
Perimeter security, as your first line of defence, is arguably the most important aspect of any security strategy.
A well thought out security plan involves many layers of security, however, the main thing to remember is this: If your building or grounds look well protected, most burglars or intruders won’t even bother to take a closer look and instead move on to easier pickings.
So what type of perimeter security is best for you?
There are many products available ranging from anti climb paint, to wall spikes and rotating anti climb spinners. The first thing to bear in mind however, is that there are restrictions on what you can use for different height walls and fences.
Here’s a quick guide to the best anti climb products around and where you can use them:
#1 For metal fences or walls at least 5’ 6” high
Your main limitation here is the height. 5’ 6” is too low to fit any of the more aggressive anti-climb systems. This is because it may present an unnecessary risk to the public (or trespassers!).
Here’s a good solution:
Roller Barrier Non Aggressive Anti Climb Barrier
Roller Barrier would be a good option at this height because it’s virtually impossible to climb yet, with the absence of spikes, it won’t injure anyone.
Roller Barrier is a row of polycarbonate cylinders that independently rotate about a central spindle. Essentially, each cylinder is just too large for an adult to gain a hand grip. This makes it impossible for an intruder to get a grip and pull themselves up.
Because of its non aggressive nature, Roller Barrier is rapidly becoming the anti climb product of choice for schools and public buildings and you'll also see it used trackside by the rail network.
Another reason that it's popular with schools and local authorities is that the main component is manufactured from recycled polycarbonate, so it's environment friendly and helps with recycling targets.
#2 For walls, metal fences and gates above 6’
You have a number of choices:
Razor Comb
It’s an oddly named product because it’s blunt and not at all ‘razor like’. However, it looks menacing, which is what makes it effective.
Razor Comb is fixed down by a row of screws or bolts, alternatively, it can be welded on to metal gates or fences.
Security Grade: low
Razor Channel "U" Profile
This is a galvanised steel channel with 45 degree angle cut-outs on either side of the U forming a row of uneven spikes.
Razor Channel ‘U’ Profile is easy to fit by simply screwing, bolting or welding it on to the top of walls, fences or gates.
Security Grade: medium
Razor Channel "W" Profile
Manufactured in the same way as the ‘U’ profile, Razor Channel ‘W’ Profile is a galvanised steel fabrication that looks a bit like a concertina or ‘W’ shape.
It sits on the outside edge of a wall, fence or flat roof with one spiked edge pointing forward and the other spiked edge pointing upward.
It’s easy to fit by simply screwing or bolting it on to the top outer edge of walls, fences, gates or flat roofs.
Security Grade: medium
#3 For walls, metal fences and gates above 8’
Here are the main options:
Razor Spike 11
This is a highly aggressive fixed barrier originally developed in South Africa. Manufactured from galvanised (weatherproof) mild steel, Razor Spike 11 is highly effective at keeping the more determined intruder out.
Rows of barbed spikes (like fish hooks) spring out in different directions sending out a clear message to any would be intruder.
It’s simple to fit with rows of pre-drilled fixing holes ready for screw or bolt fixing.
Because of its effectiveness and aggressive yet attractive appearance, this product is installed worldwide on properties ranging from the private homes of football stars, to many types of commercial property as well as on Government buildings such as Embassies.
Security Grade: high
Now we move up a gear to ‘rotating’ anti-climb barriers and spinners. Rotating barriers provide a more formidable obstacle for intruders, particularly when embellished with spikes!
RotaSpike
This aggressive looking anti climb system is designed to be mounted on wall or fence tops. The system comprises a series of spiked collars (each featuring 3 protruding spikes welded to a central collar), which when fitted rotate freely around a central spindle.
RotaSpike is a steel fabrication that’s fully weatherproof thanks to its galvanised finish. As an option, it can be also be supplied with a durable paint finish in a range of colours.
Security Grade: high
Vanguard
Vanguard is regarded as one of the most difficult anti-climb barriers to defeat. In fact it was tested by the British Army who confirmed this.
It’s manufactured from ripped aluminium tubing, formed into a peeled banana shape, the rotating vanes are mounted on a central spindle supported by fixing brackets at 2 metre intervals.
Vanguard is the number one choice for use around commercial depots, yards and vulnerable railway trackside areas. It’s also widely used by banks and hotels, around their delivery areas.
The standard finish is natural aluminium however it can also be supplied in a choice of durable paint finishes.
Security Grade: high
Note; remember, where use of a spiked type rotating barrier is not an option, Roller Barrier could be the ideal solution.
Three things to remember when installing anti-climb system
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The minimum safe height for installing hazardous anti-climb barriers is 2 meters above ground level (higher height restrictions may apply in some locations and for some products).
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Where ever you install them, make sure there’s no possibility of anyone accidentally falling onto them.
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Make sure warning signs are clearly displayed at all approaches to the barrier (at least one every 5 meters on straight runs).
And finally...
Check out these links for the best prices and more information:
Fixed barriers:
Razor Spike 11
Razor Channel "U" Profile
Razor Channel "W" Profile
Razor Comb
Spiked Collars for Poles & Downpipes
Rotating Barriers:
Roller Barrier
Vanguard
RotaSpike
Other Related Products:
Warning Signs
Anti Climb Paint