Government buildings, military bases, transportation facilities, stadiums, and correctional institutions all have one thing in common—the need for advanced security. Having a secure perimeter is essential to guard the facility and grounds against trespassers, criminals, and wild animals. In the case of prisons and other correctional facilities, a safe perimeter is needed to contain possible escapees. Keeping facilities safe and protected with an anti-climb security fence is at the top of the list for all of those responsible for securing the facility.
Over the life of their campuses, thousands of dollars are invested in all forms of security, including sophisticated alarms and entry systems, motion lighting, security cameras, and biometric door locks. In addition, patrol officers and other security staff are hired. Multi-layered fencing systems, including anti-climb security fences, are installed.
When it comes to security, more is more. The more measures implemented, the greater the potential for success. Jodi Rell, the former Governor of Connecticut, may have said it best: “At the end of the day, the goals are simple: safety and security.”
With so much at stake, how do organizations choose the right solutions for their facility?
What is a No-Climb or Anti-Climb Security Fence?
As the name implies, an anti-climb security fence is one designed in a way to make it difficult for people to climb over to breach a secure border. To determine the one that is right for your project, you will want to look at your special needs, the size of your perimeter, and what kind of security issues you have had in the past or anticipate in the future.
Commonly Used Fence Types That Do Not Deter Climbing
It is important to realize that not all fence types offer the same no-climb security. Following is a list of these fencing designs.
Chain Link Fence
This is really not an anti-climb type of fencing, but it is included because it is used as a popular type of perimeter fencing. Chain link is heavy collated steel wires that are interlocked for strength and ease of repair. It is easily installed and is durable and cost-effective. The issue with this type of fencing is that it can be easily climbed. Most security measures include the addition of coiled barbed or razor wire above the top edge to discourage climb attempts.
Wooden Fence
Wooden fencing should only be used as a temporary option. Wood is more easily penetrated and can be climbed with limited skill. They are better used for concealment rather than being an anti-climb option.
Heras Fence
Heras fencing, made through a galvanized steel construction, is usually sold in panels and is best used for a temporary fence, such as for crowd control or temporary construction sites. Since this type of fencing is so portable, it is more often used as a safety measure to keep people from an area, rather than being used around a permanent building or perimeter.
Metal Hoarding Fence
Metal or steel hoarding is used as a flexible security enclosure. This is also a form of temporary fencing and is easy to install and increases site security when compared to metal panels. It can be reused and is durable. It may be expensive to install and is generally used at temporary sites.
No-Climb Fencing Solutions
Metalco provides a variety of robust, high-performance no-climb fencing options that can adapt to both the aesthetics and safety requirements of an installation.
Mesh Panels
Mesh panels allow you to have unrestricted visual ability since you can easily see through them. They can be made from strong material and are attractive to look at.
Palisade Fencing
Palisade fencing comprises strong vertical pales that are secured to horizontal rales to form strong fencing that is nearly impossible to climb. Dating back to ancient times, this style has withstood countless attacks and kept many perimeters secure. They are often constructed higher than traditional fencing and can be designed in different finishes and colors.
Where is Security Fencing Used?
Security fencing can be used in a number of locations, to keep people out, keep people in, protect against damage, shield a property from criminal activity such as theft. Used in conjunction with other security devices and procedures, it can be the key to protecting property, employees, and assets.
Infrastructure
Utility Companies
Utility companies use security fencing to protect equipment and also provide a protective barrier against threats. Theft of copper wire has prompted some utility companies to beef up their security at substations and storage yards.
Data Centers
Because of the equipment and technology contained in data centers, many choose building sites that are nondescript and unrecognizable. Still, the perimeter of these facilities must be installed to funnel visitor traffic, and prevent admittance to unauthorized persons.
Chemical Plants
Chemical plants may be a target for terrorists or thieves. Protecting the plant, the campus, and the general public requires perimeter fencing that can deter even the most accomplished criminals.
Water Treatment Plants and Reservoirs
Protecting the water supply to communities across the country is of paramount importance. An anti-climb security fence is essential in keeping unauthorized people away from the water and treatment areas.
Government
Federal Buildings
Federal buildings are another area that may be targeted by terrorists. Assets and records within these buildings require security that cannot be breached.
Military Bases
Military bases need security fencing to deter potential intruders, protect our military personnel, and ward off threats. Military bases are often sprawling, exposing multiple admittance points.
Municipal Buildings
Municipal buildings, including everything from city hall to the police or fire departments, are often hubs for activity and even criminals and their associates. They can be the targets for criminal activity and need the protection of perimeter fencing.
Transportation
Airports/Train Stations/ Public Transit
Anywhere that people gather in enclosed spaces such as a plane, train, or bus is a prime target for terrorism and other threats. Without proper security fencing around the area, all the luggage checks, metal detectors, and security staff would not be able to control access from unrestricted points.
Department of Transportation Operation Facilities
Just like the other transportation-related hubs, these operation facilities need to restrict access to unauthorized personnel for the safety of their passengers and employees.
Public Spaces
Stadiums and Arenas
For the same reason that your bags are checks when you attend a football game, a security fence adds to the safety of those attending the event. Though access is controlled within the facility, it is more difficult in an often expansive area outside the stadium or arena.
Parks and Recreation
Public parks, swimming pools, and other recreation are a great draw for families, particularly those with children. Keeping them safe is possible by providing security around the facility.
Metalco Has The Expertise to Guide You Through the Process
MFR Corp/Metalco has been successfully manufacturing and installing fence projects for over 25 years. We guide our clients through the pitfalls and successful completion of commercial fencing projects every day. Check out some of our security fence installations. Keeping your facility secure is what we do best. We can help you from design through installation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.