Custom Access Solutions for School and Colleges
Any person who has had children that have attended an educational setting will tell you that the most important factor about that setting is whether their child is safe. It is probably an assumption that any setting that involves the coming and going of young people would have the appropriate physical safeguarding in one form or another.
Unfortunately, with the amount of bad news we are exposed to, it’s very easy to feel paranoid or fearful about the safety of children at school or college but with the right measures and building management, educational settings can be some of the safest places to occupy for both students and staff.
Here, we have a look at what solutions are available and why they are a great choice for school safety.
Security fencing has multiple benefits
School security fencing comes in many styles and sizes. It’s easy to picture the idea of high fencing around a school premises as being imposing or hostile but in actual fact, it can be a way to not only enforce extra security measures but also look attractive since they can be brightly or tastefully coloured.
Steel fencing is also an excellent way for an educational setting to feel spacious and still have a view of the outside. By comparison, high walling, for example, doesn’t provide the same benefit here since it is blocky and doesn’t let light through. The installation of school fencing ensures that the entire perimeter of the grounds is isolated, in the safest and most unobtrusive way possible, from any intruders or unwanted visitors. A building management team and all faculty can be assured that their jobs are made that bit easier by knowing that students are protected by their school security fencing.
In addition, fencing plays its part even when the school is closed and no one is there, by deterring vandals or thieves. It is a super strong material which prevents fencing from becoming damaged too easily.
Automatic gates and access control systems
When it comes to the entry and exit of school or college grounds for vehicles, in particular, there is no safer measure than the installation of automatic gates. These ensure that only authorised persons can enter when the gates are in operation. Security gates can be controlled via the use of either an intercom system or remote-control entry system. When used in conjunction with security cameras, automatic gates are particularly effective.
If an unexpected visitor arrives, any authorised personnel can operate the gates with the push of a button once they are satisfied with the validity of their visitation and by checking camera’s. Cameras also ensure that footage is recorded if necessary.
There are many styles of automatic gates and a trusted supplier will be able to advise and reassure about what is most suited the grounds in question. They should also provide a force test certificate to prove the strength and efficiency of the gates against any forced entry.
Security for all school entry points
To improve the management of all access points into a school, it’s common for the building management to introduce security access systems on doors. It might seem an extreme measure but it is now extremely routine and provides an extra level of safety for peace of mind.
Most security access systems involve the use of a key card which activates the unlocking of security doors. These key cards can be programmed to give each member of staff a unique level of authority on a variety of doors within a building. Only an authorised person is able to use the security doors, making each room or corridor as safe as possible from unwanted visitors.
Particularly popular within college settings are automatic doors. Whilst most colleges will provide a fairly free style entry and exit system whereby the automatic doors open and close via the use of a sensor, it is possible to adopt a more cautious approach with the installation of entry card access instead. This is similar to the security access control for doors, as discussed above. In this scenario, students and staff are issued with entry cards to gain access to the college at designated spots and anyone without, is required to ring a bell or intercom.
Crucial Engineering – a trusted partner in Educational Security
If you are in a building management role and are researching security solutions for an education setting, Crucial Engineering are experts in their field. At Crucial, we pride ourselves on building and maintaining long-term relationships with clients in the education sector, and provide the value, quality, service and transparency they deserve. Contact us today to discuss your requirements.
Why you should use automatic car park barriers
By 2020, 68% of the UK’s working population commuted by car which is perhaps a surprising fact given the push in recent years towards having more accountability for our carbon footprints. And in the last 20 years, the number of cars on the road in the UK has increased by 5.5 million.. Understandably, the growth in the number of vehicles on the road has had the knock-on effect of a demand for more parking spaces.
The pursuit for appropriate parking exists for a variety of reasons. Be it a shopping trip in a City Centre, a visit to the hospital, a day at work or meeting a friend for lunch. Whatever the reason, most drivers will be all too familiar with the frustration of searching for a parking space which can be time consuming and in extremely busy locations, lead to an increase in fuel consumption. Here we examine a variety of car parking scenarios and the benefits of automatic car park barriers for both business and consumer.
The company car park
For most employees, having an allocated or private car park is a huge perk. It provides a safe and secure environment for their vehicle, removes stress and can offer time back in their day. As long as the entry and exit from it is easy.
For many companies, these car parks are controlled by a member of staff which then relies on them turning up to work, being on time, staying alert and being available. It also relies on them being able to check that the person trying to park has the correct ID and then if not, acquiring the appropriate permissions to allow them to enter. This can cause queues, a reduction in the turnover of parking spaces and huge frustration for workers. In this instance, the installation of an automatic barrier would be the perfect car parking solution.
Barrier systems are sturdy, safe and can be fitted with access controls to allow staff to enter and exit the car park with ease by scanning an ID card. Moreover, the longer term saving on investing in an automatic car park barrier vs staffing a car park is a of huge benefit to the business.
The pay and display car park
Everyone has been to a pay and display car park and driven around it for what seems like hours on end, only to find that there are no spaces and have to leave. Moreover, if you do find a parking space, there is the additional annoyance of then finding the pay machine, having the correct change, waiting for a slow contactless or credit card machine or having to download an app in order pay for your parking. Of which you have to estimate a time for. If you end up going over the allotted time, you are then required to either run back to pay for more parking or incur a fine.
The benefits of implementing automatic car park barriers here are huge for the consumer. The addition of traffic controls in this situation can provide the user with valuable information about space availability and whether it is worth waiting for a space. For people whom time is of an essence, such as those visiting a hospital or health centre, the use of an automatic barrier can provide more instantaneous information about whether they can or can’t park for a given amount of time or whether there are any available spaces. In addition, if their appointment runs over or they are in a waiting room for longer than expected, a ticket system which calculates the fee for parking upon exiting removes any stress about getting back for an allocated time.
The shopping centre car park
Many shopping centres or stores have complementary car parks for their customers. Some provide parking that is on a pay and display basis, sometimes with the addition of a traffic control warden or security cameras, recording the coming and going of every vehicle that enters and exits the car park. For the latter, many land owners are searching for more suitable car parking solutions in order to protect the profit from car park users.
Many drivers use these car parks without paying and displaying, particularly in car parks that don’t operate a security camera alongside them. An automatic car park barrier here would be a simple installation that would provide more safe and secure entry and exit to the designated parking areas. The initial investment of this type of parking system is worth it for the longer-term revenues from guaranteed customer payments.
Crucial Engineering
If you own a business and are looking for car parking solutions, get in touch with Crucial Engineering. Whatever industry your business belongs to, Crucial will be able to provide expert and sound advice. With a wealth of experience, and exceptional client recommendations behind them, they are an excellent choice. Contact us today to discuss your requirements in confidence.
The advantages of using aluminium in construction
Aluminium is quickly becoming the dominant metal used in exterior building design. Due to its lightweight properties and durability it’s now the ideal material for doors and window frames, along with modern exterior structures such as curtain walling. If you’re not familiar with its use then it’s now likely you regularly see examples of aluminium in a host of large or commercial building structures.
Aluminium is a natural occurring material that is readily available - it’s the third most common element in the Earth’s crust (after Oxygen and Silicon), and the most common metal on the planet. It's non flammable and resistant to corrosion.
These and other benefits of aluminium make it the number one choice in modern and efficient building design - and here’s why:
Highly versatile and flexible
Aluminium can be used in a wide variety of ways and can be efficiently engineered to meet specific requirements such as tight curves or colour choices. Working with aluminium will create fantastic aesthetics and gives architects and designers the freedom to create beautiful structures.
Aluminium introduces virtually limitless design potential and is flexible enough to bring any idea to life.
Lightweight and strong
Aluminium is a third of the weight of steel which makes it easier to both work with and transport. It’s also incredibly strong so is ideal for a host of purposes including features such as window frames as it will securely hold very large panes of glass. Due to the it’s strength, door and window frames can also be made thinner which can further boost the look of a building.
Long lasting and resistant to corrosion
Aluminium is a natural material and therefore has inbuilt resistance to inclement weather and corrosion that other materials lack. Other commonly used construction materials such as timber and steel can change shape when exposed to varying temperatures, or degrade from moisture or just have more limited lifespans – especially when not regularly maintained.
Once an aluminium solution has been engineered and installed it’ll not only look fantastic but it’ll also only need limited checks to maintain the same quality.
The environmentally friendly choice
The commercial construction trade is increasingly becoming more conscious of a project’s impact on the environment. Creating buildings that are “green” that both reduce waste and boost energy efficiency are vital – and using sustainable materials is a key part of this.
It’s not widely known that aluminium is 100% recyclable, and can be re-used for any purpose without losing much of the original quality.
Aluminium is also a fantastic insulator and will both withstand outside elements and keep heat inside, making indoor temperature regulation much easier and efficient.
The team at Crucial Engineering are a national commercial aluminium fabricator. We manufacture, install and maintain commercial aluminium products to create high quality and secure access solutions. When you work with us you can be sure of a fantastic long term relationship including expert aluminium fabrication services alongside the very best customer service.
Main benefits and uses of automatic barriers
Traffic barriers are a highly effective way to control the flow of traffic on any large industrial site such as factories or construction sites. They provide complete control for all types of vehicles and provide safety and security within any restricted areas.
Traffic barriers not only provide highly secure entrances to any premises, they’re also great for use at security checkpoints should they be required once a vehicle has already gained access to the main site.
Here we’ve put together the main benefits and uses of automatic barriers:
Benefits of automatic traffic barriers
1. Cost effective
Once installed, automatic barriers usually cost little to maintain and are long lasting. Plus, more cost savings can be made by reducing the need to pay personnel to constantly be present at site entrances. In many instances an effective barrier can literally replace the need to hire staff.
2. High level of security
A really common use of automatic barriers is to provide round the clock security. They’re essentially a physical barrier that prevents any unauthorised vehicles entering your premises. Alongside the barrier it’s also increasingly common to introduce other security measures such as voice intercom and remote control operating. It’s also possible to have a keypad so anyone with a code can easily open the barrier without the need to speak to anyone.
3. Very reliable
Most automatic barriers have very few moving parts which makes them very reliable as there’s little to go wrong. This reduces any burden you might think exists around maintenance or repairs.
Common uses for automatic traffic barriers
When people think of automatic barriers they tend to just think about their use in car parks, but they’re actually very versatile and can be used to meet different needs. So aside from controlling car parks, here’s some uses you may not have considered:
1. Control the flow of traffic
There are many reasons why the flow of traffic will need to be controlled through any business premises or construction site. You might need to simply have control of who enters, or perhaps restrict the number of vehicles that are on site at any time. Plus, if you expect large numbers of vehicles to leave at the same time they can control the flow to avoid accidents.
If you operate multiple traffic barriers within the same premises then they can also be programmed to work in sync to ensure the highest level of safety.
2. Keep a record of who’s entered
Any vehicle passing through your barriers will need to stop for a few moments which is more than enough time for an additional security system to scan the registration or take a picture. There could be many reasons why you specifically need to know who’s entered your site and when they left.
3. Prevent unwanted access
Automatic barriers are fantastic for preventing any unwanted vehicles entering your premises or site. Plus, if there’s a period where you’re not expecting anyone to arrive you can simply set the barrier to be permanently closed. This is great security both in and out of business hours.
A complete aluminium package for KFC
As specialists in aluminium engineering, Crucial were commissioned by the principle contractor for a KFC in 2022 to provide the supply and installation of a full aluminium package for their new restaurant.
Understanding the many benefits of using aluminium for a shop fit out, KFC appointed Crucial to undertake the project. With many years of expertise and a host of big named brands already under their belt, Crucial were a reliable and well-respected choice.
KFC electing aluminium for a variety of applications within the project was a calculated decision. With a stringent budget, there is much to be achieved with the use of aluminium. As a super strength, yet lightweight material, it is frequently chosen by property planners to form many parts of building projects. Compared with other materials, aluminium is hard wearing and durable, excellently withstanding weathering and high traffic usage.
How Curtain Walling Boosts The Appearance Of Any Building
In today’s design led world, it’s become increasingly important for architects and building engineers to design aesthetically beautiful structures both inside and out. Working within the restrictions of a budget and space limitations, having cost friendly options available for the structure of the outside of a building is essential.
Most architects are striving to create modern, minimalist looking buildings that will stand the test of time. For these reasons, the use of aluminium curtain walling is frequently a popular choice.
Here, we explore why.
What is aluminium curtain walling?
An aluminium curtain wall is an external framework, separate from the main construction of a building. It is non structural which provides architects with more design freedom when it comes to the exterior of a building. Also sometimes called façade or curtain glazing, it is a framework constructed from aluminium and glass with no limitations to the size or shape of it’s finished structure.
How and where is it used?
There are two types of curtain walling most commonly used in industry:
Pressure Equalised Systems – this system uses gaskets, pressure plates and external cappings which are designed to provide a finish that is impervious to any moisture.
Face Sealed Systems – this system uses a glass to glass framework whereby utter precision is required when sealing the interface.
Usually, a curtain walling system will rely on aluminium mullions and transoms to support the main structure. The bars that make up the main grid for the walling can come in custom sizes and depths depending on the design.
In the past, aluminium curtain walling would have typically been used for large, public buildings such as shopping centres or office blocks. But in recent years, it has also started being utilised for residential properties and smaller buildings as well. The reason for its use on large buildings is that it has very few design limitations. It’s ability to be used to cover vast exterior spaces means that architects and builders can create buildings that have clean lines and a modern appearance with the benefit of being cost effective too, which we’ll go into more detail about later.
Why aluminium curtain walling?
The transformative qualities that using an aluminium curtain walling possesses is quite remarkable. It’s prevailing use in architecture for nearly 100yrs, is evidence that it remains a popular choice for creating not only functional and durable building exteriors but also stunning ones too – where a designer intends. Because of a curtain walling’s flexibility in terms of size and style, a designer can create structures fabricated solely of glass which is a quality entirely unique to itself.
Added benefits and advantages
In addition to its design appeal, a glass curtain wall has wonderful structural advantages as well. Because it is manufactured out of aluminium, which is a notoriously lightweight material, it can support its own weight efficiently when compared to other building exterior options. This makes the need for expensive additional foundations surplus to requirement, passing on a cost saving benefit to the client. Despite its lightweight character, curtain glazing is substantially stronger than windows alone. On top of this, the systems used to create a glass curtain wall make it fully sealed against the elements. The failsafe weatherproofing that aluminium curtain walling provides means it is a durable, hardy and long lasting way to protect a building.
The aesthetic allure of curtain glazing
Once upon a time, the requirement for a decent amount of daylight within a building may have been considered a frivolous luxury. Nowadays, it’s more or less an essential design stipulation, with exposure to daylight being linked to increased wellbeing and good health. The wealth and quality of light that an aluminium curtain wall affords within a building, is second to none. Indeed, a designer can choose to have the entire exterior of a building constructed just from glass. More frequently, it is used to cover multiple floors or segment between floors. Or sometimes the whole of a side or entrance floor to a building.
Curtain glazing also carries the ability to be used for creating curved shapes to the outside of a building. This sets it apart from other types of materials because not only can it be used in this way, it is also usually an affordable option for most developers who want something special but are working within the limitations of a budget.
Flexibility for a good price
The majority of projects that incorporate the use of an aluminium frames and curtain walling, do so for it’s use of glass. However, other materials can be utilised as well which provides a vast choice for colours, finishes and textures. This makes it hugely appealing for projects where brand integrity is a big consideration.
The fact that facade glazing can look so beautiful, is one of the main reasons that it has started being used more frequently in residential architecture. Light and space are design benefits that more and more homeowners are demanding.
Regardless of the building project, because glass and aluminium can both be budget friendly materials to source, the spectacular design a curtain glazing administers doesn’t need to cost the earth!
The team at Crucial Engineering are a national commercial aluminium fabricator. We manufacture, install and maintain commercial aluminium products to create high quality and secure access solutions. When you work with us you can be sure of a fantastic long term relationship including expert aluminium fabrication services alongside the very best customer service.
Why your business needs industrial roller shutter doors
Roller shutter doors can be used for a wide range of applications in a variety of businesses and organisations from warehouses through to storage facilities. They’re an excellent way of providing easy access to a premises whilst also offering excellent levels of security. They protect against inclement weather, vandalism and any attempts at burglary or break ins.
But why does your business need industrial roller shutter doors? Here we take a look at all the key benefits and uses:
Heightened levels of security
Installing commercial roller shutters to external access points not only instantly lifts the security of your building but it also acts as a fantastic deterrent to would-be thieves. Security roller shutters dramatically increase the amount of time any criminal has to spend gaining access which makes them ideal in a host of commercial and industrial settings.
Plus, if you have extended periods where your business premises are empty, such as a commercial warehouse over Christmas, then roller shutters provide a greater degree of protection.
Muti-use access points
The beauty of roller doors is that they can be supplied and fitted in custom sizes to fit a specific space and purpose. If you operate a warehouse, commercial storage or distribution centre then it’s likely there’ll be a regular need for both people and vehicles to access the building.
Roller doors take just a few moments to open and can allow anything from forklifts to vans to drive straight in and out to quickly and efficiently deliver or load items. They can then be shut just as quickly to secure your business once the job is complete.
Modern safety triggers
Due to their nature it’s easy to think that roller shutters could become dangerous if operated incorrectly. However, modern roller shutter doors can be supplied with a range of fall back safety brakes and features such as safety edges, audible warning signals and traffic lights.
Weather protection and temperature control
Roller shutter doors provide more protection from natural elements than any standard doors. Plus, they’re great insulators in temperature-controlled buildings.
Whether you need increased protection from rain, wind, or unpredictable outdoor temperatures, then professionally installed and maintained insulated high speed doors are ideal. They’ll help keep the rain out but also make it easier to regulate the temperature indoors especially if it’s warm outdoors.
Enhanced fire protection
Industrial roller shutter doors can also be fire shutter doors which provide enhanced protection from the spread of smoke and fire than traditional doors. In the unlikely event of a fire, roller doors can contain a fire by stopping it from spreading internally or externally to other buildings or vehicles.
The level of fire protection does vary depending on the construction and maintenance of the door.
Better use of space
Traditional style doors open inwards or outwards, whereas high speed roller shutters open vertically which instantly increases the available space. This also makes loading and unloading much easier which saves time and money.
Unlike other entrance and exit points you’ll find there’s no need to ensure you’ve left clear spaces around the door. The beauty of roller shutters is that items and vehicles can be left much closer whether that’s inside the building or outdoors.
Easy to use
All modern roller shutters are quick and easy to operate. Regardless of whether they are power operated or use a manual chain system they’re easy to use and require little physical effort. Providing they are correctly maintained and serviced there’s no reason why any roller door shouldn’t continue to operate as new over a long period of time.
How Crucial can help
As automation specialists we have the expertise and infrastructure to supply, fit and maintain roller shutter doors in any industrial or commercial settings. We can customise any part of the door from size through to its operation to suit your needs.
Speak to our team about your requirements.
Why should you upgrade to an aluminium shop front
Any retail business only gets one chance to make a strong impression so make sure any potential customer is enticed by your shopfront. Aluminium shopfronts come with a host of benefits over just looking great, they’re eco-friendly, secure and highly versatile.
Compared to many other solutions, aluminium is cost effective and long-lasting. Below we’ve highlighted the essential advantages of aluminium shop fronts to give you an insight into how they can impact your business.
So what is an aluminium shop front?
An aluminium shopfront is the ideal solution for modern and secure retail premises. Aluminium offers a great balance of high level security and aesthetics, whilst also requiring relatively little maintenance. They come with a host of significant benefits including cost and durability, so are quickly becoming the go to solution.
Aluminium doors are made from lightweight but very strong metal and are often coupled with toughened glazing which provides a high level of natural light. Aluminium is also weather resistant and won’t change shape or corrode when exposed to natural elements.
Top benefits of Aluminium Shopfronts
Aluminium commercial products are becoming an increasingly popular option across the UK for a host of solutions including retail store fronts. We’ve put together some reasons why by looking at their main advantages:
1. Aluminium is a highly versatile material
The beauty of aluminium is that it can be manufactured to meet almost any bespoke requirement. It can be shaped to fit most spaces leaving any retail business free to concentrate on the design of the building. As an aluminium fabrication specialist, Crucial can bend or curve the material to fit almost any shape. Aluminium is sleek and smooth and can be customised to virtually any colour to add a whole new level of design.
2. Aluminium is the eco-friendly option
Just by choosing aluminium means you’re positively benefiting the environment compared to other materials as it’s completely renewable. Plus, it’s abundantly available so it’s straightforward to get hold of.
Aluminium isn’t just 100% recyclable, it can also be reshaped to meet a new requirement without losing much of its original quality. You can always be sure you’re getting robust and quality materials whilst also reducing your businesses impact on the environment.
3. Aluminium brings long term cost savings
As mentioned aluminium is readily available therefore the base costs and manufacturing process can be kept highly affordable. Plus there’s the added benefit that aluminium brings excellent thermal performance and when combined with glazing offers high insulation properties. Not only will you save on energy costs but you’ll also be able to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your retail shop whatever the weather conditions outside.
4. Aluminium can withstand outside elements
Even though aluminium is lightweight and relatively cheap it is extremely durable. It’s comfortable being exposed to and withstanding high temperatures in direct sunlight, and moisture from heavy rainfall. Other materials such as timber can change shape and encounter damage from changes in weather so will need regular checks and maintenance. Aluminium does not need constant maintenance as it’s resistant to corrosion and won’t warp or swell under constant changes in temperature.
5. Aluminium shopfronts can be designed to meet your branding
The use of aluminium ensures your shopfront design can meet your branding colours and general theme of your business. Aluminium is completely customisable and can be supplied with a host of glazing options. No matter the shape or size of your shopfront, aluminium can be manufactured to almost any colour and design to create a stylish appearance.
An aluminium shopfront can also be easily updated should it start to show signs of age or if your requirements change. Your shopfront can move with the times and demands of any busy retail business without becoming a financial burden.
Crucial are expert manufacturers of aluminium access and building solutions, our team can design, manufacture and install a bespoke aluminium shopfront befitting your business.
A refurbished entrance for Carnaud Metal Box Engineering
Based in Shipley, Carnaud Metal Box Engineering are part of a global network of metal can manufacturers. They design, develop and manufacture high-performance metal forming and finishing machinery for the production of metal cans for beverages, food and aerosols.
The Practical Benefits Of Aluminium Curtain Walling
The concept of aluminium curtain walling installation may be something unknown to you but it’s likely you see examples of this type of structure every day. A curtain wall can give any commercial building or modern architecture an eye-catching appearance whilst also bringing a series of practical advantages.
Previously many curtain walls were made from steel but are now made from aluminium because it’s lightweight. The curtain wall is then completed with glass or other materials to create a great looking building.
We’ve taken a look at a series of practical benefits of aluminium curtain walling:
Protect building structures from the elements
A curtain wall is non-structural so separate from the building itself and whilst any building should keep out the wind and rain, a curtain wall adds a layer of protection. It should insulate as well as block out the elements, and due to their cost effective maintenance they are ideal for locations with heavier rainfall.
Add attractive design to any building
Obviously the extra protection is more important but the fact that an aluminium curtain wall adds fantastic looks make them extremely popular with architects and building designers.
Adding a curtain wall will instantly create the look of an incredibly modern building with clean lines and flexible finishes. This along with the fact it’s lightweight means building designers have freedom to create imaginative structures. No matter if you’re designing a curved building, one with interesting angles or need classic straight lines, aluminium curtain walling is flexible enough to bring it to life.
In addition, if you’re wanting to create a totally unique look you can look to use a range of materials and shapes within your curtain walling. For example, you may choose to use coloured or shaped glass, or use triangles rather than the usual square or rectangles.
Allow large amounts of natural light to pass through
Natural light is always an important consideration in any building design. It doesn’t matter what the building’s purpose is, any building from office blocks to retail spaces, strive for natural light to create uplifting environments.
Plus, large amounts of natural light will also save on energy costs from artificial lighting. Large bright and airy spaces will also increase the value of the building as the space will instantly become more attractive to buyers or tenants.
In environments where large amounts of bright sunshine can be expected, a curtain wall can be fitted with glass with UV filters to protect the contents inside. This is ideal for buildings containing items of historical importance such as museums.
Depending on the design of the building structure, introducing opportunities to allow large amounts of natural light can be complex. This is where aluminium curtain walls are so useful as it’s relatively simple to add a lot of glazing for light to pass through.
Add insulating properties
We’ve already discussed how curtain walling is great at keeping the elements out, but they’re also amazing insulators which makes it easier to regulate inside temperatures. This further adds long term cost savings through reduced energy compared to more traditional building methods.
Prevent quick spread of fire
In the unlikely event of a disaster such as a fire a curtain wall will help prevent the spread, especially in taller buildings. Fires often spread from floor to floor on the outside surface and a curtain wall made from aluminium, complete with large amounts of glass, will at a minimum reduce the rate at which the fire is spreading.