Designing Buildings - User contributions [en]

Sliding vs Swing gates

2024-12-20T11:37:33Z

Newgate: Created page with "When choosing a gate for your business, there are many different options available, but the main choice you will need to make is between a sliding or swing gate. This can be dete..."

When choosing a gate for your business, there are many different options available, but the main choice you will need to make is between a sliding or swing gate. This can be determined by the space that you have available, the terrain and the local environment, as well as the way you want your gate to look and function.

In this article, [https://www.newgate.uk.com/ Newgate] we take a look at what both sliding and swing gates can offer in terms of security, functionality and practicality to help you choose the right one for your business.

== What is a swing gate? ==

A [https://www.newgate.uk.com/gates/swing-gates/ swing gate] is one which will typically open inwards or outwards and can be electrically powered or opened without any use of a motor. They can be secured by a latch, deadlock, padlock or combination key padlock, and railheads can be added for an attractive touch as well as deterring anyone from climbing over. They can be made in single or double leaf formations depending on the size of your driveway and entrance.

Swing gates can provide tremendous simplicity, which often means they are a more affordable option. When it comes to installing these gates, there will be no need to dig your driveway or car park for any concrete footings, and they won't need space at either side of your gates for the gate panels to run into. These types of gates often have a strong aesthetic appeal and are ideal for a wide range of different properties.

== The benefits of a swing gate ==

Typically, swing gates are often more affordable than sliding gates due to their simpler construction. They also usually require a little less maintenance and repair due to the fact that there are fewer parts involved. One of their biggest advantages is the fact that they are suitable for narrow openings, as there is no space required at the side of the gate for it to slide open.

== What is a sliding gate? ==

A [https://www.newgate.uk.com/gates/sliding-security-gates/ sliding gate] will run on tracks or a trackless cantilever system enabling it to open by sliding sideways rather than inwards or outwards. They are often preferred when there is limited space or rough ground and are suitable for a wide range of commercial and residential properties.

== The benefits of a sliding gate ==

A sliding gate is a compact installation which leaves more room on your drive, car park or entranceway for parking. If there is limited space for a gate to open outwards or inwards, then a sliding gate could be a more appropriate choice.

Sliding gates can also be more suitable for drives and entranceways that have slopes or uneven ground or have a sharp turn to the left or right. If a swing gate was fitted, it would need a greater amount of clearance to open and close that sloped or turning roads would not be able to accommodate.

They can also be harder to force open and so could be a more secure option for a business to install. A sliding gate can also be beneficial if your entrance opens out onto a busy pavement or road. This can often mean you have limited space for a swing gate to open inwards or outwards, and so a sliding gate can be a safer and more practical option in these circumstances.

Sliding gates can also fare better in bad weather, as they are less likely to be affected by the wind. And can provide a more contemporary look in a modern space.

== Choosing the right gate for your business ==

Both sliding gates and swing gates offer their own advantages, so it can be difficult to choose between the two. When making your choice, you need to keep your budget in mind and find something that is affordable to install and maintain.

One of the most important factors will be the space that is available. Swing gates require more space between the gate and the vehicle to ensure it can open without hitting anything while sliding gates require a wider space in order for them to open effectively. The width of a swing gate will tell you exactly how much clearance is needed for it to open without obstruction. For sliding gates, you will need to ensure that there is nothing that will block them on either side of the driveway so you may need to rework any planting that is in this area.

Maintenance is also an important consideration, whilst it will be necessary for both types of gates, a sliding gate has more components to it, as well as a track that will need to be cleaned regularly to ensure that dirt, debris and leaves do not block it and stop it from working properly.

Safety should also be an important consideration as sliding gates can only move in a straight line. You may find that swing gates have more trapping points around the hinges which could raise safety concerns depending on your environment. You will therefore need to put certain precautions in place including safety beam photocells, safety pressure edges or finger trap guards.

The power and speed of your gates should also be taken into account. As swing gates move a shorter distance than sliding gates. In order to open fully, they can have a slightly quicker opening mechanism. If your business is busy with visitors and deliveries all day, this might be a more practical option in a high traffic area. However, swing gates will require more power to move them in windy conditions and so you need to ensure you have the right motor fitted.

The choice of gate is up to you, but it is important that you take certain practicalities into consideration in order to find the right option. Once you have chosen the way that you want your gate to work, you can then look at other aspects, including things like the finish, colour and style to make sure that your gate is perfect for making the right first impression for your business.

[[Category:Projects_and_case_studies]] [[Category:Property_development]]

Why specifications are important to your business

2022-03-14T15:53:04Z

Newgate: Created page with "Every construction project needs a specification document to help keep it on track making it an essential part of the process. The National Building Specification (NBS) provides ..."

Every construction project needs a specification document to help keep it on track making it an essential part of the process. The National Building Specification (NBS) provides construction specification information for a range of building professionals to describe the materials and standards of a construction project. This often describes the things that diagrams, and models are not able to show, and it is crucial to the construction industry and all of those that work within it.

It is a document which is becoming increasingly vital, not only for the delivery of a project, but also for the legality and compliance of it too. Here, we take a look at the role of the specification and why it is of such importance.

What is a specification?

In the construction world, a specification can cover a number of different things, including the site establishment, the type of contract, asset performance criteria, systems and product quality, the specific products and materials to be used and the applicable standards being used and how they are executed.

The specification itself can relate to either the project or the procurement route, whether that is performance based, prescriptive or proprietary. The specification will be required at the design stage and will form a part of the contract documentation, so it forms the foundations of the whole project.

Generally speaking, it is recommended to start writing this document as early as possible to incorporate as much information as you can so that it can provide a better understanding of the performance requirements of a project. The specification can then grow as the project is developed and encompass each element effectively.

You will need to make sure that the specification outlines your requirements for the project and the expected levels of quality and standards that are applicable to the job. You may need to include supporting drawings to capture a lot of different details and enough information to allow a contractor to price the job quickly and correctly.

Lucinda Thorpe, Business Development Executive at [https://www.newgate.uk.com/ Newgate] commented "A good specification should be thought of as an instruction manual for your project, so take the time to ensure that it gives clear instructions, focusing on the expected outcomes rather than the process of delivery. It can be a huge tool when it comes to the efficiency of a construction project, and ensures that each stage runs smoothly and with as few hitches and hiccups as possible."

The specification can also be used as a tool to ensure that your client is happy, as it can be used to interpret the brief that you have been given. It shows that you have understood what is required and can be reviewed by the client to check on performance criteria. As the specification evolves throughout the project, it will become a useful asset for maintenance teams working on the building once it is put into use.

By putting all of this detail in writing, almost like [https://www.newgate.uk.com/blog/the-importance-of-conducting-a-security-risk-assessment/ a security risk asessment], it can avoid any future disputes and minimise any risk of complaints of action further down the line. Another way to avoid complications later on is by defining your requirements in a specification document to ensure that there is statutory compliance in place.

This helps to reduce the risk of penalties later on as it is easier to verify that the documented requirements have been met. The specification forms part of the contract documentation and is therefore legally binding, so it is important to make sure that it is correct and up to date at all times.

== The importance of being specified ==

Specification lies at the centre of any construction project, and its importance cannot be underestimated. The Building Safety Bill has been brought in to improve established protocol for the design and construction of safer buildings and this includes ‘stage gates’ which creates extra requirements for the specification. This will be available for scrutiny and approval by the HSE, and failure to achieve this will put the brakes on any project.

Sustainability is now a huge consideration for the [https://www.newgate.uk.com/sectors/industrial/ construction industry], and there are increasing moves to make the design and construction of new buildings more sustainable. The specification can outline the green credentials of any project and the decision-making process behind this to ensure that it can be approved by all parties involved.

Using the right technology allows different people to contribute to the specification from wherever they are. This can become a truly effective working document that can be updated regularly, despite the fact that we now work in a world where we are rarely in the same room together. The improved use of technology can also be worked into safety testing, waste control and many other processes to make sure that the specification contains all of the essential information that it needs.

By ensuring that your specification is correct, accurate and thorough, you can ensure that it is compliant in every possible way. As regulations and legislation changes, it can provide greater levels of transparency and accountability throughout the entire process and allows you to stay ahead of the curve when changes are afoot. It can ensure that your project is efficient too, by presenting product data clearly, making it easier for others to work with.

A specification document is not the job of one single person, and so it can help to encourage collaborative working from the very beginning of the project. Many find that it can save both time and money, which means that clients are likely to be happier too. This will benefit your business and its reputation massively whilst also keeping your project on the right side of the law at all times.

The specification document has been created in order to save everyone some very important time and money. By making it clear and accurate, the client can be sure that they are happy, and the contractor can get on with their job ensuring that the best results are delivered for all. It is something which needs careful consideration and effort in order to make sure that the entire project runs as smoothly as possible.

--[[User:Newgate|Newgate]] 15:53, 14 Mar 2022 (BST)

[[Category:Education]]

What is causing the rise in steel prices?

2021-11-29T16:12:48Z

Newgate: Created page with "The unusual circumstances that have hit the world over the last few years have meant that many prices have started to rise, and that includes the price of steel. Since the beginn..."

The unusual circumstances that have hit the world over the last few years have meant that many prices have started to rise, and that includes the price of steel. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, steel prices have rocketed and demand is at an all-time high, but why is this happening and what does it mean for the future?

It is easy to simply blame the pandemic for the [https://www.newgate.uk.com/news-events/uk-steel-industry-rising-energy-costs/ cost of steel rising in such a dramatic way], but this is not the only factor at play. Whilst other materials such as lumber have been through similar patterns of demand, the prices have changed as the world returns to normal. This is not a trend that has been seen with steel though, and many manufacturers are now becoming concerned that this price hike might be here to stay.

== Steel prices ==

Steel is a commodity that is always in demand, and as such, it has always commanded a healthy price. However, when we see changes in supply for the raw materials used in steel, it becomes clear that the price will be on the increase. Since the start of 2020, many different factors have combined to mean that the cost of production has risen, and demand has outstripped supply to create an unusual set of circumstances that could not be predicted.

Lucinda Thorpe, Business Development Executive at [https://www.newgate.uk.com/ Newgate] commented on the situation, “Since March 2020, steel prices have risen by an incredible 215%. When the initial pandemic lockdowns began, a large number of steel mills shut down their production in fear of an impending recession. However, as everyone sat at home wondering what they could do to improve their living spaces, they began to buy steel laden products like fridges, barbecues and lawn mowers, leaving steel mills caught short as manufacturers started to place large orders in order to keep up with the consumer.”

As the world has begun to reopen, that home-based demand has pulled back, but in industrial settings it is still in high demand. Steel heavy industries such as oil and gas are seeing huge demand thanks to the extra heating costs of people working from home, a return to air travel and more daily commutes taking place. Many construction projects which had been put on hold also swung back into action, adding to the demand even further as they rush to catch up with the developments that had been left waiting. As people scramble for material for all sorts of uses, the cost of steel is being driven higher and higher.

China is currently the world’s largest steel producer, and its own lockdowns have created drastic supply issues across the globe. With many Chinese steel mills either closed down or working at reduced capacity, the backlog became clear very quickly. Much of the demand for stainless steel has initially come from Asian countries but this has now spread further afield. The rising cost of iron ore has meant that steel mills are not enjoying higher profits and this is only serving to push the price of what they produce higher.

This is not the only reason for the rise in steel prices, as global supply chains are creating their own issue. A microchip shortage is holding back car production, but it is likely that when that bottle is uncorked, the demand for steel will be even higher as car manufacturers begin to play catch-up and become desperate to ramp up their efforts. Freight shortages brought on by Brexit and the pandemic have also increased demand and therefore prices as well, as shifting the raw materials as well as the finished product has now also become a more costly business.

Car manufacturers are also playing another role thanks to their demand for nickel. This is something which is being increasingly used in electric vehicle batteries, and with demand for these cars increasing day by day, it is no surprise that rising prices of nickel is also being seen. As nickel is one of the key components of stainless steel it stands to reason that this is another contributing factor to the price rises.

In this country, we have seen plenty of examples of panic buying, but it seems that many industries have not learnt from the queues at petrol stations and empty shelves where toilet paper once stood. The lower availability of steel has meant that many companies are now stocking up on whatever they can get their hands on which once again reduces availability for others and drives prices even further upwards.

== What does the future hold? ==

It is predicted that steel prices will eventually fall back to more sensible levels, thanks in part to the softening of input costs, iron ore and increased competition from cheaper imports. However, with demand for electric vehicles only set to get bigger, the price of nickel is likely to continue to increase. This is likely to have a long-term impact on steel prices which means that we might not see them return to anything that resembles what we were used to.

The predicted recovery of the global economy will help, and construction is thought to be one of the most powerful sectors behind this. Recently, steel mills appear to have been filling up orders, and there is a sense that normal production levels are set to return in the near future. However, with a lot of catching up to do, steel prices are expected to remain high for a while yet.

Steel is a material that is in demand across the world and in a vast number of industries. It is hard to see a future where it is not in demand and so it is likely to take time for production levels to return to what they once were and clear the backlog of orders. Once this does start to take shape, we are likely to see a more true reflection of the price when the cost of raw materials can be taken seriously and demand becomes something more recognisable.

--[[User:Newgate|Newgate]] 16:12, 29 Nov 2021 (BST)

[[Category:Projects_and_case_studies]] [[Category:Publications_/_reports]] [[Category:Research_/_Innovation]]

Protecting sports grounds and event arenas post COVID

2021-02-20T13:49:17Z

Newgate: Created page with "Hopefully, 2021 will be the year sports grounds and events arenas can open up for business as usual. Now would therefore be a good time for businesses to review [https://www.newg..."

Hopefully, 2021 will be the year sports grounds and events arenas can open up for business as usual. Now would therefore be a good time for businesses to review [https://www.newgate.uk.com/sectors/stadiums-and-sports-grounds/ venue security]. With that in mind, here are some key points to consider.

=== Crowd control is likely to be a major issue ===

The nature of sports grounds and event arenas is that they host major events. The nature of major events is that they are exciting. This means that there are usually challenges with crowd control. Most of these are purely about people getting over-enthusiastic and/or over-eager to get early access.

Now take all that and multiply it by the “COVID-factor”. Once the UK finally moves out of pandemic restrictions, people are understandably going to be desperate for live entertainment. Realistically, this fact has implications which go way beyond just dealing with rowdy ticket-holders.

Firstly, it’s going to increase the likelihood that people are going to try to access venues by unauthorized means. This may be because the effects of COVID19 have left them without the funds to buy tickets. It could also be because there are no tickets to be had.

Secondly, it increases opportunities for touts and fraudsters. Touts do at least sell real tickets, albeit at massively inflated prices. Fraudsters, however, sell fake tickets. Their victims may only discover they’ve been scammed when they arrive and they may have spent a lot of money and/or travelled a long way.

=== Petty crime is also likely to be a concern ===

On a similar note, the economic impact of COVID19 could well lead to an increase in petty crime. This could be both vandalism (as a result of boredom and frustration) and theft (for economic reasons). If venues fail to implement [https://www.newgate.uk.com/barriers/ effective crowd-control measures] then petty criminals could essentially operate unchecked (literally and figuratively).

=== Terrorism remains a possibility ===

Significant, premeditated attacks are, fortunately, very rare. There is, however, no room for complacency. At present, it’s impossible to say what impact, if any, COVID19 will have on the likelihood of terror attacks. Venues, must, however, prepare for the worst given that successful attacks tend to have a truly horrendous impact.

=== Security will depend on pre-event organization ===

Venues will have to keep up their fight against touts and scammers to ensure that only legitimate ticket-holders arrive at the venue in the first place. They will then need to ensure that these ticket holders know exactly what is expected of them. Basically, venues need to take away the excuse of ignorance.

On the plus side, venues may be able to adopt and adapt some of the crowd-control measures developed as a result of COVID19. In particular, they may want to start encouraging patrons to wait at a distance from the venue until you are ready to call them. This can make patrons more comfortable as well as making life easier for security personnel.

=== It is vital to secure your perimeter ===

Securing your perimeter is a security fundamental in any environment. It takes on a whole new level of significance for sports grounds and event arenas. These venues, essentially by definition, are designed to be open. This makes it effectively impossible to implement meaningful [https://www.newgate.uk.com/access-control-systems/ access controls] once people are inside the main area.

Venues should therefore do whatever they can to maintain control of their immediate surroundings. This may involve working with relevant parties (e.g. local authorities) to agree on a balance between security concerns and privacy concerns.

=== Invest in securing private areas ===

Firstly, you need to ensure that malicious actors cannot exploit weak security in (what should be) private areas. Secondly, you need to ensure that staff do not fall victim to lack of security. This means that you need to be willing to invest both in physical deterrents (e.g. security doors and shutters) and staff training.

--[[User:Newgate|Newgate]] 13:49, 20 Feb 2021 (BST)

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]]

Supermarket security and COVID-19

2020-09-23T13:08:15Z

Newgate: Created page with "In the context of [https://www.newgate.uk.com/sectors/retail/ supermarkets], the term “security” probably conjures up images of deterring shoplifters. This is still both very..."

In the context of [https://www.newgate.uk.com/sectors/retail/ supermarkets], the term “security” probably conjures up images of deterring shoplifters. This is still both very true and very important. Currently and, sadly, for the foreseeable future, however, managing COVID19-related situations will also need to be a priority.

Even when COVID19 ceases to be an issue, businesses will want to be ready for another pandemic to avoid a repeat of the recent chaos. With that in mind, here are some points to consider.

== Use of personal vehicles is likely to be relatively high ==

Out-of-town supermarkets are probably already run on the assumption that most, if not all, of their customers will need secure parking. Supermarkets in urban areas, by contrast, often have very little parking on the logic that a significant percentage of their customers will use public transport.

COVID19 is, however, encouraging people to use their own vehicles whenever they can. This means that urban supermarkets will need to ensure that their [https://www.newgate.uk.com/sectors/car-parks/ car parks] are run to the highest possible standards of efficiency and security.

== Human staff may be needed to monitor the use of parking spaces ==

Increased use of personal vehicles means increased possibilities for confusion and, frankly, conflict over parking spaces. It also increases the likelihood of deliberate breaches, such as the inappropriate use of disabled parking bays.

The most effective approach to dealing with this is likely to be to have human staff on hand to referee the situation. These don’t necessarily all have to be security staff, but it could be useful to have at least one member of security staff on duty, just to be on the safe side.

== Using a ticketed queueing system can ease congestion both outside and inside ==

Ticketed queueing systems have been in use for years. The only difference is that staff would assign customers tickets as they arrived and then alert them when it was their turn to enter the supermarket.

This allows customers to wait in their cars in comfort and safety. This will improve their experience and hopefully put them in a better frame of mind when they do enter the store. This is good for them and good for your staff.

== Clear markings on outdoor surfaces and floors can aid social distancing ==

Once people are out of their cars, you need to do whatever you can to make it easy for them to follow the necessary social-distancing rules. You also have to make sure that their general safety is maintained. After all, there’s no point in keeping people socially-distant from each other if it results in somebody walking into the path of a car.

All the usual security precautions still need to be followed. In fact, arguably, there’s an even greater need for them. This is because the increased use of personal vehicles could present increased opportunities for criminals.

== A semi-click-and-collect approach can ease pressure on parking ==

If supermarkets really need to get people in and out of the store as quickly as possible, then the most efficient approach would be to have staff do as much as they can to pre-pack customers’ orders. Customers can then use their time in the store to select the items they want to choose themselves.

Obviously, this poses logistical challenges and will not be suitable in all cases, but it is still worth keeping in mind.

--[[User:Newgate|Newgate]] 14:08, 23 Sep 2020 (BST)

[[Category:Education]] [[Category:Research_/_Innovation]] [[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]] [[Category:Standards_/_measurements]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]]

Safeguarding at school

2020-06-17T14:02:05Z

Newgate:

The COVID-19 has disrupted a variety of business sectors and industries, perhaps none more so than the [https://www.newgate.uk.com/sectors/schools-and-education/ education sector], which has suffered greatly due to the lack of social distancing that can be applied.

Up until recently the government guidelines regarding schools and education was very clear, in that only the children of key workers and vulnerable children could attend childcare settings.

However, as the UK lockdown begins to ease ad rules about social distancing are becoming more relaxed, the government has set out new guidelines as to which children can attend schools.

According to the [https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-school-closures/guidance-for-schools-about-temporarily-closing official government website]; from the first of June children who attend nursery have been allowed to attend. Primary schools are also allowed to welcome back children in key transition years including those in nursery, reception, year one and year six.

As of the 15th June, secondary schools and colleges have been able to welcome back pupils from year ten and year 12 as well as post sixteen learners, in year one of their course, for face to face support from teachers to support their remote learning activities.

With that in mind it is important to ensure that schools will be able to keep your children safe not only from COVID-19 but also from a security point of view.

How will schools adapt to COVID-19?

There are currently no definitive government guidelines on how schools should take precautions post COVID-19 and each school is likely going to have their own health and safety systems in place.

However the government does suggest the following precautionary measures:

* Carrying out a full risk assessment before opening to a vast amount of children and young people
* Ensuring that children or young people do not attend should they or their family experience any symptoms of COVID-19
* Promoting regular hand washing and other hygiene methods and ensuring that these are carried out correctly
* Introducing more frequent cleaning and sanitisation systems on surfaces, door handles and any play equipment/toys
* Minimising contact through smaller class sizes

Other systems that schools could implement are staggered drop off and collection times to minimise large congregations of people, breaking up groups of children during break times and a social distancing rule within hallways.

How will student be kept safe once they are back at school?

As a parent there is always the worry that something will happen to their child and ensuring that children are kept safe whilst in an educational environment should be the number one priority.

With children returning back to school their overarching safety has become a concern and it is essential that schools can reassure parent that they have the sufficient systems in place to protect and monitor their children.

Traditional security methods such as CCTV, Alarms and security fencing are widely used in schools already and can do an excellent job of protecting and monitoring the children whilst they are on the premises.

However, there is often the concern that schools are not doing enough and that more could be done to ensure that school children are kept safe whilst on the premises. The addition of additional [https://www.newgate.uk.com/gates/ security gates] can increase this security, help restrict unauthorised access and open up the school to prevent a feeling of claustrophobia which can often be a problem.

Alternatively, there are also other access control options, such as barriers, for car parks and other restricted areas that can help put a parent mind at ease and allow you to control the flow of traffic and people in and out of your establishment.

--[[User:Newgate|Newgate]] 15:02, 17 Jun 2020 (BST)

[[Category:Education]]

Safeguarding at school

2020-06-17T14:01:46Z

Newgate: Created page with "The COVID-19 has disrupted a variety of business sectors and industries, perhaps none more so than the [https://www.newgate.uk.com/sectors/schools-and-education/ education sector..."

Purchasing security gates and barriers

2020-06-16T16:09:31Z

Newgate:

Whilst the majority of businesses and companies ensure that their business premises remains secure through a variety of security measures, there will come a time when additional security is purchased or required.

Access control solutions such as security barriers and gates are some of the most common security measures available to businesses and, as such, it is essential to understand what you need to consider before making a purchase to ensure that it is a valuable addition to your business’ security system.

Key questions to ask before purchase

When choosing the right [https://www.newgate.uk.com/gates/ security gate] or barrier there are a few simple questions you can ask yourself or your team that will allow you to make a more informed decision about the specific gate or barrier you need.

The first, and perhaps most important question, is what level of security is required? The level of security you require will dictate the type of gate or barrier you need as well as what additional accessories you will benefit from.

This will depend on a number of factors such as your current security systems and the risk of criminal activity in your area so it is best to conduct some research and ask the local authorities if necessary.

The next question revolves around available space or what space is available to you?

The amount of space you have will determine your design specifications and whilst the majority of gate and barrier manufacturers can accommodate any size or shape, it is essential to have an understanding of the available space.

However, the available space may also dictate the type of gate or barrier you have. For example a swing gate or barrier will require additional space to open fully, whereas a rising arm barrier will need sufficient space to operate as intended.

What level of access do I need? Is the next question you should ask yourself.

The main purpose of security gates and barriers is to restrict unauthorised access, but authorised personnel will likely be using these systems regularly. The usage of a gate or barrier will dictate the type of gate or barrier you can install. If access is required regularly you will need a system that allows the gate or barrier to open quickly and efficiently or you may require additional systems such as a pedestrian gates, turnstile or keypad system.

The aesthetics of security gates and barriers is significantly more important now and many businesses use their access control systems as a part of their brand image or advertising. Therefore it is important that you ask yourself; what do you want your gate/barrier to look like?

Your gates and barriers will be a part of your property for years to come and having them in the right colour and blend with their surroundings can be essential from a brand image point of view but will also ensure that they don’t become an eyesore to the community you operate in.

Finally, the most obvious question is what is your budget? Your budget is perhaps the most important factor and will perhaps limit your options so it is essential to shop around to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money whilst still ensuring that your business premises remains safe and secure.

Ultimately each business will have their own specific needs for their security gates and barriers and these questions are only the beginning of the considerations you need to make as you will also have to account for maintenance and support and any staffing measures you may need to take.

--[[User:Newgate|Newgate]] 17:09, 16 Jun 2020 (BST)

[[Category:Education]]

Purchasing security gates and barriers

2020-06-16T16:08:24Z

Newgate: Created page with "Whilst the majority of businesses and companies ensure that their business premises remains secure through a variety of security measures, there will come a time when additional ..."

Keeping premises safe during extreme times

2020-05-20T11:42:47Z

Newgate: Created page with "During these times of great risk and uncertainty many businesses have opted or been forced to close, or work from a remote location, due to a concern for the health and wellbeing..."

During these times of great risk and uncertainty many businesses have opted or been forced to close, or work from a remote location, due to a concern for the health and wellbeing of staff and customers as well as to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.

This, however, has caused multiple problems for business owners and stakeholders who may now have to worry about the security risks of having an unoccupied business premises. This raises the question; how can you keep your commercial premises safe during the COVID-19 pandemic?

== Key considerations to keep your business protected ==

It is important to understand the potential weak points in your business security before you take any additional action to protect your commercial premises from any potential risks such as crime or vandalism.

It is therefore recommended that, if possible, you make thorough checks to your current security and identify vulnerable areas. This may include aspects such as:

* Checking perimeter security
* Ensuring all alarms are active and functional
* Checking locks on doors and windows

It is important to remember that the level of security you require will depend not only on the current measures you are taking but also the business itself including the industry you operate in, the size of your business and whether there are valuable items that remain in the premises whilst you are unable to access it.

Whilst checking the security of your business it is also beneficial to ensure that any electrical items are unplugged and that all waste is disposed of correctly. This helps reduce the risk and spread of fire whilst your business is unoccupied.

== How do I keep my business premises safe? ==

There are number of security measures available for all businesses that will help ensure that your premises remains protected during these uncertain times.

The most obvious form of security is the traditional alarm system. Whilst many businesses will have these in place already they can be invaluable and not only alert you to a threat to your business, but also act as a visual deterrent to would be criminals and this is often sufficient for smaller businesses.

CCTV is the more sophisticated choice for most businesses and has the additional benefit of being monitored remotely. This allows you to ensure that your premise is safe by making regular checks throughout the day which can help provide peace of mind during this time of uncertainty.

Whilst these measures can be effective and are often enough to deter unauthorised visitors many businesses, especially those who own larger amounts of land, can benefit from access control security. Security elements such as [https://www.newgate.uk.com/gates/ security gates] and [https://www.newgate.uk.com/barriers/ barriers] act a physical barrier to your business and provide the strongest visual deterrent to a criminal.

It is recommended that most businesses have some form of access control security and perhaps a combination of multiple security systems to ensure that their business remains 100% secure during the COVID-19 pandemic.

== Returning to work ==

As you are probably already aware, people were asked to return to work, if they could not work from home as of the 13th of May 2020. This left a huge slice of the nation unprepared and perhaps unwilling to return to work without feeling confident their workplace had sufficient health and safety measures in place.

If you’re a business owner who has recently experienced the sudden rush of getting back into the swing of things without the necessary preparations, taking some time out of your busy working schedule to implement better security efforts can be beneficial for everyone.

By selecting security options that can help to reduce the risk of having to manually operate or touch any functions can continue the prevention of germs, bacteria and of course, Coronavirus. Obviously anyone returning to work with the illness or even symptoms of should stay at home but there can never be enough ‘just in case’ attitude at the moment.

--[[User:Newgate|Newgate]] 12:42, 20 May 2020 (BST)

[[Category:Health_and_safety_/_CDM]]

Security gates and access-control solutions for business premises

2019-12-16T11:09:47Z

Newgate:

The fewer people can access an area, the fewer people can create disruption or damage within that area. If that seems like a harsh statement then remember that disruption and damage can be caused by accident or trickery and that everyone can make a mistake.

It is therefore very wise to take the precaution of investing in robust [https://www.newgate.uk.com/gates/ security gates] and access-control solutions for your business premises.

Here are some specific ways they can help you safeguard your business and the livelihood it brings you.

=== Security gates effectively protect your perimeter ===

Securing your perimeter is the number one rule in security (both physical and digital) and it holds that position for a very good reason. People can only hurt you if they can get access to you. If you can hold them off at the perimeter then they can look but they can’t touch.

Premises which are directly accessible from public walkways are at a distinct disadvantage here, although they can still use security doors and blinds.

Premises with a bit of ground between them and the general public can use this space to their advantage by putting up solid barriers, with limited points of entry, ideally in the form of security gates which can be monitored and operated remotely.

This not only makes life easier for staff, but also means that they can potentially be opened and/or closed much more quickly if need be.

=== Effective access-management is essential for GDPR compliance ===

One of the most basic and fundamental principles of GDPR is the concept of “privacy by design”.

Essentially this means that the need for privacy (and hence data security) should be built into everything an organization does and that certainly includes the level of physical security applied to their business premises as good digital security rests on good physical security.

For the sake of completeness, even if you are a totally cloud-based business, you still need effective physical security to stop an intruder from gaining access to your cloud platform through breaching your on-site equipment and uncovering the necessary passwords.

It’s also worth noting that most businesses are probably going to have data which falls outside of the scope of GDPR (which only applies to personal data) but which they still want (or need) to protect. Again, this requires effective physical security.

=== Effective access controls keep staff and the public safe ===

There are all kinds of ways in which effective access controls promote the safety and well-being of both your staff and the public.

In this context, the term “the public”, applies to anyone on your premises who is not directly employed by you, so even if you don’t have access to the general public you may still need to think about the safety of people like facilities workers and delivery agents.

In addition to preventing malicious actors from finding their way into sensitive areas, effective access controls also stop people from wandering accidentally into areas where they might be at risk, for example, children deciding to explore commercial kitchens.

--[[User:Newgate|Newgate]] 11:09, 16 Dec 2019 (BST)

[[Category:Organisations]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]]

Security gates and access-control solutions for business premises

2019-12-16T11:09:21Z

Newgate: Created page with "The fewer people can access an area, the fewer people can create disruption or damage within that area. If that seems like a harsh statement then remember that disruption and dam..."

The fewer people can access an area, the fewer people can create disruption or damage within that area. If that seems like a harsh statement then remember that disruption and damage can be caused by accident or trickery and that everyone can make a mistake.

It is therefore very wise to take the precaution of investing in robust [https://www.newgate.uk.com/gates/ security gates] and access-control solutions for your business premises.

Here are some specific ways they can help you safeguard your business and the livelihood it brings you.

=== Security gates effectively protect your perimeter ===

Securing your perimeter is the number one rule in security (both physical and digital) and it holds that position for a very good reason. People can only hurt you if they can get access to you. If you can hold them off at the perimeter then they can look but they can’t touch.

Premises which are directly accessible from public walkways are at a distinct disadvantage here, although they can still use security doors and blinds.

Premises with a bit of ground between them and the general public can use this space to their advantage by putting up solid barriers, with limited points of entry, ideally in the form of security gates which can be monitored and operated remotely.

This not only makes life easier for staff, but also means that they can potentially be opened and/or closed much more quickly if need be.

=== Effective access-management is essential for GDPR compliance ===

One of the most basic and fundamental principles of GDPR is the concept of “privacy by design”.

Essentially this means that the need for privacy (and hence data security) should be built into everything an organization does and that certainly includes the level of physical security applied to their business premises as good digital security rests on good physical security.

For the sake of completeness, even if you are a totally cloud-based business, you still need effective physical security to stop an intruder from gaining access to your cloud platform through breaching your on-site equipment and uncovering the necessary passwords.

It’s also worth noting that most businesses are probably going to have data which falls outside of the scope of GDPR (which only applies to personal data) but which they still want (or need) to protect. Again, this requires effective physical security.

=== Effective access controls keep staff and the public safe ===

There are all kinds of ways in which effective access controls promote the safety and well-being of both your staff and the public.

In this context, the term “the public”, applies to anyone on your premises who is not directly employed by you, so even if you don’t have access to the general public you may still need to think about the safety of people like facilities workers and delivery agents.

In addition to preventing malicious actors from finding their way into sensitive areas, effective access controls also stop people from wandering accidentally into areas where they might be at risk, for example, children deciding to explore commercial kitchens.

[[Category:Organisations]] [[Category:Cost_/_business_planning]] [[Category:Design]]