. It would be simpler to initially plan this rather than propose it at a later point in time.
Another method of obtaining this level of protection is to utilize Engineered K4|K8|K12 Ratings. These engineered barriers have not undergone the Department of State authorized test, but does meet engineering criteria for equivalent levels of protection. Most Non-DOS Certified systems (other than U.S. Army Corp of Engineers USACE or Military Handbook MIL-HDBK specified) will require an engineer stamp indicating compliance assuring the expected level of protection.
Article contributed By Meagan Stone.
Posted by Kristen Fugere on Wed, Aug 29, 2012 @ 08:04 AM
Fences and gates go hand in hand. Gate systems are designed to restrict entry and ensure the protection of assets and employees. They also are installed to work efficiently and virtually trouble free in any setting. We offer commercial gate systems in a wide variety of sizes and styles. These maneuverable barriers can be engineered to meet the needs of even the most complex structural demands.
If your access point…
Your gate is a Swing Arm Gate. This gate is a motorized unit that opens a gate arm from a horizontal to a vertical position. These can have an assortment of automatic controls, such as card readers, vehicle detectors/counters, reversing logic, which causes the arm to re-open should it strike an object, and anti-tailgating devices, which keep multiple vehicles from pulling through on a single cycle. Swing Arm Gates give you the ability to control pedestrian and or vehicle traffic on roadways up to 38’. Depending on your needs, you may opt to select a High Speed Swing Arm Gates that will open in less than two seconds,
using either 8 or 12' arms or a Heavy-duty gates, with arms up to 24'.
Your gate is the Slide Gate. This gate can be customized for a wide range of commercial applications but is most useful when the access point will be used very frequently. Although there are a wide range of styles, the most common is the two-rail slide gate. You may also choose the three-rail version which will allow the use of almost any material you wish to face the gate. The most commonly used materials include plastic, wood or metal. A well set up fence supplier can also custom fabricate a slide gate to match a wide range of already existing gate styles.
Your gate is a Cantilever Gate. Cantilever gates are perfect for smaller access points. The gate itself does not touch the ground and is supported by rollers, which are attached to two large side posts. It will have a tail that is used to support itself when it is in the open position. The only catch to this type of gate is that you must make sure that there is enough overhead clearance to guarantee that the gate can fully open. Cantilever gates can be constructed with a wide array of different fencing materials, but the distance of the opening will play an important role in determining which type of materials you can use to construct the gate. Lighter fabrication materials should be considered when spanning wide opening, which will make the overall weight of the gate lighter. You may also choose to automate your cantilever gate. This involves the addition of a slide gate operator that can be pad or post mounted. Automation provides a means to open or close the gate and the addition of safety devices such as safety loops, gate edges or photo eyes. Gate operators can be added to existing gates as well as new ones and integrated into any existing access control system.
Posted by Kristen Fugere on Thu, May 31, 2012 @ 02:12 PM
Vertical lift gate systems are used in situations that do not allow enough room for a simple slide gate or swing gate installation. These gates are adaptable to most limited space and terrain that are present at a site and come in a variety of continuous-duty operational models. Many federal, state, and local governments utilize vertical lift gates as the key form of entry. Mini-storage facilities, residential estates, gated communities use this style of gate as well.
A standard vertical lift gate can vary in length from 24’ to 26’ and in height up to 8’ and come in a wide variety of style choices from Arched Estate to chain link, in steel or aluminum. All of the safety and entry devices available for sliding or swinging gates are also readily available for lift gates. Custom and solar gates are also available, but some limitations - such as gate size and traffic volume - may limit the use of these gates.
While there are some ostensible drawbacks to vertical lift gate systems – most notably their high initial financial investment, however their reliability and low maintenance costs offset the expenditure over time. Should a vertical lift gate suffer damage from being struck by a vehicle, repairs can be expensive in comparison to dealing with damaged swing or slide gates.
Vertical lift gate systems are quite popular where space and terrain are a challenge. They are also in high demand where initial cost is not an issue. All safety features, including Fire and Police Entry systems, work well with these gates. Lift gates can be UL325 rated, and all their access control systems are compatible with vehicle loop detection and safety systems. Lift gates can also be equipped with various anti-climb materials for security purposes.
As mentioned before, vertical lift gate systems are also popular in residential estates and gated comminutes. These applications are a great fit from a reliability, safety, and speed of operation standpoint. In addition, the low maintenance for this type of gate system makes it hard to pass up when considering the needs of an estate or high volume gated community.
When considering a gate system for individual needs, be sure to consider all the advantages that vertical lift gates bring to the table. If space is at a premium then a vertical lift gate may just be the ideal system to purchase and install.
Article contributed by Michael Fugere.
Posted by Dawn Lowndes on Thu, Feb 09, 2012 @ 03:11 PM
Solar Fence Gate Operator Systems are just that. Systems that are powered by the sun. They 
are simply solar powered batteries or they can utilize a combination of both electrical auxiliary power and solar panels.
Gate size and weight, and traffic volume needs to be considered when planning any installation of a solar operator system. If the gate is too large or traffic volume is too great, solar power may not provide a reliable solution for the gate system. Swing gates greater than 18 feet long and weighing more than 850lbs, as well as slide gates of 30 feet or more and/or weighing over 1000lbs are not good candidates for solar installations. In addition, high volume traffic areas tend to drain the batteries too quickly. The constant opening and closing does not allow time for charging between the gate uses. Despite these solar operators limitations these systems have obvious benefits in financial savings and an ability to provide power to remote locations that do not have an alternate power source.
If your criteria allows for a total solar installation you will need to consider an entry system for the gate. An entry system (one other than a key switch) will have some additonal electrical draw on the batteries while the gate is not in use. This should be taken into consideration when planning access to the subject area. Your operator or access control provider can help you with this decision when you are planning your installation. Entry/exit, safety and emergency entrance operation devices will be covered at that time. All locations including residential, commercial or industrial can benefit electrical savings from using solar power. Taking advantage of solar fence tax credits that are available for government certified solar operator is a great unseen plus.
There is no specific number of gate openings or closings for any gate operating off of battery power. The operator manufacturer for the installation will be glad to give you an estimate for that particular gate.
Apollo, Chamberlain and GTO are just a few of the companies that provide solar powered operators. Swing gates and slide gates have been mentioned as having a solar option, but traffic barriers and most other automated gate operations can be configured to solar again depending of size and traffic volume. These products, with proper installation, have been very reliable and most have a limited warranty period of at least two years.
Location of the gate also needs to be assessed when evaluating the possibility of solar power. Climate and sun exposure are critical when planning for a reliable solar installation. Surrounding foilage must be maintained to allow the 'rays' to hit the panel.
When considering the need to provide hard wired power, pay for that power on continuing basis, or a potential Zombie Apocalyspe; choosing solar power is a “No Braaaaainer”. Hah!
But seriously... Solar systems are continuing to evolve and improve. The tax incentives provided to promote this type of energy system are a bonus to everyone. Check with your gate and operator provider for suggestions on all solar installations. Look at other installations in your local area and ask lots of questions.
Solar gate operator systems provide financial, environmental and operational benefits that other systems can not provide.
Posted by Dawn Lowndes on Thu, Oct 20, 2011 @ 02:02 PM
Vertical lift gate systems are used in situations that do not allow enough room for a simple slide or swing gate installation. These gates are adaptable to limited space and terrain that is present the site. They come in a variety of continuous-duty operational models. Many Federal, State and local governments use this form of entry gate systems at mini-storage facilities, residential estates and gated communities.
A standard vertical lift gate can vary in length from 24 to 26 feet and in height up to 8 feet. Lift gate choices vary widely from Arched Estate to Chain Link styles in steel or aluminum. All of the safety and entry devices that you find with sliding or swinging gate types are readily available with lift gates. Custom and solar gates are also available but the application, ie. Gate size and traffic volume, may limit the ability to use of these gates. These systems can be UL325 rated and extremely reliable in their operation.
There are disadvantages to vertical lift gate systems. First they are expensive in up front cost, however some will say that the reliability and less maintenance cost will offset this over the long run. The footprint of the operator and pad is quite large because of the increased support the gate. Choices, as compared to other gate types are somewhat limited without spending a large amount of cash on a custom gate design. Should a vertical lift gate suffer damage from being struck by a vehicle it is usually a more expensive repair than if you are simply dealing with a damaged swing or slide gate. Finally, the gate is limited to a maximum size due to the mode of operation and what is possible with present system designs.
Vertical lift gate systems are quite popular where space and terrain are a challenge. They are also in demand where initial cost is not the critical issue. All safety features including Fire and Police Entry systems work well with these gates. Lift Gates can be UL325 rated and all access control systems are compatible as well as vehicle loop detection and safety systems. The gates themselves can be equipped with many various materials to include anti-climb material.
We have talked about space and security in a commercial and federal setting, but many of these systems are installed in the private sector whether it is an estate gate or a gated community. These two setting are a good fit from a reliability, safety, security and speed of operation standpoint. In addition to these benefits, the low maintenance and high reliability of operation for this type of gate system proves a plus that is tough to pass up when considering the needs of an estate or high volume gated community. Again, the only minus is the initial cost to purchase and install these units.
When considering a gate system for your individual need, be sure to consider all the advantages that vertical lift gates bring to the table. If space is at a premium then a vertical lift gate may just be the system that you are looking to purchase and install.
Article contributed by Paul Moss
Posted by Dawn Lowndes on Thu, Aug 18, 2011 @ 11:51 AM
Professional fence companies sell a wide variety of gates for use in commercial applications. The gate systems are designed to restrict unwanted entry and ensure the protection of assets and employees. Gate systems are designed to work efficiently and virtually trouble free in any setting. We offer commercial gate systems in a wide variety of sizes and styles. These maneuverable barriers can be engineered to meet the needs of even the most complex structural demands.
The following are a few examples of routinely offered commercial gate systems.
Swing Arm Gates
Swing Arm Gates are motorized units that raise a gate arm from a horizontal position to a vertical position. They give you the ability to control pedestrian and/or vehicle traffic on roadways up to 38'. These gates can have an assortment of automatic controls, such as card readers, vehicle detectors/counters, reversing logic, which causes the arm to re-open should it strike an object, and anti-tailgating devices, which keep multiple vehicles from pulling through on a single cycle. A switch in a security office can also control them. Many companies also offer High Speed Swing Arm Gates IMAGE that will open in less than two seconds, using either 8 or 12' arms. Heavy-duty gates, with arms up to 24', are also available.
Slide Gates
Sliding Gates are often the best solution for commercial premises with busy access points. You must have room set aside for the gate in the open position. Installers can customize our slide gates to accommodate a wide range of commercial applications. Many different styles of slide gates are available of which the most common is a two-rail slide gate.
There are also three rail slide gates that will allow the use of almost any material you wish to face the gate. For this the commonly used materials are plastic, wood, or metal. A well set up fence supplier can also custom fabricate a slide gate to match a wide range of already existing gate styles.
Cantilever Gates
This gate is most often used when there is not enough room to accommodate the opening of a slide gate. The gate itself does not touch the ground and is supported by rollers, which are attached to two large side posts. The gate will have a tail that is used to support itself when it is in the open position. One thing to keep in mind when considering the installation of a cantilever gate is that you must have adequate overhead clearance to ensure that the gate can open fully. IMAGE Cantilever gates can be constructed with a wide array of different fencing materials, but the distance of the opening will play an important role in determining which type of materials you can use to construct the gate. Lighter fabrication materials should be considered when spanning wide opening, which will make the overall weight of the gate lighter.
Automation of a cantilever slide gate involves the addition of a slide gate operator that can be pad or post mounted. This provides a means to open or close the gate and the addition of safety devices such as safety loops, gate edges or photo eyes. Gate operators can be added to existing gates as well as new ones and integrated into any existing access control system.
Article Contributed By Fence Professional Chuck Billmyer
Posted by Dawn Lowndes on Tue, Jun 21, 2011 @ 02:34 PM
View this SHORT video to better understand some of the different types of fence and gate apparatus.
Video contributed by fence professional Todd Jones
Posted by Dawn Lowndes on Wed, Mar 16, 2011 @ 02:49 PM
Automated gate operators require safety devices, known as Entrapment Protection, to prevent moving gates from striking individuals or vehicles. The standard set for Automated Gate Operation is the UL325 standard as set by The Underwriter’s Laboratory and it consists of four classes of gates. Class 1 is a gate operation that most likely to come in contact with the public such as a personal residence. Class 2 is intended for commercial locations or multi-family housing units, hotels or garages. Class 3 is intended for an industrial location, factory or an area not intended to serve the general public. Finally, Class 4 is placed in a location such as an airport, restricted areas or any area that is restricted to public access.
The lower the class of gate, such as Class 1, the more safety devices will be required. These devices can consist of vehicle detection safety loops, photo eye sensors, gates edges, adjustable clutches, continuous pressure opening or closing devices, strobe lights and audio alarms are probably the most used safety devices for gate systems. These devices are explained in more detail below. Class 1 and 2 gates will require a combination of several safety devices to meet a UL325 rating. Class 3 requires two devices and Class 4 only requires one.
Safety loops are wire sensors that are buried in the existing surface area of a gate. They are designed to sense the presence of metal (maybe a vehicle or lawn mower) and they will hold the gate open or actually reverse the gate when a metal presence is noted. Photo safety eyes project a photosensitive beam that, if broken, indicates an obstruction and reverses the gate away from that object. Gate Edges actually reverse a moving gate when pressure is applied to the edge itself. The gate edge strip is attached the leading edges of a gate and if pressure is applied to that edge an obstruction is noted and the gate will automatically reverse. Continuous pressure open or close buttons will stop a gate as soon as pressure is released from the button in use. Audible and visual alarms provide protection for those distracted by other events or who may be handicapped in some manner.
Automated gate installations are best served by a combination of photo both safety cells and safety loops. Vehicle and pedestrian safety are best addressed when this combination is used, and the UL325 standard can be maintained.
Barrier arms require the same devices as gates. The number of loops required will vary with each type of gate access control system. As a rule slide gates require two loops, barrier gates require two loops and swing gates require three. All other safety devices can be used as designed in any of these installations.
Gate automation must be a secure yet safe to operate. The previously mentioned steps should be taken to protect people and property from unintended injury or damage during the opening or closing of any automated gate. If you have a question as to what class of gate you have or what safety devices you need to reach a certain certification just ask you operator or access control provider to help design a system to meet your desired safety requirement.
Posted by Dawn Lowndes on Mon, Mar 14, 2011 @ 03:39 PM
Cantilever slide gates eliminate the requirement for ground tracks or overhead support rails. Cantilever construction allows for overhanging structures without external bracing. These gates have framework that is fixed at one end and is free at the other as seen in the image below. These sliding gates provide a fast, reliable and efficient method of operating a gate for vehicle access. These gates can be made of steel, chain link or aluminum materials. They are durable, safe and can be manually or system operated with ease.
Aluminum cantilever slide gates offer certain advantages over steel cantilever slide gates. Aluminum gates are lighter than steel cantilever gates and operate on fixed top or bottom track truck assemblies. Larger gate sizes can be accommodated at much less weight and that weight can be distributed over two or more truck assemblies. Less weight means larger gates can be operated manually or automated with less powerful gate operators, which results in lower cost for installation and operation.
Lighter weight and the aluminum finish add to the physical and operational life of the gate. Gate rollers do not offer the smooth operation of truck assemblies and rollers can require monthly maintenance depending on size and type of roller. There are a few disadvantages of steel versus aluminum as steel can take more abuse than aluminum and you don’t have track damage issues if a vehicle hits the gate. Steel cantilever gates are initially less expensive than aluminum cantilever gates.
Aluminum cantilever gates, because of the weight and weight distribution advantage can cover large gate openings with relative ease of operation both manually and automated. Aluminum cantilever gates are recommended for high volume continuous duty operation. Aluminum cantilever gates may just be your best investment depending on gate size, mode of operation and traffic volume. Aluminum cantilever gates are available in chain link and ornamental styles.
Automation of a cantilever slide gate involves the addition of a slide gate operator that can be pad or post mounted, a means to open or close the gate and the addition of safety devices such as safety loops, gate edges or photo eyes. Gate operators can be added to existing gates as well as new ones and integrated into any existing access control system. The number and type of safety devices required for gate automation is determined by the class of gate (i.e. 1,2,3 or 4) and if UL325 is required for that installation.
Simple Chainlink Cantilever Gate.
Posted by Dawn Lowndes on Wed, Jan 19, 2011 @ 03:16 PM
SUMMER IS FUN!
And so is your very own a backyard pool. It can be a great source of exercise and relaxation. Kids and adults can join in on the fun, but pools must be made safe for all!
Yes, there are very specific safety regulations on pool fence gates. The BOCA (Building Officials and Code Administrators) is a code that governs pool barriers and gates, among many other building codes. It calls for all pool gates to be self-closing and latching. The latches and hinges can and will differ depending on style of fence.
For example:
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Ornamental fence pool gates use a self-closing hinge in which the spring is actually located inside the hinge. This latch must be mounted at least 54” high from ground in order to be out of the reach of curious children. These latches also have a spring-loaded knob that can be easily height adjusted to meet code requirements.
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Wood fence pool gates employ a strap hinge that is in no way spring loaded. A sturdy spring can be added to the post in order to force gate closed. It is also possible to use the ornamental spring latches for wood pool gates seeking to meet BOCA code.
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PVC fence pool gates use a self-closing hinge that also has a spring located within the hinge and the latch that is used for wood and ornamental can also be used for PVC.
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Chain-link fence pool gate hinges are not self-closing. Again, a sturdy spring must be added to the post, thereby forcing the gate closed. The latches used for wood, ornamental, and PVC can also be used for chain link fence.
The most commonly used latches and hinges for pool fence are manufactured by Tru-close. There are other manufacturing companies that make the same style latches and hinges.
Safety and Liability are always of issue to homeowners. Nobody wants a child’s drowning on his or her conscience. Furthermore, death by accidental drowning is absolutely the homeowner’s legal responsibility if the unwanted swimmer enters a pool that does not have the proper code meeting safety equipment. You will want to protect yourself and your wealth from a potentially disastrous lawsuit. Insurance companies will also require that your pool meet safety regulations to insure you. Local laws may apply, so look closely at the local code or ask your local fence or pool installation company. The regulations set forth in BOCA code are standard for most states and are set to maintain the safety and security of all of the United States. When choosing your installation people it is imperative that they are knowledgeable and professional. Your safety and security are at stake in the pool code arena.