Planning a Speed Gate Installation? Here's Everything You Need to Consider Before Ordering
Installing speed gates is about far more than choosing an attractive entrance control system. A successful installation begins long before the equipment arrives on site. Taking accurate site measurements, selecting compatible access control equipment, and understanding the operational requirements of the building are all essential to delivering a reliable, secure, and compliant installation.
At Evolve Security Products, we work closely with security installers, system integrators, consultants and contractors across the UK, providing technical support from the initial enquiry through to commissioning. This guide highlights the key considerations before specifying or ordering a speed gate system.
1. Accurate Site Measurements Are Essential
One of the most common causes of delays is incorrect site measurements. Before selecting a speed gate, carry out a detailed site survey and record the following:
- Overall opening width
- Wall-to-wall or skirting-to-skirting dimensions
- Finished floor levels
- Ceiling height (if installing overhead sensors or barriers)
- Position of existing doors and escape routes
- Power supply location
- Data cable routes
- Fire alarm interface location
- Available space behind and beside each cabinet for maintenance access
Providing these measurements at the quotation stage allows our team to recommend the most suitable cabinet size, lane widths and configuration while reducing the risk of costly design changes later in the project.
Tip: Photographs of the entrance area and an existing floor plan can significantly speed up the quotation and design process.
2. Selecting the Correct Lane Width
Different environments require different lane widths depending on pedestrian traffic and accessibility requirements.
Typical options include:
- 600 mm – Standard pedestrian access
- 900 mm – Wheelchair users, deliveries and wider access requirements
- 1120 mm – Enhanced accessibility or high-volume pedestrian traffic
For most commercial buildings, we recommend including at least one wider DDA-compliant lane to improve accessibility and user experience.
3. Choosing the Right Speed Gate
Every project is different.
For example:
PG127
- Compact footprint
- Ideal for offices, schools and commercial buildings
- Excellent balance of security and value
PG300
- Premium architectural appearance
- Suitable for prestigious receptions and corporate headquarters
- Advanced infrared detection and high throughput
Selecting the right model depends on security requirements, aesthetics, pedestrian volume and available installation space.
4. Access Control Integration
Modern speed gates should integrate seamlessly with your existing security systems.
Evolve products support integration with a wide range of technologies, including:
- RFID card readers
- MIFARE and DESFire credentials
- QR code readers
- Barcode scanners
- Facial recognition terminals
- Fingerprint readers
- Mobile credentials
- Visitor management systems
- Intercom systems
- Time and attendance software
- Building Management Systems (BMS)
Our controllers also support common communication protocols, making integration straightforward for installers working with most leading access control manufacturers.
Because Evolve uses an open protocol approach, customers are free to choose the access control solution that best suits their project rather than being restricted to a single manufacturer.
5. Consider the User Experience
A speed gate should provide security without slowing people down.
Ask yourself:
- How many users will pass through each day?
- Will visitors require temporary access?
- Are deliveries frequent?
- Do wheelchair users regularly access the building?
- Is there a reception desk nearby?
Understanding pedestrian flow helps determine the correct lane configuration and gate operating mode.
6. Safety and Compliance
Safety should always be considered during the design stage.
Modern speed gates incorporate multiple infrared sensors to detect users throughout the lane, helping prevent accidental contact while reducing false alarms.
Installers should also consider:
- Emergency escape requirements
- Fire alarm integration
- Automatic fail-safe opening
- Accessibility requirements
- Relevant British Standards
- Risk assessments
- Maintenance access
Proper planning ensures the installation is both safe and compliant.
7. Cabling and Infrastructure
Before installation, confirm:
- 230V power supplies are available
- Data cables are installed
- Reader positions are confirmed
- Network requirements are understood
- Floor construction allows secure fixing
- Conduits are correctly positioned
Planning these details early avoids unnecessary delays once equipment arrives on site.
8. Factory Support Makes Installation Easier
At Evolve Security Products, we don't simply ship equipment—we support installers throughout the entire project.
We offer:
- Technical advice before ordering
- CAD drawings and layout assistance
- Product configuration guidance
- Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT)
- Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)
- Commissioning support
- UK technical assistance
- Training for installers and engineers
Our aim is to make every installation as straightforward and successful as possible.
9. British Standards and Compliance
When specifying and installing speed gates, it's important to consider the relevant British Standards and guidance documents. Compliance not only helps create a safer entrance but also gives building owners confidence that the system has been designed and installed in accordance with recognised industry best practices.
The following standards are commonly considered during the specification and installation process:
BS EN 17352:2022 – Powered Pedestrian Control Equipment
This is the primary European and British Standard for powered pedestrian control equipment, including speed gates, optical turnstiles and automated entrance control systems. It covers the design, performance and safety requirements for pedestrian control equipment used in public and commercial environments.
BS 7036-0:2014 – Safety of Powered Doors
Although primarily written for powered doors, BS 7036-0 provides valuable guidance on safe installation, risk assessment, maintenance and ongoing inspection of automated entrance systems. Many of its principles are considered good practice when designing pedestrian entrance control solutions.
BS EN 16005:2012 – Power Operated Pedestrian Doorsets
Where speed gates are installed alongside automatic doors, revolving doors or integrated entrance systems, BS EN 16005 should also be considered to ensure the complete entrance operates safely and efficiently.
BS 8300-2:2018 – Design of an Accessible and Inclusive Built Environment
Accessibility is a key consideration for any entrance control installation. BS 8300-2 provides recommendations to ensure entrances are inclusive for wheelchair users, people with reduced mobility and other building occupants. Wider access lanes, intuitive operation and suitable clearances should all be considered during the design stage.
Approved Document M (Building Regulations)
Approved Document M provides guidance on access to and use of buildings. During the planning stage, installers should ensure that at least one accessible route through the entrance control system is available where required, with suitable lane widths and clear approaches.
Why Compliance Matters
By considering these standards during the planning and design phase, installers can:
- Improve pedestrian safety.
- Reduce project risks.
- Simplify the approval process.
- Deliver a more accessible entrance.
- Help ensure long-term reliability.
- Demonstrate compliance with recognised industry best practice.
At Evolve Security Products, we support installers and consultants by providing technical drawings, product specifications, risk assessment guidance and expert advice to help specify the correct entrance control solution for every project.
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