Distribution Centres: Why You Need A Secure Perimeter
Shopping online has been something that has been growing in popularity, however, in March 2020, COVID-19 forced non-essential retail outlets to close temporarily, causing many shoppers to opt for home delivery for both essential and non-essential items.
This puts pressure on distribution centres as the value of products being sent out has increased as we’ve put greater trust in our postal and delivery services.
With this in mind, do distribution centres need a secure perimeter to protect their people, items and reputation?
High-Security Fencing Gives People Confidence
People will have more confidence in distribution channels if the sites responsible for handling their items looks secure.
On the other hand, if they don’t look secure and an opportunist attacker spies a chance. The perimeter will fail on the first of the 5 D’s of perimeter security; to deter an attack. If the attacker perceives that the chances of getting caught are lower than the risk and value they may gain, they may take a chance.
A successful attack could cause significant disruption, items could also be lost or delayed reaching the customer.
If the customer learns of a break-in, or if their parcels are late or lost, the reputation of the distributor will be damaged. For this reason, we would advise you to look into an independently tested fence system to secure a distribution centre handling valuable items.
LPS 1175 from the LPCB is an ideal certification for the commercial market to use. It is easy to understand and apply as the accreditation works in a matrix system where you can choose the threat level and the delay you need to create.
If you would like to speak to the LPCB directly for more information you can contact Richard Flint, technical and commercial lead for physical security.
Typically distribution centres opt for LPS 1175 A1 (SR1) or B3 (SR2). LPS 1175 A1 would prevent an opportunist attacker using bodily force and basic tools from gaining access for more than 60 seconds.
LPS 1175 B3 would deter an experienced attacker from using instruments with a larger mechanical advantage, such as bolt cutters, claw hammers, and drills, for more than three minutes.
Ensuring Your Tested Fencing System Is Future Proof
When it comes to security infrastructure for your distribution centre it’s best if you invest in a long-term solution, as opposed to the cheapest one. If items are lost, damaged, or stolen, you’ll be liable for those goods. Not only that but your customer will lose confidence and perceive you as unreliable.
There will be a price difference between a standard boundary fence and a tested solution, but there is also a value to peace of mind and your reputation.
Protect Your Distribution Centre
Whether to use palisade or mesh fencing is one of the most common questions we get asked, regardless of the context.
There are significant differences between palisade and mesh fencing that go beyond aesthetics, contrary to common opinion.
Mesh Security Fencing
Mesh fencing can be difficult to install on uneven ground. This is because the panels are rigid and inflexible. As a result, when approaching uneven surfaces, the fence will need to be burrowed in the ground and eventually stepped, slowing down installation and increasing project costs. It also typically requires 10% more posts, which means 10% more holes to be dug.
Palisade Security Fencing
One of palisade fencing’s main advantages for distribution centres is its daunting aspect, however, in a built-up or residential area, this may be seen as a disadvantage and may not be given planning permission Individuals are discouraged from climbing the high-security fence because they are easily caught or impaled on the triple or single-pointed pale design.
Standard palisade has received some flack in the last few years after videos circulated to show how quickly it could be breached. However, security variants have been designed to mitigate the weak point.
The videos below show a comparison of an attack test on standard palisade and StronGuard SR2.
Conclusion
When it comes to security infrastructure for your distribution centre you need to think long-term rather than short-term that’s driven by price and also consider the value of a secure site.
After all, the risks of a security breach in a distribution centre could exceed any initial investment.
To find out more about security fencing for your distribution centre, get in touch today.
Or simply call 01782 319264 to speak to an expert today.
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