Security mantraps were invented in the 16th century, and were small mechanical devices used by landowners to catch poachers and trespassers.  Today, a security mantrap is commonly described as a small room, area or compartment that is designed to temporarily hold (trap) an individual between two doors (barriers) so that their credentials can be verified before granting access. 

 

Despite their widespread use, security mantraps are not referenced by either the International Building Code (IBC) or the Life Safety Code (LSC/NFPA 101), which has resulted in a plethora of terms and definitions, including, for example: security portals, security vestibules, security airlocks, security booths, security cabins, control vestibules, and personnel interlocks.   

 

A security mantrap may be manual or automatic, manned or unmanned, pre-engineered or built from the ground up, located indoors or outdoors, and include a variety of technologies to enhance security, safety, aesthetics, throughput, service, and overall performance.  The systems come in various sizes, shapes, styles and configurations with a multitude of finishes, glazing and door options, including ballistic and vandal resistant.  Other options and features include: metal/weapons detection, left object detection, tailgating/piggybacking detection, monoblock construction, wall mount versions, wheel chair accessibility, network interface capabilities, video cameras, intercoms, anti-passback integration, biometrics, fire alarm integration, emergency pushbuttons, manual releases, battery backup, remote operation, fail-safe/fail-secure operation, and inputs/outputs for control, alarm monitoring, and business intelligence.  

 

Security mantraps can also provide an attractive entrance, energy efficiency, and may be deployed without guard supervision providing an ROI in roughly 1 year.  Prior to design and construction, a security risk assessment should be completed to insure performance objectives are understood, and form, fit and function can be achieved. 

 

Let us help you design and install your next security mantrap.  We have experience with many types and configurations and will help you identify and select the best model for your application.  We understand the design and construction process and will work with all stakeholders to insure the project is properly managed from start to finish.  Working with a specialty consultant for customized and complex openings like revolving doors is money well spent and likely to be a money saver when you consider what can go wrong when you have a multiple stakeholders with competing interests.    

 

We are experts in building codes and means of egress analysis, as well as accessibility considerations, product technologies, construction techniques, and customized solutions.  We understand what can and cannot be done and at what cost.  We know installation practices, commissioning, testing and preventive maintenance.  We have experience with each of the following door types and welcome the opportunity to work with your team to deliver the optimum solution for your secure entry point.