Physical Security Solutions at a Data Centre in the West Midlands

Project Overview

Client
Data Centre

Location
West Midlands

Date Complete
2022

Sector
Utilities

Background

We often discuss how Jacksons Fencing is a solutions provider, but what does this actually mean? This project for a data centre in the West Midlands should help to demonstrate the services we can source and provide for you, whether it’s a small installation or large development with extensive works.

The need for data storage increases every year to cope with the demand of our growing population, and security is critical to satisfy privacy regulations and prevent loss of information, as well as protect against espionage and terrorism. With demand rising for a West Midlands data centre, Jacksons was appointed to carry out the installation of fencing, gates, access control and automation, to create a strong perimeter security solution. The data centre in the West Midlands is situated on a large, multi-occupancy green field site, with leisure properties nearby.

Jacksons had previously provided secure internal compounds as protection for sensitive areas at this site using our Barbican® Defender Xtreme System. Because of the past effectiveness of this, the Data Centre owners didn’t hesitate to ask Jacksons to provide the same for a complete perimeter solution following the development of other plots adjacent to the site.

Groundworks and physical security preparation

To prepare the ground and make space to facilitate the installation, a number of trees and shrubs had to be removed and the grounds made level. New saplings were planted on a 1:1 basis to replace those removed.

Correct preparation is key to ensuring installations are safe and no utilities are disrupted when digging. To guard against potential incidents, we undertook a full underground radar survey of the fence and gate install area (GPRS). As part of a turnkey solution, new mains power was connected to the locations requiring a supply for automation equipment.

Whilst these services can of course be provided by separate companies, this often leads to miscommunication, subsequent errors, and delays, as schedules need to align to find suitable times for all parties. Choosing Jacksons to project manage, organise, and complete all works removes the middleman and puts the responsibility on us. Established in 1947, Jacksons Fencing has years of experience and expertise dealing with projects of all sizes; we’re proud that we’ve built trust with countless returning customers.

Fence and access control installation

Once all the groundworks were completed, it was time to start installing the fencing and gates. To secure the perimeter, we installed 296m of 2.5m high Barbican® Defender Xtreme fencing. This vertical bar fence design with its cranked pales provides a strong anti-climb solution without the need for hostile and intimidating barbed tape or spikes, meaning it complied with complicated and detailed local planning regulations. Like our other vertical bar fencing, it features a welded pale-through-rail construction with tamper-proof fixings and concealed, anti-vandal panel to post connectors. These design features create a strong and secure fence with a smart appearance, creating a welcoming appearance for clients and staff while securing the site against unauthorised access. Manufactured from tubular steel which is hot dip galvanised, the fencing is strong and light making installation and transportation easier. The fencing was Secured by Design approved and LPS 1175 A1 certified, providing protection against opportunistic attacks, having passed the test devised by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (LPCB) and carried out by BRE. To achieve this security rating our fencing had to delay several attacks using category A tools.

To complete the full perimeter solution a number of complementary gates were installed, including a 6m wide automated double leaf Bi-Folding Speed Gate with traffic lights to provide safe and efficient access and traffic control. Two dual-height access control posts were installed. The integrated entry/exit system uses audio/video intercoms and keypads/card reader systems at both car and lorry heights. All our gate automation is CE marked and installed by our own engineers who are trained to a minimum of DHF level 2.

In addition to the automated gate, we also installed four manually operated 1.2m wide single-leaf gates, two with keyed entry and emergency push pads on the secure side of the gate for emergency exit. The other two gates have self closers and magnetic locks with shrouded exit push buttons, and entry via a card reader system, with the disability designated gate also having a two-way audio intercom with keypad. These were fully integrated into the existing Fire & Security System.

To create a secure pedestrian entrance and to delay access, we installed a 180° full height turnstile with two way audio intercom and keypad for entry, and shrouded push-button for exit. Again, this was fully integrated into the existing Fire & Security System.

In addition to the fencing and gate installations, our team also landscaped the front area by removing vegetation and laying paving to create a path between the reception area and front gates.

The fencing, gates, and turnstile were all polyester powder coated in green RAL 6005, for a long-lasting, durable finish which helps to prevent corrosion. All products are supplied with our 25 year service life guarantee as standard. We are the only manufacturer that backs up our products with this 25 year guarantee which not only provides peace of mind but also contributes towards added sustainability.

Products Used

Product

  • 296m of 2.5m high LPS 1175 A1 rated Barbican Defender Xtreme fencing
  • Bi-folding speed gate
  • 4 single leaf gates
  • Full height pedestrian turnstile
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