Gate Modifications & Fabrications

Aug 1, 2024 | Access Control, Building Security, Electronic locks, Locks, Locksmith Services, Washington Law Update

Today we wanted to dive into Gate Modifications & Fabrications. When it comes to securing gates, single gate padlocks have long been a common choice due to their simplicity and reliability. These basic locks offer essential protection and are often favored for their straightforward installation. However, as security evolves and safety becomes increasingly important, it’s worth exploring better options that can enhance both safety and ease of access. Lets dive into the limitations of traditional fork latches and highlight more advanced gate locking solutions that offer improved security and increased safety. Whether you’re upgrading your security or managing a commercial property, understanding these alternatives can help you make an informed decision and better protect your space. Whether it’s bolted on or welded, we can handle it!

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Single Gate with Padlock

Design: Typically a basic gate with a simple locking mechanism that uses a padlock.

Security: Provides basic security. The padlock can be easily replaced or upgraded for increased security.

Accessibility: Requires unlocking with a key or combination to open, which can be less convenient if frequent access is needed.

Usage: Common in residential areas or commercial environments.

Upgrading can offer enhanced security and greater convenience

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Single Gate Ultra Latch

Design: Features a more advanced and durable construction with a latching mechanism that provides padlock protection.

Security: Offers better security than a standard fork latch due to its robust construction, ability to protect the padlock and its fasteners.

Accessibility: Requires unlocking with a key or combination to open, which can be less convenient if frequent access is needed.

Usage: Suitable for environments where enhanced security is important, such as utility sites, large perimeter fencing, or anywhere where property or products needs more security.

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Single Gate Panic Bar Gate

Design :The panic bar on the gate provides an easy emergency exit by spanning its width, allowing push-to-open without unlocking. It features a self-latching mechanism for maximum security.

Security: Focuses on safety and rapid egress in use with security.

Accessibility: Provides a safe and easy exit for people, especially in emergency situations.

Usage: Ideal for areas where safety regulations require safe and easy exit options. Typically used in commercial buildings, schools, and public areas where quick evacuation is critical.

Want to learn more?

Want to learn more info on Gate Modifications & Fabrications?

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(360) 696-4901

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Protect Your Business from Break-Ins with Latch Guards

Jan 8, 2020 | Featured Product, Building Security

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Protecting your business from break-ins and burglary is a smart investment that pays off in more ways than one. Burglary incidents are common, and unfortunately, many businesses experience forced entries where thieves jam a crowbar between the door and frame to gain access. This method of break-in often causes severe damage, not only requiring door repairs or replacement but leading to high costs from stolen goods, lost productivity, and sometimes, a decline in tenant satisfaction and retention.

Frontline Defense’s new latch guard offers a proactive solution that stops these break-ins before they start, protecting your property and valuable assets. This latch guard is more than just a basic plate – it provides full door latch protection by covering the entire door opening, reinforcing it against prying tools. Business owners and property managers find the latch guard effective because it deters thieves and enhances safety, fostering a secure environment for employees and tenants.

When a break-in occurs, the costs quickly add up. Repairing doors and damaged frames can be expensive, and in many cases, the entire door needs to be replaced. What’s more, the cost of replacing stolen equipment, such as computers, cameras, and other essential items, can skyrocket. Beyond the initial replacement cost, downtime for repairs, asset replacement, and security upgrades can lead to significant business losses, which impact the bottom line. Even after security upgrades, it can take time for business owners and employees to regain confidence and feel secure again.

Frontline Defense’s latch guard is a powerful, cost-effective solution for these security concerns. With a focus on durability, these guards are designed to withstand high-impact force, helping deter burglars from even attempting entry. This latch guard not only keeps potential thieves out but also prevents property damage, saving businesses the hassle and expense of costly repairs. The latch guard provides full protection to the door latch, unlike partial plates that only cover the opening. Covering the entire latch area leaves no space for a crowbar to wedge in, dramatically reducing the risk of forced entry.

For property managers, these latch guards are also valuable because they can reduce tenant turnover. Tenants want to feel secure in their residences or workplaces, and knowing that their property managers have invested in high-quality security measures can significantly increase their satisfaction. This kind of visible, robust security can give tenants peace of mind, fostering a positive reputation and attracting reliable, long-term tenants.

Frontline Defense offers latch guards in various materials and finishes to suit your specific needs. Whether your building requires a sleek aluminum look or the strength of steel, these latch guards are customizable to match the aesthetics of your business. Available colors include classic finishes like aluminum/silver, white, brown, and black, and there are options for custom colors to ensure the latch guard complements your existing decor.

An additional benefit of the latch guard is its potential to reduce drafts around door frames. Many doors, particularly older ones, have small gaps where air can leak through, leading to higher heating and cooling costs. By sealing these gaps, the latch guard can enhance insulation, making your space more energy-efficient. This not only reduces operational costs but also makes your business more environmentally friendly, which is an added bonus for companies focused on sustainability.

Preventative security measures like latch guards are almost always less expensive than dealing with the aftermath of a break-in. Beyond the financial impact, break-ins can disrupt operations, causing downtime, security system overhauls, and even a loss of trust among clients or tenants. Proactive installation of a latch guard can make a major difference in business continuity and peace of mind. With an installation time of fewer than three hours, these latch guards can quickly be put into place, providing immediate protection and long-term benefits.

Taking action now with a latch guard is a wise choice for any business owner. Whether you manage a retail storefront, a commercial building, or a residential property, investing in security measures that prevent theft before it happens is invaluable. Our latch guards are specifically designed to protect your assets, reduce repair costs, and minimize disruptions that can hurt your bottom line.

Don’t wait for a break-in to expose vulnerabilities in your security. Contact us at (360) 696-4901 to learn more about how a latch guard can protect your property. In just three hours, you can gain peace of mind, knowing that your business or property is equipped to withstand attempts at forced entry. By investing in a latch guard, you’re making a smart, proactive choice that supports long-term business security and success.

Lockout/Tagout Solutions for Facility Managers

Mar 26, 2019 | Building Security, Featured Product, Locks, Locksmith Services

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What is lockout solution?

Lockout/Tagout (aka LOTO) is a system that outlines measures for controlling hazardous energies like electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, chemical, and thermal. Industrial production facilities use lockout/tagout products to first lock a switch or valve with a safety device and to indicate when a piece of machinery or equipment should not be turned on until completion of maintenance or servicing work.

Why is lockout/tagout important?

The lockout/tagout standard is designed to protect the 3 million plus employees who service or maintain machines or equipment that may be exposed to serious harm or death if hazardous energy isn’t properly controlled. Non-compliance with this standard routinely results in worker related injuries and sometimes even deaths. According to the OSHA, compliance with the lockout/tagout standard prevents and estimated 120 fatalities and 50,000 injuries each year.

How do you protect your building and workers?

Employers are responsible for protecting employees from hazardous energy sources on machines and equipment during service and maintenance. Use only lockout/tagout devices authorized for the equipment and ensure that the lockout/tagout devices identify the individual users. Most importantly, make sure to have a documented and enforced energy control procedure for your building and its employees.

Where do you buy lockout/tagout supplies?

Harry’s Locksmith is a one-stop security shop for property managers in Vancouver and the Portland metro area. From padlocks to lockout kits and labels, we carry in stock Abus safety lockout/tagout solutions.

Harry’s Locksmith provides the products and services you need to help keep your building secure and OSHA compliant. The OSHA LOTO standard has 5 requirements that all safety products and devices must meet:
1) Durable
2) Substantial
3) Standardized
4) Identifiable
5) Exclusive for safety

Click here to read the full OSHA standard for The Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout), Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations.

For more information on LOTO products or to purchase LOTO supplies, give us a call at 360-696-4901.

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Harry’s is Your Go-To Company for Building Lock Replacement Services

Jan 18, 2019 | Locksmith Services, Building Security, Commercial Locksmith

Harrys is Your Go To Company for Building Lock Replacement Service

For many building owners, security is a top priority. You wouldn’t trust just anyone with entry into your building. So why trust just any company with your lock replacement service? If you have a tenant move out, an employee leave the company, or another change in building occupancy, you may decide that it’s time to change or upgrade your locks.

But not any locksmith will do. You’ll want to find a company that’s reliable, trustworthy, and has a history of providing quality service and products. We’re confident Harry’s Locksmith fits the bill.

Here are our top reasons that Harry’s is your go-to company for building lock replacement service.

We Always Answer the Call

Harry’s is your go-to company for lock replacement services because we’re always there to answer the call. We understand that emergencies happen. That’s why we provide 24-hour emergency service. If you experience a threat to your safety and security and want to remedy the situation immediately, we’ll be there to provide emergency lock replacement services. Harry’s is here to work for you around the clock when you need it the most and we’re always quick to respond.

We’re Trustworthy

According to the Better Business Bureau, there are a few things to keep in mind when hiring a locksmith. For instance, you should be wary of a company that provides a low estimate but then adds expensive fees for labor, mileage, or other parts of the job.

Instead, look for a reputable company that has a history of providing reliable quotes. It’s also a good idea to ask for recommendations from those you know who have recently worked with a locksmith and to ask for the credentials of any company you hire.

Harry’s was established in 1949 and there’s a reason we’ve been in business for so long. It’s because of our strong reputation in the industry and the quality service that we provide. We will give you accurate estimates so you know exactly what our lock replacement services will cost. Harry’s also has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and is an active member of the Greater Vancouver Business Bureau, so you can be confident that you are hiring a trusted locksmith to perform the job. For more BBB tips on hiring the right locksmith, look here.

Since locksmiths will have access to your home, building, or car, it’s important to hire the right one. You can never be too careful and should do diligent research before deciding which locksmith to hire.

Our Staff is Knowledgeable

Commercial buildings have to be code compliant and that includes doors and locks. There are certain types of locks and hardware that you will need in order for your building to pass commercial inspection. For instance, you will need to have fire exit hardware and panic exit locks so that your occupants can exit the building quickly and safely in case of an emergency.

In addition to providing emergency egress, doors and hardware should be ADA-compliant. We can upgrade hardware to meet ADA standards, as well as install automatic door openers to ensure code compliance. If you are considering lock replacement services, it’s important to hire a local locksmith who is familiar with the International Building Code, as well as local laws and regulations.

It’s important the locksmith you hire provides you not only with what you need but also with what you want. There are many locks on the market and if you are looking for an upgrade, you’ll want to find someone who can provide expert advice and recommendations. That’s why it’s important to hire locksmiths who are familiar with the latest products on the market.

For instance, do you want a lock that provides a delayed egress option? This would be good for buildings in which occupants must be closely monitored. For instance, the maternity ward of a hospital could benefit from delayed egress hardware so that security can keep a close watch on those entering and exiting that part of the building.

Or perhaps you have a mag lock and need help deciding between a fail-secure locking device, which will remain locked when the power is lost or, a fail-safe locking device, which unlocks when power is lost. The former might work best for a storage room, for instance, that has valuables you want to keep secure even when power is lost.

If you’re uncertain which option you prefer or feel overwhelmed by the available choices, our expert locksmiths will work with you to determine what options are best for you and your business.

We’re a One-Stop Shop

Harry’s is your go-to company for lock replacement services because we’re a full-service locksmith. If you own a business, a home, and a vehicle, there’s a good chance that you’re going to need a locksmith on more than one occasion. Why not use a locksmith that’s well versed in all areas? Why roll the dice and take your chances each time you need to hire a locksmith? Instead, look for one that is skilled in multiple lock replacement services.

Harry’s Locksmith offers commercial, residential, and automobile services. We’re a one-stop shop for your service needs. As the Better Business Bureau suggests, if you have found a locksmith that you enjoy working with, save their contact info for the next time you need service. This will be easier if you have a locksmith that is skilled in all areas-residential, commercial, and automobile.

Are you in need of immediate lock replacement services? We get can get the job done quickly, thoroughly, and for an affordable price.

To get started, fill out this easy online form. We’ll contact you to learn more about your needs and determine how we can provide you with the best possible lock replacement service. We understand the importance of your safety and security. Harry’s is not only your go-to company. We’re key to getting your lock replacement services done right.

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Advancements in Smart Lock Technology You’ll Want to Know

Aug 20, 2018 | Building Security

Advancements in Door Locking Technology Youll Want to Know

As technology becomes more advanced, thieves and burglars become more sophisticated. From identity theft to telephone spoofing, criminals are getting more creative in how they target you and your belongings.

Fortunately, even as these scams and schemes have become more advanced, so too has the technology to combat them. Harry’s Locksmith, your longtime North Portland locksmith, offers top of the line door locking technology that will protect you and your valuables. We’ll go over some of the more recent advancements in door locking and tell you how to best safeguard both your safety and security.

One of the more common (and avoidable) mistakes a homeowner can make is not locking the door at all. How many times has each of us left for vacation and wondered if we turned off the stove? Or been hours down the road and begun to question if we left the front door unlocked? With technological advancements, that problem has now been solved.

Many smart locks, such as Nexia Home Intelligence, enable you to control your door locks from the convenience of your mobile phone. Using an app, you can control your lock from virtually anywhere. You can even activate private codes for up to 19 friends and family members, allowing others entry to your house even when you’re away.

Need a cat sitter while you’re away for a few days? You can give your sitter temporary access to your home for a set time period. You can then revoke that access as needed. No more worrying about the ex who still has keys to your house! Removing the need for physical keys, smart locks like Nexia ensure that you’re always in control of who has access to your home.

Some even include advanced features, such as taking photos of each person who gains entry into your house—that way you can monitor who is accessing your home and at what times.

If you’re someone who often misplaces your keys, then fingerprint door locks are another good option. Fingerprint locks eliminate the need to carry keys or memorize access codes. Instead, unlocking your front door is quite literally at your fingertips.

Many fingerprint door locks have automatic features as well, eliminating the need to manually lock the door, or worry about whether you did so. You can also store multiple fingerprints so that other family members will have access to the home when you’re away.

In addition to making it more difficult for others to pick your lock or otherwise gain entry into your home, smart locks also have the ability to alert you when someone does gain access. TheSchlage Connect Touchscreen Deadbolt, for instance, will emit a loud beep when it senses activity, such as movement around your front door, tampering, or forced entry. This will enable you to quickly detect when you have an unexpected houseguest. In fact, the Schlage Connect Touchscreen Deadbolt has received the highest possible grade in security, durability, and finish.

Of course, the best advancements in door locking technology will enhance both security and convenience. As technology advances, we have the opportunity to do more with less. In addition to keeping your home secure, many smart door locks will also control other features of your house.

The Yale Real Living Keyless Touchscreen Deadbolt, for instance, connects with your home’s smart devices so that you can turn on lights or even the coffee pot upon arriving home. It also protects your privacy. If you’re having a romantic dinner, select the privacy mode, which will temporarily lock out everyone that has an access code to your home.

Furthermore, some smart locks take your safety one step further. In addition to safeguarding your home against burglars, they enhance your safety by communicating with other life-saving devices. For instance, you can have doors unlock when a smoke or carbon monoxide detector is triggered, enabling you to more quickly exit your home in an emergency situation.

Another way smart locks make life simpler and more convenient? Not only do they help you keep better tabs on your home, they also have the ability to help you keep better tabs on your family.

Have an unruly teenager who likes to sneak out of the house or break curfew? Certain smart locks, such as Yale Lift Master, will help you monitor the comings and goings of your child. Many smart locks will send text alerts to your smartphone, allowing you to know when the door has been opened. Such features help to keep your family safe in more ways than one.

Some smart locks can be installed over your existing locks; others will need to have a new system installed altogether. Whatever lock you ultimately choose, Harry’s Locksmith will ensure that installation is quick and easy.

We’ve been operating as a North Portland locksmith for seven decades, providing a range of commercial, residential, and automobile services. We’ll make sure your home is secure. After all, thieves and burglars are often looking for easy access and entry. Simply having the most advanced technology often serves as a deterrent.

Days of leaving keys under the front doormat for visitors and neighbors are gone. Today, you have to be much more savvy when it comes to protecting your space. Using some of these advancements in door locking technology will help keep your family safe.

If you’re trying to decide the best lock for your home or office, contact your North Portland locksmith today. We’ll assess your needs and help you determine which door locking technology is the best fit for you. Security is our top priority. Give us a call so we can make sure it’s also yours.

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Access Control: Does My Company Need This Type of Protection?

Aug 9, 2018 | Building Security

Access control is something that your company may need, but you might not have realized this just yet. At Harry’s Locksmith, your trusty locksmith in Beaverton and other surrounding areas, we want to explore this deeper with you. Access control is exactly what it sounds like—it is the selective restriction of access to a place. The two basic types of access control systems that we have today are wired and wireless. Popular types of access control systems include pin codes, alarms, key cards, and biometric scanners. Access Control Does My Company Need This Type of Protection - Locksmith BeavertonThese systems are becoming much more common. For instance, sales revenue in 2016 were in excess of $6.39 billion. This number is expected to continue to grow, with industry experts predicting that by 2023 this number will reach $10.03 billion. Industry experts also believe that it will have a compound annual growth rate of 6.48 percent. At your local locksmith in Beaverton, we have been following these trends, which is why we are proud to share that access control is one of our specialties, specifically commercial electronic access control. Business owners have a responsibility to themselves, shareholders, clients, and employees to maintain a safe work environment. Not only should individuals feel safe knowing the right people are in the right place, but the valuable resources you work with and sensitive information clients share with you needs to be protected as well. That’s why it’s imperative to stay up-to-date on the latest security systems available and access control is an ideal choice. So, why would your company want this type of protection? If You Have a Lot of Employees If you only have a handful of employees, your stereotypical lock-and-key access system will likely still work. However, if you have a large number of employees, this could be more difficult to manage. When you have a large number of employees, there are a larger number of keys to be responsible for. These keys can be lost, or, if you do not give keys to everyone in the office, those without keys need to rely on those with keys in order to get into the building. By switching to an access control system you are automating the whole process and will not have to worry about these issues any longer. Employees will be able to enter the building either with their own key card embedded with wireless technology or with a pin code that is specific to them. All employees can have access to the building and will not have to rely on their supervisor or anyone else. And, you’ll know exactly who and when each person enters the premises. If You Want to Know Who is in Your Building Access control provides only certain people with clearance to your building, or even to specific areas within your building. If you are interested in knowing who is in the building on what days, or who is in a specific room of your building at specific times, access control allows you to do exactly this. Thanks to a badge with embedded wireless technology, or specific pin numbers/security code allotted to each employee, you will have an electronic record of everyone who has entered the room or building. Additionally, with access control systems you will be able to control who can access the buildings or rooms at all times, or on certain days and times. If you are doing something confidential that only a handful of people are supposed to work on, you can restrict access to the building or a specific room just to those employees. Furthermore, if there is ever an issue of stolen items or someone was let go, you will have a record of who was in the building and can quickly terminate access as needed. If You Want to Further Protect Data Breaches Access control systems allow companies to have a much more efficient database management. A key card or pin number can simply allow or disallow specific employees from accessing certain computers, or areas within a computer, that are connected to the company’s network. There will also be a record of everything, which means that if there is a data breach, you know who was looking at that data in the moments before the breach. Additionally, having an access control system in place will also further ensure that outsiders are not able to gain access to any confidential information you possess. If You Want to Save Money It may look like a big number upon installing access systems, but in the long run, you will likely end up saving money for your business. By installing access control systems, your energy bills will reduce greatly. You can link your access control system with the building management system. This will allow the building management system to be specially configured to automatically turn off any unnecessary lighting, air conditioning, or heating in areas where employees are not currently working. This will also allow lights to be turned off automatically at night, resulting in the last person out of work never having to worry again as to whether or not they shut everything off properly. And as a boss, you won’t have to worry that someone is trespassing. When you choose this secure system, the keys will never get into the wrong hands. Access control systems are a great way to secure your business, as well as saving money in the long-run. It will allow your employees to feel more protected, and keep your clients at ease knowing their information is in safe keeping within your high-tech facility. Plus, peace-of-mind for yourself is invaluable. If you are interested in installing an access control system? Give your local Beaverton locksmith a call, as we will gladly review your current security measures and help you to determine if access controlled entrances are the safeguard you need.  

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