The speedgates from Integrated Design Ltd operate with a card swipe system and had to be integrated with other door entry control systems throughout the building to ensure user satisfaction.
Designers of the system needed to produce entry gates for both ambulant and disabled visitors whilst maintaining the aesthetics of the building’s main entrance. As a result, a Disability Discrimination Act-compliant double width lane was used in the central position as a design feature.
Integrated Design recommended the system for the London site as it features a glass ‘door-like’ barrier which should allow new users quick access into the building. A more secure higher version of the barrier was also chosen by the company in an attempt to prevent vaulting over the pedestals.
The Fastlane Glassgate combines IR detection sensors for tailgate detection and glass barriers to control access. Safety beams monitor the area near the barrier so that moving parts slow if an object is detected in their path.
Richard Ashby, Managing Director of Portman Square Properties Ltd, who own the office building, was pleased with the installation. He said, “The Fastlane Glassgate entry barriers are an important part of the security regime installed in our office building at 35 Portman Square, London, W1, to prevent unauthorised entry without imposing on the design of our main reception.”
The Fastlane Glassgate system is also said to be suitable for use with a fire alarm system, so that in an emergency the barriers automatically open in the exit direction. Designers say that in the the event of a power failure, the barriers can be gently pushed out of the way.