What is a Mantrap in Access Control?

Building owners concerned about unauthorized visitors should understand what a mantrap access control system is. Despite the name, the primary function of these systems is not to capture intruders. Instead, they’re a two-stage security device that regulates movement in restricted areas. For organizations that need to protect sensitive data and high-value assets, they provide an almost impenetrable barrier to trespassing and unlawful entry.

How Mantraps Work

Mantraps consist of a vestibule with two interlocking doors, similar to an airlock. Individuals enter and wait for the first door to lock behind them before presenting their credentials for authentication. Once their identity has been verified, either by a security guard or an automated terminal, the second door unlocks so they can exit. On the other hand, if authentication fails, the second door remains shut.

Owners can decide whether failure triggers a lockdown or simply prevents entry. In the event of a lockdown, both the exit and entry doors bolt shut, detaining the unauthorized individual until the police or security personnel can arrive and take them into custody. Under normal circumstances, however, the first door is only locked from the outside, so the person is free to leave the way they came. This is a necessary feature, mandated by the fire code, guaranteeing that in the event of an emergency or fire alarm, the person inside can safely evacuate.

Advantages of a Mantrap Door System

Though installing a mantrap is expensive and time-consuming, as a security solution, it offers several long-term advantages that offset its costs.

• Controlled Entry. Besides providing an additional layer of physical security, the interlocking doors ensure no one enters your facility without strict verification. By regulating entry into your building, mantraps allow you to carefully monitor traffic into sensitive areas, giving you more time to assess potential threats and detect suspicious activity.
• Prevents Piggybacking and Tailgating. One weakness of turnstiles and other security portals is they allow unauthorized persons to infiltrate your building by following closely behind an authorized individual. Because their small space can only accommodate one person at a time, mantraps guarantee no one enters without proper credentials.
• Customizable. Mantraps are compatible with all types of access control systems, including key cards, keypads, RFID readers, and biometric scanners. They can even be integrated with additional security controls, such as cameras and metal detectors. What’s more, they can be set up for single or multi-factor authentication in order to meet your specific organizational needs.

In addition to detecting unauthorized access, mantraps also help deter it. The intricate security measures present such a serious obstacle that many intruders are dissuaded from trying.

Where Are Mantrap Systems Deployed?

Because of the costs associated with them, mantraps are normally found in locations containing highly valuable assets or information. These include:

• Government Buildings
• Data Centers
• Research Facilities
• Hospitals
• Pharmaceutical Labs
• Banks and Financial Institutions
• Airports
• Corporate Offices
• University Campuses
• Museums
• Art Galleries
• Jewelry Stores

Mantraps are also used in clean rooms, though not just for security. By controlling the entry process, they create a buffer zone that helps preserve the sterile environment. In many instances, the mantrap doubles as a gowning area, where employees don protective equipment, preventing them from compromising the integrity of the room with dirt, dust, and other contaminants after they step inside.

Maintenance and Service

Because of their relative complexity, mantraps require reliable support in order to function. Locks, doors, sensors, electronic readers, and monitoring software all need to be periodically inspected and calibrated, to ensure the system operates smoothly.

Vortex technicians are trained to identify problems early, before they lead to a serious malfunction. Regular inspections allow us to repair and replace worn components in order to avoid a breakdown, so your security perimeter remains as strong as possible at all times. Don’t let problems catch you off guard. Contact us today to schedule your inspection.