News Articles

An answer to the ban on clamping
August 2010

The Government's newly announced ban on clamping and towing on private land is expected to come into force early next year.

Companies that currently employ clampers, or don't use them but suffer with unauthorised parking, will become even more vulnerable to valuable parking spaces being occupied by unauthorised vehicles. It is likely to be even more prevalent in areas within walking distance of a station used by commuters.

The answer to what is destined to become a growing problem as selfish drivers realise that organisations are limited in the actions they can take to stop rogue parking without expending a great deal of time and money, is the installation of automatic gates, or rising barriers for commercial premises.

Not only will these precautions stop that driver prepared to park anywhere off-road that is convenient and free, it also ensures authorised vehicles can be parked in a safe and secure environment.

Automatic gates come in a wide range of sizes and styles, and start at prices that won't break the bank, even in these difficult times. They are suitable for installation in almost every location where unauthorised parking might be a problem including offices, industrial units, schools, public house and hotels as well as church and community halls.

The important thing to remember when considering access automation is to ensure that all necessary safety devices are fitted to comply with relevant legislation.

If you would like to know more about installing gates or barriers contact me, Joe Baker, at Atlas.

Gate deaths being investigated
July 2010

In just two weeks there have been two deaths caused by automatic gates and in a statement earlier this week (July 5) a spokesperson for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) said: "HSE has been assisting the police in South Wales following the death of a child in an incident involving an electric gate in Bridgend on Saturday. Inspectors have already been on site to start an investigation and will meet again today with South Wales police. It is too early to comment on what happened at this stage.

"HSE is also assisting police in Greater Manchester (GMP) following the death of Semelia Campbell in Moss Side last week. This is a separate incident and HSE inspectors and specialist inspectors with expertise in mechanical engineering have been on site to investigate.

"In Manchester, HSE and GMP have required that developments in the vicinity of the Maine Road estate, which have gates similar to those being investigated following the death of Semelia Campbell, are locked in an open position until inspectors can fully examine them and ensure there is no ongoing risk.

"HSE issued a safety alert to gate manufacturers and installers in February [ read here ] reminding them of their safety responsibilities when designing, constructing and installing electrically powered gates, to minimise the risk of an incident happening.

"Should anyone have any concerns about electric gates on their development, they should speak to their management company or their installer, who have a duty to ensure the gates will stop safely should they be obstructed (also known as force limitation protection). They must ensure that the force limitation protection and other anti-crushing, shearing and trapping safety protection devices are correctly set and maintained."

Atlas managing director Joe Baker said: "If anyone is worried about the safety of their automatic gate they should call Atlas on 01753 69166 and we will investigate".

For 30 years Slough-based Atlas have been at the forefront by campaigning, promoting and training to gain better safety for automatic gate and barrier installations.

New guide to access control for healthcare industry
June 2010

The British Security Industry Association (BSIA) has published a new guide to aid the healthcare sector in the use of access control systems.

The guide is aimed at hospitals and residential care homes and explains how access control technology can better protect these sites, which are increasingly being targeted by criminals.

Mike Sussman, Chairman of the BSIA's Access Control Section, comments: "Healthcare premises tend to be widespread and have large transient populations making it all the more easier for people to access the site. With high value items stored on-site such as computers and medical equipment, not to mention the personal possessions of staff and patients, it is no surprise that hospitals and residential care homes are being targeted."

"Having access control technology in place will not only deter criminals but can physically prevent them from entering the site. Access control systems offer a versatile and cost-effective way to regulate entry to premises. The guide covers the principles and application of access control, as well as providing practical examples of its successful use in the healthcare sector."

The BSIA guide provides information on how access control can reduce risks that the healthcare sector faces, the added benefits the systems can bring, case studies and any legislation that should be considered.

Further information from the BSIA at www.bsia.co.uk or Tel: 0845 389 3889.

Atlas alarm over conflicting regulations
May 2010

In a Business News article Atlas Group managing director Joe Baker has sounded the alarm over "a bewildering array of conflicting regulations and lack of policing" of the automatic security gate installation industry.

The article is the first salvo in a series of measures planned by Mr. Baker to bring home to the Prime Minister and Members of Parliament and, if necessary Brussels, that the "incomprehensible, unworkable and unenforceable" regulations are putting lives at risk.

Read the full article (688k PDF File).

Automated Gates - an in (and out) story
May 2010

Having automatic swing gates fitted to a properties driveway or walkway continues to be a popular option for many people, despite the downturn in the economy.

Joe Baker, Atlas Group managing director says his company is still finding that there are people who consider an automated gate is a 'must have', particularly if they have moved from a property with one to a property that does not have one.

Property occupiers who have fitted a system are well aware of the many advantages of having an automated gate activated by remote control or other operating system.

• Security against theft is enhanced which may help to reduce insurance premiums.
• Children and pets can be kept in, or out, as required.
• Automatic gates are extremely convenient, particularly if heavy or awkward loads are being carried.
• An automatic gate installation is also prestigious, adding enormous appeal to visitors and, very importantly, potential purchasers.
• And all these advantages come at a cost that can be easily justified.
• A chat with any estate agent will confirm that the enhancement of a property's value can be many times the cost of an installation.

Joe Baker said his company is also finding installations are not confined to very expensive properties.

"With the trend to improve a property rather than going down the expensive and sometimes risky route of moving, the automated gate along with an extension, new bathroom or designer garden, becomes a serious consideration for many homeowners".

Perivale barriers replaced
April 2010

Vehicle access security at Perivale Business Park in West London is controlled with a barrier system from the Atlas Group's extensive range.

An integral part of the Park's increasingly important security operation, the barriers were installed by Atlas under a contract awarded by Clasby Construction, who were also responsible for constructing a replacement access control security building alongside the barriers.

Consisting of separate 'in' and 'out' rising arm barriers each fitted with a stop sign and lights, the 'in' barrier is controlled from the new security building by an intercom system. The 'out' barrier is controlled by an underground loop.

Atlas managing director Joe Baker said: "Our experience is that controlling vehicle access to multi-occupier sites and individual buildings is of growing importance for both security and safety reasons."

Well-proven for all-weather, continuous use operation, rising arm barriers are just part of a wide range of access automation and associated control equipment available from the Slough-based Atlas Group.

BSIA highlights benefits of access control
February 2010

Following the British Security Industry Association's recent research into crime in the recession, the Association's access control section is highlighting the benefits that users can gain from access control technology. The research revealed that security remains a key investment for UK plc, despite the difficult economic climate, with 92 per cent of respondents retaining the same level of investment. In a summary report of the research findings, access control was featured as a popular security measure among the respondents.

BSIA access control section chairman, Mike Sussman, stated, "The research report makes for interesting reading and it is worth noting that 14 per cent of respondents are looking to invest in access control as a security measure in the near future".

There are many benefits of using an access control system. One of the main advantages is the provision of increased point of entry security to commercial and industrial sites and buildings, as well as residential premises, both single and multi-occupancy.

The Atlas Group is well placed to utilise the latest access control technology to the benefit of its customers.

Atlas has Elecsa Part P services to draw on
January 2010

Elecsa has announced that over 6,000 approved contractors have taken up its Part P scheme, a figure that, despite the recession, is increasing steadily.

As a member, Atlas has access to all the services Elecsa provide including technical advice and the provision of customer warranties.

Atlas managing director Joe Baker said it was essential that customers should feel that a company installing access control, whether a simple gate or a sophisticated electronic system, should have all the right credentials to ensure a high level of safety.

"Having the strength of Elecsa to draw on means that all our customers can be assured their access control system has been installed to the highest electrical specification."

Part P is incorporated in the Building Regulations and its requirement is that: 'Reasonable provision shall be made in the design and installation of electrical installations in order to protect persons operating, maintaining or altering the installations from fire or injury'. In short, electrical installations must be safe!

London Tube demands Atlas' expertise
Work commeced July 2009

Last month, against fierce competition from other bidders, we won the gate automation contract for the Balfour Beaty-Carrillion joint venture East London Tube Extension project. Our recommendations which varied from the laid down specification, were accepted by the client TfL as preferable. The gates are now being manufactured, ready for installation in August. They will secure the tube switchgear against sabotage, misuse and vandalism.

Our achievement shows that we are recognised as a professional company that is competent to undertake public works contracts at the highest level. This should be the first of many. We will be using our success to win similar contracts from other main contractors.

The project involves upgrading the entire existing tube network. Passengers will witness the biggest transformation in the Tube's history. TfL are planning to refurbish the entire underground rail network, from tracks to trains and signals to stations. The project works include:

• More pleasant stations - most stations will get a facelift by 2012, restoring and protecting the heritage of old stations while completely modernising others (such as King's Cross St. Pancras).
• Better access from street to train as lifts are installed, wider ticket gates and platform changes implemented.
• Enhanced security.
• Improved customer information.

It's going to take time to bring about the world-class network we've all been waiting for - about 10 years in fact - and there will be some disruption as the improvements are carried out.

Helping prepare for London's Olympics
Work commeced June 2009

London's Transport cops were delighted to move into their new home in Islington after Atlas installed a new autogate system for them. The gates are an impressive six metres wide by four metres high.

A previous installation company had been stumped by the scale of the job and threw in the towel, but undeterred Atlas made sure the contract got completed on budget and on time. Our engineer, Paul, skilfully revised the specification to ensure the finished installation was effective and safe.

Atlas Contract Manager, Peter McDonnell, got called in when additional repairs to folding shutter doors turned out to be a much bigger job than anyone had thought. He valued it, priced it and got the order. Then, he and our engineer Keith worked all day (and part of the night!) adjusting and re-hanging the doors to ensure that they are able to maintain the level of security and reliability that the law demands.

A lot hangs (forgive the pun) on our expertise. 7 million Britons watched the Beijing Olympics on TV and organisers hope for an attendance of several times that number in London. Most of these visitors will travel by public transport giving the London Transport Police their biggest logistical headache since the last war.

A budget of £9.3 billion has been set aside for the 2012 games and we are determined that Atlas will continue to pick up it's fair share of that investment.