gateman

A gateman is a person employed to guard a gate and regulate entry to a facility, property, or event. The term is commonly used for security personnel who control access at a gatehouse, entrance, or barrier, and may be used interchangeably with gatekeeper, security guard, or doorman depending on the setting.

Gateman duties typically include verifying identities, checking passes or credentials, and logging visitors and vehicle traffic. They may issue temporary passes, provide directions, enforce parking rules, and direct pedestrians and vehicles to appropriate routes. In workplaces such as factories and logistics centers, gatemen also monitor restricted areas, inspect incoming deliveries, and report security incidents or safety hazards to supervisors or security teams. Some roles involve monitoring surveillance cameras, operating gate controls, and coordinating with adjacent security staff or police in emergencies.

The work environment for a gateman varies by location. Gatemen may work outdoors or at a gatehouse, often on shifts that cover evenings, nights, weekends, or holidays. The position is generally considered entry level within the security sector, requiring basic training in security procedures, first aid, and fire safety. Depending on the jurisdiction, employers may require certification, a background check, or a security license, along with good communication skills and the ability to de-escalate conflicts.

Gatemanship has roots in historic gatekeeping, but modern gatemen operate within formal security frameworks emphasizing access control, safety, and customer service. While automation can handle some gate functions, human gatemen remain common in residential complexes, commercial properties, transportation hubs, and event venues to manage entry and respond to incidents.

See also: security guard, gatekeeper, doorman.