How to secure your business site while staff are on summer leave

The biggest weakness points to address first

• Manual gates, padlocks or fencing with no active barrier
• Unsecured vehicle routes and side entrances
• Camera blind spots or malfunctioning security equipment
• Faulty keypads, intercoms or lighting systems
• Reliance on manual processes that may be forgotten before leave

The perimeter is the primary line of defence. For most sites, that means focusing on vehicle access. Manual gates, chain-link fencing and padlocked entrances can all leave your site somewhat exposed if they’re not backed by automated control. A gate that can be opened physically can leave the site site particularly vulnerable. And where there’s no automated barrier in place, access can be gained quickly through physical force or simple tools. Public roads, nearby industrial estates or open surroundings can further increase the risk, especially where movement is common and vehicles can stop without raising attention. (It all goes some way to illustrating more reasons why electric gate kits are so useful for maintaining security.)

Other weaknesses might include camera blind spots, broken access control devices and failed lighting systems, all of which can create gaps that reduce visibility over movement in and out of the site. A camera knocked out of alignment or a keypad that fails to register properly might remain faulty for days while staff are away. That delay can allow theft or trespassing to go untracked. Manual systems also increase the chance of human error. If a gate is left open on the last working day before the summer break, there may be no one around to close it until the site reopens. Any route that remains unsecured increases the overall exposure.

4 vitally important steps to take

• Install automated electric gates to secure vehicle entry
• Audit and restrict access credentials
• Inspect and test all surveillance and lighting systems
• Confirm backup systems and alert mechanisms are working

Start with securing vehicle entrances. Automated electric gates in particular can prove to be a reliable barrier, as they can’t be opened without approval. Swing and sliding gate systems both provide a physical stop, controlled through fobs, keypads, ANPR cameras or remote signals. Automation removes the risk of gates being left open, and entry can be centrally logged for review. Physical barriers backed by electronic control give a clear signal that access is restricted.

Next, it’s best to reinforce entry permissions. Any access point tied to fobs, codes or registration plates need to be reviewed and updated before staff leave. Make sure to remove expired credentials, check all devices, and test backup methods such as manual release procedures. Ensure all authorised users are listed and that alerts are set up for access attempts outside working hours.

Then, you can carry out a full visual audit. Check that lighting covers all key points, that no cameras are blocked or disabled, and that all intercoms or visual entry units are functional. Fourth, confirm that all supporting systems – power supplies, notifications, alerts and logs – are in working order with no faults pending. It’s one thing to suffer a break-in because certain security measures weren’t present. It’s quite another to have them present, but not properly working!

The vital role that access control plays in maintaining security

In short, access control can serve as a reliable replacement to human presence when the site is quiet. When staff are on leave, the ability to restrict movement at the perimeter becomes the most important form of protection. Gates integrated with access control systems can operate around the clock, without requiring anyone to be physically present. Entry is only granted to authorised vehicles or individuals through confirmed input – whether that’s a fob, an access code or a registered number plate. That effectively reduces exposure to theft and trespassing by preventing unauthorised vehicles or foot traffic from reaching operational areas.

Plus, if you’re able to link your access control systems to monitoring platforms, these can provide live updates and historical logs. These tools allow remote review of attempted entries, successful gate activations and unauthorised attempts. Alerts can flag unusual activity so you can take action quickly. Even when staff are off-site, it’s still possible to control movement, monitor systems, and respond to alerts in real time. Automated gates paired with access control systems ensure that your site remains secure without relying on constant human oversight.

And if you’re thinking about upgrading your own security, that’s exactly where we can help here at Gate Auto. If you’re looking for the ideal electric gate kit for your industrial business premises or want to enhance your current setup with additional features like intercoms or remote access, get in touch with our friendly team today on 01282 677 300 – we’re always happy to help.

Or you could visit our Nelson showroom, where you’ll be able to take a look at the latest in gate automation technology in person, all complemented by more than 30 years of industry expertise from our team!