An Architect's Perspective of Designing and Implementing Automated ELBC
At dormakaba, we collaborate with a variety of partners to deliver exceptional security products and services. Recently, we asked one of our valued partners, Brad Sucher, Senior Architect at Gresham Smith, to share his unique perspective on exit lanes and why they matter to his clients. Over the past several years, dormakaba and Gresham Smith have implemented exit lane solutions at airports from Charlottesville, Virginia to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Below are some of the highlights from our conversation.
Why are more clients making ELBC part of their airport renovation plans?
The issue came to the forefront a few years ago when the TSA notified airports that they would no longer staff exit lanes. Taking on that responsibility has pressed airports of all sizes to analyze the cost-benefit of ELBC versus traditional security guards. One thing that dormakaba has done an excellent job of is providing the data to demonstrate the return on investment that comes from this technology. When you consider the removal of human error and the cost efficiency of the solution, ELBC is a smart choice.
As an architect, you know how one change can impact an entire space. What are some of the design challenges you face and how do address them?
A majority of the solutions that we have been a part of have been retrofits, meaning we’ve had to work with existing space. The solution has to fit the size, scale, and needs of the particular airport. For example, in Charlottesville, it was a single lane that was replaced adjacent to their checkpoint whereas, in Fort Lauderdale, there are various solutions for each one of their terminals. We are in the process of planning and developing solutions for Charlotte, which is a very large campus with multiple exits. Just as important, we bring all of the stakeholders to the table, from the airport staff to maintenance, to understand how the technology will be implemented and operated. Every detail is considered.
How does dormakaba, Gresham Smith, and the airport work together to ensure that ELBC is a success?
First, before we propose a solution, we make sure we understand all of the challenges. We study everything from the passenger types to the circulation routes within the airport. By thoroughly understanding the needs of the stakeholders and end-users, we can put our expertise to work to create the perfect ELBC solution. To learn more about Automated Exit Lane Breach Control from dormakaba, click here.
