Perimeter Security Details
Wednesday, April 21, 2010 11:00
In my last article, I wrote about the importance of padlocks and gates. I also mentioned that chain link fences do not really provide good security for a storage yard or lot. In most situations, metal fence type barriers (such as in the pictures) provide better security than chain link fences. The pictures show a good security solution for protecting huge equipment tires but would provide no real security if you were trying to protect smaller stored items or against someone trying to steal parts from your equipment or vehicles. Always choose a security solution that will fit your needs and provide adequate security for what you are trying to protect.
Security Details
Even when something is built to specifically to protect a certain area, security can be defeated if attention is not paid to details. If you look at the second picture, you will see a close-up of the latch and padlock used to secure the entrance gate to the storage yard. The bolt on the right-hand side of the latch is secured with a nut. To really provide adequate security, the bolt and nut should be welded so the bolt and nut cannot be easily removed from that side of the latch. Also, the padlock should be a more secure padlock with shackle protection or no shackle, similar to the round padlock shown in the last 
picture. Finally, the bolts used to secure the hinges on the gate are not secured, meaning that you could remove them with a wrench. In this case, I would recommend that the bolt and nut be welded together to prevent removal without cutting through the bolt.
Principles of Security
Remember that, even with attention to details, the perimeter barrier simply slows a criminal down which is just one of the main principles of security. You also need to have 
some type of system in place that will notify someone that the criminal is on the premises and trying to break into your storage yard. Lastly, you need to have an adequate response which usually means depending on the local police department. Without including all three principles of security, no matter how well you secure the metal fence barrier, sooner or later someone will bypass the security you have in place.
If you have other ideas or questions related to the topic in this article, please leave a comment.
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Susan Doyle says:
April 21st, 2010 at 8:37 PM
Consider adding a fence inside a fence, like the Electric Guard Dog. It works better than cameras alone. At the company web site, http://www.electricguarddog.com, Customers say having Electric Guard Dog has stopped theft from happening at their site. Also, Electric Guard Dog adapts to the topography of the site, and can be put along the roof line. Remember that recent news story of the thieves who cut into the roof of the pharmaceutical warehouse? Alarms did not go off and the cameras did not pick up anything. Combine a safe but effective electric perimeter security with existing security electronics, that are monitored. Covers all the bases. Disclaimer: I am employed for the advertising and marketing arm of this company. I have seen the set up at a used auto parts place in NC.The guys there said they were very happy with it. Also,it’s a lot better looking than running barbed or razor wire. Plus, its solar powered. Always on regardless if there is a power failure.
Sean says:
April 22nd, 2010 at 11:35 AM
A fence inside a fence is another option. What type of fencing material and perimeter alarm system you select is critical and must fit the needs of your particular business operation. There is always more than one solution to a security problem. Sometimes the tough issue is determining what is the best solution for your business.
Jon Copping says:
July 30th, 2010 at 10:41 AM
I like this article as it points out that there are potentially a number of weaknesses in physical security solutions. I have seen lots of examples where a robust fence and gate system have been installed but rendered as next to useless by things like bolted on hinges etc. which would be very easy to undo by anyone wanting to gain access.
It is very important to utilise the best available securtiy solutions, which are often just common sense but all too often overlooked. For example tamper and vandal proof fixings and correct housing for the locking system.
We at Arbantia Fencing – http://www.arbantia-fencing.co.uk believe that these often overlooked but simple security measures are why physical security measures can sometimes fail.