Picture a fortress: impenetrable walls, heavy iron gates, and guards at every turn. Now imagine a welcoming home: open doors, clear pathways, and features designed for ease of use. At first glance, these images seem fundamentally at odds. Yet, in today’s built environment, we’re increasingly asked to marry these concepts, creating spaces that are both secure and accessible to all.
This challenge isn’t merely an architectural puzzle; it’s a societal imperative. As our understanding of inclusivity evolves and legal frameworks like the Equality Act 2010 set new standards, the need for innovative solutions that balance security and accessibility has never been more pressing.
The Equality Act 2010 places a legal obligation on businesses and organisations to ensure their premises are accessible to people with disabilities. This includes making reasonable adjustments to remove barriers that would place disabled people at a substantial disadvantage compared to non-disabled people.
In security, this means considering how security measures might impact individuals with various disabilities. For instance:
Understanding these requirements is crucial when designing and implementing security solutions. It’s not just about complying with the law; it’s about creating inclusive environments that work for everyone.
Balancing robust security measures with accessibility can present significant challenges. Traditional security features often create barriers – both literal and figurative – that can exclude people with disabilities. These include high counters at reception desks that can be inaccessible for wheelchair users, security doors with complex locking mechanisms that may be difficult for people with limited dexterity, or intercom systems without visual components that can exclude deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals.
At the same time, features designed to improve accessibility can sometimes be perceived as potential security vulnerabilities. Automatic doors, for instance, while excellent for accessibility, need careful integration with access control systems to maintain security.
The key is to find integrated solutions that enhance both security and accessibility simultaneously.
When addressing the dual requirements of security and accessibility, industry leaders must consider several fundamental principles:
Inclusive design: Effective solutions consider the needs of all users from the outset, rather than treating accessibility as an afterthought. This approach ensures that security measures are inherently usable by people with a wide range of abilities.
Customisation: Every site has unique requirements based on its purpose, layout, and user base. Tailoring security solutions to these specific needs is crucial for achieving both optimal security and accessibility.
Integration: The most successful accessible security measures are designed to work seamlessly with existing systems and structures. This integration minimises disruption and ensures a cohesive user experience.
Innovation: The field of accessible security is constantly evolving. Staying abreast of new technologies and approaches is essential for simultaneously improving both security and accessibility.
Compliance: Solutions must meet the requirements of relevant legislation, such as the Equality Act 2010 in the UK, while still providing robust security.
By adhering to these principles, security professionals can create environments that are both secure and accessible. This balanced approach ensures legal compliance and creates spaces that are truly inclusive and functional for all users.
The challenge lies in applying these principles practically. It requires a deep understanding of both security risks and the diverse needs of users with different abilities. Success often comes from collaboration between security experts, accessibility specialists, and the users themselves.
Let’s look at some real-world examples that Safetell has delivered for clients.
Northern Bank: Automated access control
For Northern Bank’s City of Leeds head office, we were tasked with improving access while maintaining high-security standards. The challenge was integrating their existing access control solution with an enhanced swing door automation system that accommodated wheelchairs and mobility devices.
Our solution involved manufacturing bespoke hardware and designing an electronic interface that eliminated conflicts with the existing electronic locking system. We ensured that no additional cabling was required, minimising building structure disruption.
The result was a system that provided easy access for all staff and visitors, including those using wheelchairs, while maintaining the bank’s high-security standards. The success of this installation led the bank to consider 10 additional similar systems across their properties.
RNIB HQ: Secure access for the visually impaired
For the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB), we needed to create a secure access solution that would be easily usable by individuals with visual impairments. We installed two Round Cab Speed Gates, integrating them with the building’s access control system.
To ensure that individuals with low vision could easily identify the entrance, we added yellow highlighting to the black gates, providing high colour contrast. This solution enhanced the security of the RNIB headquarters and made the entrance more accessible for staff and visitors with visual impairments.
Metropolitan Police: Flexible security measures
For a large Metropolitan Police branch in West London, we created a bespoke version of our moving security shield, CounterShield. We also installed an accessible interview room counter and security doors equipped with door automation and manual attack-resistant glazing.
This flexible solution allows staff to adjust the level of security as needed, creating a more open and accessible police environment without compromising safety. The dedicated interview room, constructed using CounterShield and Swing Door Automation, allows users to enter with the push of a button, while the interviewer can control the security level inside.
When implementing accessible security solutions, we always consider the following best practices:
Creating spaces that are both secure and accessible is not just a legal requirement; it’s an essential aspect of building inclusive environments that work for everyone. At Safetell, we’re committed to developing innovative solutions that enhance security without creating barriers.
From automated doors and access control systems to flexible security shields and speed gates, our range of products and bespoke solutions are designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients and their users. We understand that every site has unique challenges, and we’re dedicated to finding the right balance of security and accessibility for each situation.
With Safetell’s expertise and innovative solutions, we can help you create a safer, more inclusive environment for everyone who uses your space.