THE IMPORTANCE OF EXTERNAL AND INTERNAL ENTRANCE CONTROL EQUIPMENT AT WAREHOUSES AND DEPOTS

In modern logistics, public safety, and industrial operations, depots function as critical infrastructure. With the growing demand for enhanced security, operational efficiency, and safety, the role of entrance control equipment—both external and internal—has become increasingly vital. This white paper explores the importance of deploying comprehensive entrance control solutions, focusing on how they enhance security, manage traffic flow, ensure regulatory compliance, and protect assets.

Warehouse and depots serve as central nodes for the movement, storage, and dispatch of goods, people, or vehicles. These facilities are often high-risk environments, vulnerable to unauthorised
access, theft, and operational inefficiencies. Entrance control equipment addresses these risks by regulating who or what enters and exits, when, and under what conditions.

1. Understanding entrance control equipment

• External entrance control equipment

Effective external entrance control systems are essential for protecting the perimeter of a depot and ensuring that only authorised vehicles and individuals can enter. These systems form the first line of defence and play a critical role in deterrence, delay, and detection.

• Barriers and bollards

Designed to restrict vehicular access, barriers and bollards provide both a physical and psychological deterrent to unauthorised vehicles. They can be fixed or retractable and are often used at entry points, loading zones, or critical infrastructure areas.

• Security gates and turnstiles

These control pedestrian access, ensuring that only individuals with the appropriate permission can enter. Turnstiles can be integrated with badge readers, biometric scanners, or mobile credentials, and are particularly effective in preventing tailgating.

• CCTV and ANPR integration

Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) combined with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) provides comprehensive real-time monitoring and historical record-keeping. These systems support both active surveillance and forensic investigations in the event of a security breach.

• Visitor management systems

These systems allow depots to manage external visitors, delivery personnel, and contractors
through pre-registration, identification verification, and badge issuance. They improve accountability and help meet regulatory compliance requirements.

2. Internal entrance control equipment

Internal entrance control equipment plays a critical role in securing sensitive zones within warehouse and depot environments. These systems are designed to manage personnel movement, safeguard high-value assets, and ensure compliance with internal policies and
external regulations. By implementing layered internal controls, organisations can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access, theft, and safety breaches.

• Entrance Lanes

Internal entrance lanes are structured access points within warehouse or depot facilities including the building reception area, that facilitate the organised movement of vehicles and personnel beyond the perimeter fence or gate. These lanes play a vital role in maintaining order, security, and safety within the depot and are often integrated with advanced access control technologies.

3. Key functions

• Controlled vehicle movement

Internal lanes provide a secure, monitored pathway for persons entering sensitive operational zones such as maintenance bays, loading docks, or fuel storage areas.
This helps minimise risks associated with unauthorised movement or accidental access to restricted areas.

• Sequential security screening

Many warehouse and depots use internal entrance lanes to conduct second-layer checks after initial gate screening. These are generally found within the building itself usually within the reception area.

• Access card readers and Biometric scanners

Access control systems use identity verification technologies such as access cards, PIN codes, and biometric scanners (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition) to restrict entry to secure areas. These tools ensure that only authorised individuals can access critical zones such as server rooms, control centres, or hazardous material storage areas.

• Mantraps and Airlocks

Mantraps and airlocks are extremely secure entry vestibules that allow only one person at a time to pass through. These systems require users to be authenticated in a controlled space before entry is granted to the next zone, effectively preventing tailgating, piggybacking, and other unauthorised entry tactics in high-security areas.

• Zone-based access controls

Facilities are divided into access-controlled zones, with each zone assigned specific clearance requirements. Staff members receive permissions based on their roles and responsibilities, ensuring that individuals can only access areas necessary for their work. This minimises the risk of internal threats and promotes operational efficiency.

• Time tracking systems

These systems integrate with access control points to record the time and duration of personnel presence in specific areas. In addition to supporting attendance and workforce management, time tracking data is valuable for audit trails, incident investigations, and compliance with labour and safety regulations.

4. Strategic Importance: Enhancing security

Entrance control equipment provides the first line of defence against theft, vandalism, terrorism, and espionage. These systems deter intrusions and enable rapid response through integrated alarms and surveillance.

• Operational efficiency

Automated access systems reduce bottlenecks, speed up the entry/exit process for authorised vehicles and personnel, and minimise human error.

• Safety and compliance

Proper control of internal areas supports compliance with health and safety regulations. For example, hazardous material zones require restricted access for trained personnel only.

• Asset and Data protection

Preventing unauthorised access helps protect valuable inventory, vehicles, and sensitive data—especially in sectors like defence, pharmaceuticals, and critical infrastructure.

• Integration with modern technologies

Modern depots increasingly integrate entrance control systems with:

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms
Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Artificial Intelligence for behaviour prediction and anomaly detection
Internet of Things (IoT) sensors for real-time environment monitoring

• Best practices

Conduct regular risk assessments.
Use layered security combining external and internal controls.
Ensure redundancy and fail-safe modes (e.g., in case of power failure).
Train staff on procedures and emergency protocols.
Periodically review and update access permissions.

5. Conclusion

External and internal entrance control equipment is no longer a safety and security luxury but a necessity for warehouse and depots aiming to maintain high standards of security, efficiency, and compliance. A thoughtful, well-integrated approach not only protects physical and digital assets but also enhances the overall effectiveness of the buildings operations.

For further information or to get a quote please visit www.automatic-systems.com Or call us on 01604 654210 – Email sales.uk@automatic-systems.com