Contains information about security booths and shelters and their use with a list of manufacturers and their products
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A security booth and shelter is a modular building that has been produced off site under controlled conditions and delivered as an assembled unit to a predetermined location. They are a convenient method for providing temporary or permanent shelter and protection for workers in a wide assortment of locations. The use of security booths and shelters is an inexpensive way to quickly organize an area or provide protection and security. They are one of the most widely used forms of temporary buildings due to the low cost, ease of installation, and durability.
Although modular security booths and shelters are modular, the same materials used to produce permanent structures are used in their construction. Building codes, construction requirements, and local regulations apply to them and must be followed in their assembly. Security booths and shelters are made of the highest quality materials. They are prefabricated and delivered to customers in one piece, wired, painted, and complete. In many cases, security booths and shelters are customized to meet special conditions and requirements.
The design of security booths and shelters includes various comfort features that are necessary for personnel. In the case of security booths, one of the primary concerns is a workstation for paperwork, which is necessary for personnel to record the entrance and departure of vehicles and workers, log security concerns, and record pertinent data.
The types of security booths and shelters widely vary but includes inspection booths, observation towers that can be placed on buildings or supports, ticket booths, and perimeter and interior checkpoints. The number of security booths and shelters is determined by the level of security that a location requires, which varies in accordance with the nature of the work performed and the relationship of an organization to governmental projects.
Unlike other types of shelters, security booths and shelters require the installation of windows on every side of the booth. This aspect of security booths assists personnel in performing their duties, which involves looking for trespassers or unauthorized persons and vehicles.
The components of security booths and shelters include wall panels, roofs, floors, doors, windows, and insulation. The determination of the factors that are included in security booths and shelters is decided by design engineers when the booths and shelters are being built. Due to the nature of the work performed by security personnel, components are made of resilient materials that are capable of withstanding constant use and environmental conditions.
The strength and endurance of a security booth is determined by the types of walls used to construct them. In most cases, steel and aluminum are used for security booth wall frames with the cores of the walls made of steel, wood, or aluminum. The parts of wall panels are stacked together in layers to form a solid surface with a core made of various types of materials that serve as protection and insulation.
The typical construction method used for the walls for security booths and shelters involves the use of sandwich panels that consist of an outer layer or layers, a core, and an outer layer or layers. As the number of layers of the walls increases, the stronger they are and their ability for protection increases. Core materials are lightweight and sturdy. For security booths, core materials can take several forms depending on the level of security. In most cases, the materials are fire resistant and offer environmental protection, which can be further modified to include bullet proof and explosion proof materials.
Unlike other forms of modular structures that have an outer skin that is aesthetically appealing, security booths and shelters require the same pleasing appearance but with resilience for protection against the elements and strength. The types of outer skins include fiberglass reinforced plastic, galvanized steel, and aluminum, which may be painted or decorated.
Although the outer skin may be made of highly durable metals or other resistant materials, the cores of the walls of security booths and shelters are normally various forms of light weight materials. Aside from being the central portion of security booth walls, the walls of a security booth form an insulated layer, which can have an R rating of R-13 or R-15 up to R ratings of R-19 or R-21.
The various elements of a sandwich wall are held together by a binding material that is applied to the inner side of the outer layer or layers such that they adhere to the core. Various types of adhesives are used to secure the layers to form a single bound unit that is used for the construction of a security booth and shelter.
Security booths have different window configurations depending on the design of the booth. Windows can be located on all sides, three sides, two sides, or one side. This aspect of their construction varies in accordance with the overall design of the structure. As with other aspects of a security booth, windows for security booths can take several forms including sliding, fixed, and solid. All of the different forms are heavy duty and weather stripped. Standard sliding windows are lockable, easy to open, and can come with a screen. Fixed windows cannot be opened, are weather stripped, and have a frame that is attached to the top of the wall panels. Solid windows are used with security booths that are placed against a wall and have limited visibility.
Windows are normally placed a set distance from the base of the booth’s exterior or 43 in (109.22 cm) from the floor of the booth’s interior. Although this is standard for most security booths, many customers require modifications to the placement of the windows to fit the conditions of a company's operation and requirements.
Glass for security booth and shelter windows is clear and tempered safety glass that offers increased protection from impacts, the elements, and thermal stress. The tempering process is a form of heat treatment that increases the strength of the glass and reduces the risk of breakage, which can produce dangerous fragments. The types of tints for security booth glass include gray, bronze, green, and blue, which are used to reduce glare, slow heat transfer, and keep the interior of the booth cool. For conditions that require that the interior of the both be kept hidden, reflective or mirror glass are used that makes it possible for security personnel to observe passersby without being seen.
There are various materials that are used to construct the roof of security booths. As the size of security booths increases, the strength and durability of the roof increases, which can include increasing the number of roof panels and the size of the overhang. Since the majority of security booths are located outside, roofing materials have to be able to withstand the effects of exposure to the environment, a factor that also influences the width of the overhang.
The normal overhang for a security booth or shelter is 24 in (60.96 cm) on each side of the booth depending on the booth’s design. Although 24 in overhangs are standard, customized overhangs can be added but may require extra supports. As with the windows of security booths and shelters, overhangs can be located on one, two, or three sides of the booth depending on the booth's design.
Ceiling grids take several forms and include corrugated steel, gasket grids and structural grids. Gasket grids are a flexible stick type grid that uses aluminum extrusions. They have the appearance of a set of rectangles or squares. Corrugated steel ceiling grids are sections of corrugated steel, which may include one or more sections depending on the size of the security booth. Along with corrugated steel, structural grids are used for security booths that have heavy items hanging from the grid. Structural grids include supports made of steel or high-quality aluminum.
The frame of a security booth and shelter is designed to ensure the booth’s durability and its ability to endure the elements as well as the stress of constant use. Since the frame supports the roof and walls of a security booth, it requires additional reinforcement beyond the metal used to produce the frame. In most cases, joints and welds are increased to ensure structural integrity. Although not a critical aspect of security booths and shelters, a variety of processes are used to give security booths and shelters a pleasing appearance, especially in cases where they are the first thing people see when they arrive at a location.
The type of frames for security booths and shelters varies in accordance with the purpose of the booth. This aspect of their structure includes simple booths that check inbound and outbound traffic to booths that are combat ready and capable of withstanding a frontal attack. The frame of a security booth allows for flexibility of design such that the booth can be adjusted and configured for any purpose. In the majority of cases, frames are made of steel or aluminum tubing that is welded.
The different types of walls are placed securely in the frame and joined with the other sections to form the booth. Although the framing is different then that which is used for buildings, it has the same form and shape as the structural components of permanent buildings.
The base of a security booth is the structure upon which the walls, frame, roof, equipment, and windows set. Bases can be permanently made of cement or be extensions of the frame. They can take the form of a pallet that makes it possible to move a security booth and shelter using a forklift. All forms of bases have to be sufficiently strong to be able to handle the weight of a security booth and its contents. The determination of the type of base is dependent on the use of a security booth and how permanent it is to be.
An unusual form of security booth and shelter are mobile ones that set on a trailer to provide mobility and make it possible to quickly place a security booth at any location. The frames of such forms of security booths have to be exceptionally resilient and sturdy. They are placed on a flat trailer bed and come in several forms. Depending on the requirements of a mobile security booth, they may have electrical hookups and wiring.
Steel and stainless security booths and shelters set on legs that are extensions of the frame. They have metal floors and sit a few inches off the ground. The positioning of the legs of such security booths makes it convenient for using a forklift to move them. Other types have long solid beams as their base for support with slots for a forklift.
Security booths and shelters that sit on concrete foundations are just as temporary as other modular security booths but require special equipment to move them since they sit flat on the concrete slab. In some instances, security booths that are mounted on concrete slabs may be connected to the slabs by bolts. This type tends to be more permanent but still have the same mobility as other forms of booths.
Although there are standard designs for security booths and shelters, in many cases, manufacturers work with clients to design security booths to fit the requirements of special circumstances, such as positioning, location, weather conditions, and the types of security measures. Military and government security booths follow a strict set of guidelines that are outlined in DoD MilCon directives.
There is an endless number of security booths and shelters due to the many uses and conditions where they are needed. The main determining factor regarding security booths is the nature of the work that is performed by the security staff, which can range from armed confrontations to simply greeting workers. The level of security determines the type and construction of security booths and the needed equipment.
Many organizations require an electronic login of any person who enters a location. This can take the form of entry logs where a person is required to present identification and enter data into a company’s computer system. In the modern era, this level of security has become common and widely used. An increase in electronics changes the structure of a security booth and requires access to VGA, DVI, and HDMI cables.
In its simplest form, a security booth is an enclosure that is designed for security personnel. It is where security officers can observe and monitor the comings and goings of persons that are connected to an organization and prevent the entry or monitor the entry of individuals outside the organization but have business with the organization.
Although simple security booths do not have many of the amenities associated with more complex security booths, they normally have a chair, flat surface, and some form of storage container for convenience. Regardless of being the most basic of security booths, simple security booths come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes to meet the requirements of a location or position.
The many forms and shapes of simple security booths are standard and can be quickly installed in any location. Their lack of complexity makes it easy to purchase them and have them delivered. Since they do not require explosive proof, bullet proof, or other forms of high strength materials, they can easily be repositioned for multiple functions.
Blast and fire-resistant security booths provide the highest level of safety and protection for security personnel. They are designed to withstand the most dire of circumstances including violent blasts. Blast and fire-resistant security booths are commonly found on military bases, at government facilities, and high-risk locations.
All vulnerable areas of a blast and fire-resistant security booth are protected, including seams, gaps, windows, and wall junctions. The exterior is covered with structural pieces that are capable of withstand a direct blast using multilayers of materials. Blast and fire-resistant security booths are ballistic rated for conditions where there is a danger to security personnel. The booths are assembled offsite and delivered as a completed building.
Blast and fire-resistant security booths have a firm foundation due to their weight, which is normally a slab of concrete. They come in a variety of shapes with a full supply of technical equipment. Blast and fire-resistant security booths normally have room for several occupants, a factor that makes them larger than a typical security booth.
Mobile security booths provide extra flexibility for the positioning and placement of security personnel. They can be temporary short or long term or be permanent solutions for isolated locations. As with all forms of security booths, mobile security booths take several forms. They can be simple booths or be complex ones with technical electronics and wiring. For extreme conditions, mobile security booths can come with a generator to provide electricity.
Additional features of mobile security booths can include HVAC systems, work stations, lights, control systems, and other amenities depending on their permanence and the nature of the work to be performed. The only difference between mobile security booths and other forms of security booths is the trailer upon which they sit.
Like mobile security booths, portable security booths can easily be moved to a variety of locations. Although they are portable, they are not mounted on wheels but are moved by forklifts or other methods. Portable security booths are lightweight, a factor that makes them easy to transport. Their modular compact design makes it possible to have all of the necessary equipment for the operation of the booth located in the booth to be connected to any source of power.
Portable security booths take several forms with the most common form being small and compact for one or two security personnel. The ease of transport of portable security booths makes it possible to locate them at special events, construction sites, parking lots, and other temporary situations where security is required.
The design of portable security booths makes it possible to adapt security measures to meet unique and unusual conditions as well as the flexibility to change, manage, and adapt to various security conditions. This factor removes the need to commit to permanent security structures when they are not needed.
An unusual form of security booth is a fiberglass security booth, which are easy to set up and move, are highly durable, and can endure a wide variety of climatic conditions. They have a solid base and are well protected to ensure the comfort of personnel. As with all forms of security booths, fiberglass security booths come in several sizes with various sizes capable of single occupancy up to occupancy by three individuals.
The walls of fiberglass security booths are made of double walled reinforced polyester fiberglass. As with other forms of security booths, the walls of fiberglass security booths have a core that is normally polyurethane foam, which is used on all sides of the booth. Window frames are normally aluminum that can hold different forms of glass, which can be tinted for extra protection.
Stand mounted security booths are elevated on a platform to provide greater visibility. They have all of the necessary security equipment including computers, phones, electricity, and other necessary devices. Stand mounted security booths can be portable and mobile or permanent depending on the type of security service being provided. The stand for a stand mounted security booth is made of steel to be able to support the weight of the security booth and to provide stability.
Entry to a stand mounted security booth is by steps that are attached to the booth and its platform. For safety reasons, the steps have open treads, toe guards, and a protective finish with handrails. The platform and steps are bolted to a concrete base or some other form of secure surface. Anchoring is necessary to avoid having the security booth shift or tip during harsh weather conditions.
As with all forms of security booths and shelters, stand mounted security booths can be customized to fit security requirements. This particular aspect of their construction is common since every security situation is unique. Security booth manufacturers work closely with clients to design stand mounted security booths that fit a client’s special needs.
The six security booths and shelters that are described above are a small sampling of the many types of security booths that are available. In most cases, manufacturers work with clients to develop specially designed security booths to fit a specific set of circumstances since the size, type, and nature of each security situation varies. As companies get larger and develop more valuable assets, they require tighter security and more resilient security equipment, which includes the types of security booths and shelters.
The selection process for security booths and shelters begins with the nature of the business that is being protected. This aspect of the selection process relates directly to assets and individuals. The most elaborate and expansive security measures are in regard to government locations that have critical information in the national interest. These high security sites are followed by government contractors and large corporations.
The next part of the security booth selection process involves the safety of personnel since some facilities may be protecting manufacturing processes that are volatile. For those situations, the level of security is higher as well as the structure of the security booths that are used.
Ballistic security booths, bullet proof security booths, are rated by the National Institute of Justice in regard to the type of weaponry that can damage the booth, which ranges from small caliber handguns up to high powered rifles. The term bullet proof is inaccurate in that no type of material is completely bullet proof and will eventually be damaged by gun fire. The ballistic rating of a security booth increases its cost and is a significant aspect of the selection process.
Although bullet proof security booths are a consideration, most security booths are non-bullet proof, which are more affordable than ballistic security booths. These are durable, strong, and long-lasting booths that fit the appearance and décor of a location. Non-bullet proof security booths normally have shatter proof glass and are weather resistant for the protection of personnel. They come in a wide variety of sizes with ones that have room for one or two occupants being the most common.
A security booth and shelter should be durable enough to withstand local weather conditions. In the United States, there is a great deal of difference between security booths for Arizona, where air conditioning is required, and Minnesota, where heating is a necessity. In addition, consideration has to be given to local threats that can vary according to the location and type of business being protected. The most important factor is longevity. For a security booth to be a viable investment, it has to be capable of enduring local conditions for an extended period of time.
All organizations require security booths and shelters that fit operational specifications and aesthetic appeal. Security booths are normally the first thing that people see when visiting a company. It is important that personnel and the security booth have the proper appearance to present the appropriate image for a company. Manufacturers work with clients to ensure that the booth that is created gives the correct impression. Custom features include bathrooms, HVAC system, generators, technology integration, desks, chairs, and various types of lighting.
As with any aspect of business, budgetary concerns dictate the type and kind of security booth that will be purchased. The one caveat is the level of security and the potentiality of hazards, which can increase the cost of a security booth. Conditions where there is the potential for explosions or weapons fire necessitate a greater investment in the type of security booth, a factor that cannot be avoided.
Regardless of the size of security booths and their mobility, they must be built and installed in accordance with local building codes, zoning laws, and industry standards. Manufacturers contact local government agencies to acquire the proper permits and approvals prior to the installation of a modular security booth.
During the selection process, it is necessary to assess the nature of the work that a security booth will perform. The primary determination is whether the security both will be permanently located or will need to be mobile to adapt to varying requirements and conditions. The gamut of security booths and shelters covers a long list of different security booths that can be easily relocated to meet the changing needs of an organization. The factors that influence the relocation of a security booth are its portability, ease of installation, and the procedures necessary for dismantling it.
Security booths and shelters are modular structures that are manufactured to provide alternatives to permanent security booths and allow for flexible placement to adapt to changing circumstances and conditions. The use of modular security booths and shelters includes a wide array of situations from high security locations that necessitate exceptional protection to security for shopping malls and parking lots. The flexibility and adaptability of security booths and shelters has made them a popular method for the protection of people and security personnel.
The main use of security booths and shelters for industrial locations is to control the entry of personnel. Security personnel check ID badges or ID cards to ensure that people who are entering a location have the right to do so. This type of security booth is the simplest and most common form of security and is widely used for every industry in the world.
The use of security booths and shelters for construction sites takes two forms. As with industrial security booths, security personnel check IDs to ensure that workers who are entering the property have the right to be there. In addition, security personnel at construction sites log the entry and exit of trucks and supply vehicles to determine the amount of time the vehicles spend on site. Security booths and shelters at construction sites record and store data for the examination of management.
Security booths for airports require a higher level of security due to the sensitive and critical aspects of air travel. Modular security booths and shelters are positioned in several locations throughout airports where personnel, packages, luggage, and any suspicious situation is closely checked. Security booths are manned with highly trained personnel that record every incident, situation, and circumstance for the protection of airport personnel and passengers.
For many years, special events were casual entertainment that had security personnel available to react to disagreements and injuries. Over the years and in the modern era, security booths have been upgraded at such events to provide close observation of crowds and any suspicious activity. As with airports, security booths and shelters are positioned in multiple locations to provide immediate response.
Security booths and shelters for government facilities are of the highest level and include ballistic or bullet proof security booths. Security for government buildings has rapidly risen in recent years to include security booths and shelters that have the capabilities of being bomb shelters for the most extreme and dangerous situations. Manufacturers work closely with government security personnel to design and develop security booths that offer protection and safety using the standards that are specified by the DoD MilCon documents.
The basic function of all forms of security booths is to monitor and oversee the entrance and exit of personnel and vehicles. Security booths provide a comfortable and accessible location for security personnel to carry out their duties, such as recording unusual entries, directions for employees, guidance, and management and control of groups. They are the front line and central point of security for an organization and are equipped with surveillance equipment, barriers, electronic recording devices, and blockades.
Throughout history, security booths and shelters have served as checkpoints for monitoring and controlling the entry of individuals to filter out people who do not belong. Aside from checking credentials, security personnel examine packages, vehicles, materials, and suspicious circumstances for the protection of employees and the organization.
Most security booths have cameras, recorders, computers, and other monitoring equipment that make observing, recording, and monitoring of activities an easy method for identifying possible infractions or strange behaviors.
The visibility and presence of security booths and shelters tends to deter the activities of intruders, unauthorized personnel, or the possibility of security breaches. In many ways, the appearance of security booths gives the impression of strength and protection.
As any security officer can tell you, security functions can be tedious and tiring. The hours are long and vigilance is necessary. It is for these reasons that security booth manufacturers provide shelter and a comfortable accommodation for security personnel such that they can perform their duties in a secure and protected environment.
Phones, two-way radios, computers, alarms, sensors, and other forms of security devices are connected to security booths such that they can alert area personnel regarding perimeter breaches or illegal entries. All security departments have a set of protocols they use in the event of any form of security situation, which are communicated through a security booth that can serve as a security hub.
One of the most tedious and necessary aspects of security work is the recording and documenting of exits and entries through the use of computer assisted logs. Security personnel provide visitor badges and direction to visiting and new personnel. Each aspect of a security operation has to be recorded for later examination. Security booths provide a convenient and organized location for record keeping and entry.
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