Your Local Service Center:
Vortex Logo

What is a Mantrap Door System?

May 21, 2014 | Security & Safety

Mantrap door systems are specialized doors used primarily for security purposes. Basically is is a small, enclosed vestibule with two sets of interlocking doors. Typically, one door cannot be opened without the other being shut or locked.

Purpose

The main purpose of a mantrap door is security. These types of doors have actually been in existence for quite some time, dating back to the middle ages. Visitors would enter into a gated space through one door while their were credentials were reviewed prior to gaining access to the main area. While the concept pretty much holds true to this day, the technology has obviously improved.

Another purpose of a mantrap door is to create a “clean room”. This applies to companies in pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and other industries that deal with chemicals. This is to ensure that any harmful materials do not exit the restricted area.

Types of Authorization

Today, we don’t need an armored guard to check credentials, even though in some instances it is still used. Technology has provided mantrap systems with authorization access tools such as swipe cards, retina scans, and even more advanced techniques.

The vast majority of corporations and businesses use some form of swipe or key card entry. They are simple, secure, and quite a bit less pricey than something like a retina scan. Your business probably won’t need quite that level of sophistication unless you have highly classified information or are in need of a “clean room”.

Everyday Life

Want to see an example of a mantrap door in real life? They are a lot more common than you think. Head over to your local bank and witness one first hand. You’ll notice that you have to enter through two sets of doors before actually stepping into the bank.

In fact, a lot of banks place ATMs inside the first set of doors. During the off-hours you are required to swipe your debit card and provide your pin in order to gain access to the ATM. The interior set of doors are locked during these off-hours.

For more information about man trap door systems, contact Vortex Doors or give us a call at 800-698-6783.

Want to SHARE this?

Fully Certified & Accredited Commercial Door Experts

IDEA logo
ISN RAVS Plus Participant Logo
America's Top 100 Most Loved Workplaces 2025
Newsweek most loved 2024
AAADM logo
NFPA logo
Avetta logo

What Our Customers Are Saying

Excellent
Mimi M.
Daniel came out to help us today with some door issues we were having! He went above and beyond! Really appreciated how thorough the work we received was and excellent communication and customer service! Highly recommend
John
Just want to take a minute and thank our install Technician Wes w/ Vortex doors. A true professional who installed keyless system for our office. Wes did an exceptional job and meticulously ensured that he left our front lobby cleaner than when he arrived. Could not be happier with this portion of the install!
Daryn V.
Exceptional customer service and very knowledgeable service team member in supporting building door repairs and services. Would recommend Chris Gomez as the “go to” guy for your needs.
Terry F.
I called Vortex this morning, provided my company's information and address. The receptionist who answered was polite and told me a tech would call on there Arrival, to which Vincent did. I met with Vincent outside, clean and professional appearance in both himself and vehicle. I explained the issues with both the gate and bay door. Vincent quickly assessed the problem, suggested some technical expertise and resolved the problem quickly. Now my business can go back to normal operation safely. Thank you Vincent and Vortex for your quick and professional service.
Madison R.
Nigel and Kevin have always done a wonderful and prompt job on our doors. We appreciate them and their hard work.
Christopher S.
Andy does phenomenal work! I greatly appreciate his due diligence, level of professionalism and his high attention to detail. He's worked on site several occasions and I am completely satisfied with his work. Good quality doors, should last if maintained well. Will use again.
Carlos-Angelo R.
Jeff Johnson and Jesus collazo are great technicians, we appreciate them fixing our problems.
Myra S.
Thank you for sending out Paz and Craig to the site. They were super courteous and professional.

Update: Ismael and Erick were here today and were super courteous and very thorough with all the work orders. Thanks Vortex for sending these amazing techs.

Myra S.
Marcos M.
Anthony did a really good job and explained what the issue was and help get it fixed for us to get through until estimate is approved.. great job Anthony
Vortex Doors - since 1937

Perfect service, incredibly fast.

Please call us at (800) 698-6783 for 24/7 customer support.

Contact Us