CSS Total Security - Security fences remain front line of defence

Despite the obvious benefits of security alarms and closed circuit TV cameras, security fencing remains the first and best line of defence against intruders.

A fence constructed from heavy gauge materials and designed from the ground up to resist attacks, will dramatically reduce or even eliminate crimes against school property. Some large schools are currently facing annual glaziers’ bills of more than Ł50,000 to repair vandalism damage, and in that context a high-quality security fence will pay for itself within one year.

The key elements to a genuinely secure fence are the weight of the metal used and a design which resists tampering and assault. In particular, bolts or screws which are easily accessible or the presence of openings which can allow a crowbar to be used against palings will make a fence easier to penetrate.

Because of the importance of security fencing, the Government has introduced a British Standard for palisade fencing – BS 1722-12 – and anyone concerned with protecting school properties or other public facilities should ensure that the fencing used meets this standard. The Police Force has also recognised the importance of high-quality security fencing by introducing its own accreditation, Secure by Design.

Fences that meet these two standards may cost more than other fences, but that is because they will do the job. A fence that costs less, does less. However, a fence which meets these standards will quickly pay for itself by reducing or eliminating vandalism, ensuring that the country’s massive investment in new school buildings is kept safe and secure.