March 20, 2023
To: All Gated Communities and Access Controlled Facilities
RE: Knox Gate Access Upgrade – IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED
Dear Sir/Madam,
Recently, the Cobb County and Marietta Fire Departments have undertaken an initiative to increase the security and reliability of our life safety access system. The Fire Code requires buildings to provide a key box and maintain current keys for all buildings and/or tenants where a fire alarm or fire sprinkler system are installed. At no cost to building owners, the existing Knox boxes installed on buildings throughout the City, have recently been upgraded to a new and more secure locking mechanism. The cost of the upgraded E-lock technology was completely covered by the City of Marietta Fire Department.
Access through gates will require a modification from the previously approved Knox gate switch product to the new Knox gate box and switch. Just as in the requirement to provide access to buildings, the Fire Code also requires security gates across fire department access roads to be maintained according to the specifications of the fire code. While we regret passing this burden on to our neighbors, we think you’ll agree the increased security and reliability of this new system is worth the investment.
The upgraded Knox Gate Box and Switch are now available for purchase, only through VSC, using the [supplied] form. The replacement product for the model 3502, Gate Switch, is model 3261MUG, Knox Gate Box with Gate Switch. Once received, and installed, please notify us and the fire department will upgrade the mechanical keyway to the new electronic keyway at no additional cost (savings of $252 per access box). To ensure there are no delays accessing your property, please act immediately to order the upgraded devices.
If the upgraded box is not ordered by April 28, 2023, this special ordering process will close and the full cost of ordering the new box and e-core will be on the property owner. If the new gate switch is not installed by May 12, 2023, the Fire Marshal’s Office will require the gate be secured in the open position.
Please feel free to call our office at (770) 794-5466, with any questions.