Grills & Shutters

Perimeter security is a term used to describe the barriers that help deter and prevent any break-ins (or breakouts). It plays a vital role in protecting buildings and premises. Boundaries and physical barriers are perhaps the most visible aspects of perimeter security, but comprehensive measures are also likely to leverage modern technology and security systems as well. In this article, APE delve into different aspects of perimeter security and highlights the benefits they offer a business or property. For help getting the most out of building security, get a quote from APE Fire and Security. APE provides industry-pioneering, reliable, and innovative fire and security systems and products. Types of perimeter security Physical Barriers (Fences, Gates, and Walls) Physical barriers have been used for thousands of years to protect people, properties, and even countries. Hadrian’s Wall is a fine example of historic perimeter security. Currently, perimeter physical barriers range from basic garden walls to advanced electric commercial gates. The best-suited physical barrier will largely depend on specific circumstances (and local planning permissions). Some high-risk premises will require large fences with barbed wire on top to prevent entry, while others may simply benefit from a small wall. The associated risk will determine the most suitable measure to implement. The adaptability of physical barriers Physical barriers can also adapt to the requirements of a location rising bollards being a great example Physical barriers can also adapt to the requirements of a location rising bollards being a great example. This grants different access to an area based on specific circumstances. For example, councils may want to use these to restrict traffic through a town or location at specific times. The adaptability of rising bollards or barriers provides new opportunities in perimeter security to give more flexibility in their use. Installation of physical barriers Another similar example is a commercial premise lowering a barrier overnight to prevent access to their carpark when the business is closed. Physical barriers can also be installed temporarily for example, during festivals. Organizations can benefit from the physical barrier and enjoy quick and easy installation. Access Control & Intercoms For high-value buildings and commercial properties, access control and intercom systems can be incorporated into barriers like electric gates. For example, typing a passcode into a control panel to open an electric gate adds further security measures to the physical barrier. Instead of just having a padlock (which could be damaged), this creates a more comprehensive security system. Integration of biometrics Access control systems could also use biometrics to add even further security measures for a premise Access control can be integrated into an alarm system too, resulting in quick response times to any potential problems. Access control systems could also use biometrics to add even further security measures for a premise. This may be desirable for very high-risk locations whereby potential break-ins could have dangerous implications. Adding measures like intercoms can ensure that perimeter security helps to prevent unauthorized entries. By requiring a human to approve entry, intercom systems can give individuals more control over security. It can also record who has entered a building, improving fire safety by having a better understanding of who is currently within a building. Perimeter CCTV Without CCTV and “evidence” of attempted break-ins, criminals may not be deterred from trying to break into a building, regardless of physical barriers. Organized criminals may welcome the challenge to overcome a physical barrier to gain entry if there is no evidence of CCTV. CCTV improves the overall security of any perimeter setup. It ensures the physical barriers are being monitored for any vulnerabilities or break-ins. The simple presence of CCTV cameras is often enough to deter some criminals. The knowledge that their actions are being recorded is enough to make them think twice. Motion detection and thermal cameras  Motion detection is a feature of modern CCTV, whereby it can capture any detected movement on the perimeter Motion detection is a great feature of modern CCTV, whereby it can capture any detected movement on the perimeter. This means users can monitor and record any suspicious behavior. Similarly, thermal cameras can also be a useful addition to perimeter systems. There is also exciting innovation happening in CCTV, such as the use of drones to monitor premises, which could add further protection for high-risk areas. This would also revolutionize monitoring large-scale areas, such as National Parks or country boundaries. Perimeter Lighting Motion lighting on perimeter barriers is another way to add further security measures to a premise. Detecting any movement and subsequently activating lights is something that can be used on almost any budget. It is simple but effective in reducing break-ins. Strategically lighting vulnerable areas is also a great way to deter criminals from it due to the increased visibility.  Doors and Windows Having alarm systems that prevent buildings from being locked if windows are open can help minimize this risk As well as all the advanced perimeter security solutions, something that should not be forgotten about are the doors and windows themselves. It doesn’t matter how effective the access control systems are, if it’s located next to an open window all night, it won’t protect a building. This means implementing security measures on doors and windows to reduce their vulnerabilities is a must. Things like metal grills on ground floor windows can help overcome the risk of break-ins should an employee accidentally leave a window open overnight. Or similarly, having alarm systems that prevent buildings from being locked if windows are open can help minimize this risk. Learn with APE Fire and Security The best approach to security is an integrated approach. APE Fire and Security prides itself on its extensive knowledge and expertise in security systems. With more than 40 years of experience in the industry, APE's skilled and experienced staff can design, supply, install, maintain and monitor quality systems for a wide range of properties. Simply get in touch with the team at APE Fire and Security and they will provide tailored recommendations that best suit users' needs and budgets.

Ajax, a European manufacturer of smart wireless security systems, launched multiple new products: MotionCam, a motion detector with photo verification of alarms, and the updated OS Malevich 2.8 which includes automation scenarios, a smart home remote control Button, and Multi-Rex that enables protection of huge facilities. The new devices and updates allowed Ajax to achieve the following goals: eliminate the violation of privacy by traditional video cameras; combine security equipment and smart home into a single system; ensure coverage of very large facilities with a single wireless security system. Automation and protection "For a long time, security systems and home automation have been believed to be two different things," said Alexander Konotopskyi, Ajax Systems CEO. "We’ve started merging these conceptions based on Ajax to ensure a wide range of automation and protection capabilities in one solution." MotionCam: safe photo verification MotionCam will resolve the problem of unverified alarms and security patrol calls by false alarms  MotionCam, a new motion detector with a camera for visual alarm verification, will resolve the problem of unverified alarms and security patrol calls by false alarms.  Whenever the detector spots an intrusion, it takes several photos so that the owner and the security company can be convinced whether there is a real intrusion or the alarm has occurred due to simple oversights, hyperactive pets, or incorrect installation of the detector. Wings radio protocol MotionCam detectors do not violate privacy, as they activate the camera only in case of alarm neither users nor the security company have any backdoors to take a picture by request. The Ajax team has developed a new Wings radio protocol for this detector. It guarantees transmission of images in less than 9 seconds to a distance of 1,700 meters and provides record energy efficiency for this type of device — the batteries in the detector live up to 4 years. All the data are encrypted when transmitted and stored, and images are not processed or analyzed by anyone. MotionCam detectors require a Hub 2 control panel. Fast photo transmission "I am proud that the Ajax team can make such inventions. Without a doubt, the Wings technology sets new standards in the security industry," said Aleksandr Konotopskyi, Ajax Systems CEO. "Fast photo transmission at a distance of 1700 meters with phenomenal energy efficiency it’s magic that was previously unavailable on the market. We’ve managed to boost the informative quality of the system to the next level and preserve the familiar user experience at the same time." OS Malevich 2.8: automation scenarios, button, Multi-Rex The updated OS Malevich 2.8 enables system users to automate their routine actions Ajax has managed to change people’s attitudes towards security systems. Security equipment has become a gadget that is pleasant to use for safety at home and work. The updated OS Malevich 2.8 enables system users to automate their routine actions: e.g., security scheduling, managing home and office appliances, or counteracting any force majeure circumstances. Examples of available scenarios (launching in beta version) Scheduled night mode — arms the perimeter of the property and protects the family while they sleep. Automatic doors and roller shutters — the scenario rules out the situations when the employees forget to lower the roller shutters or lock the door. Flood prevention system — Ajax detectors identify a pipe breakage and dishwasher leaks from the first drops. An activated Scenario can automatically shut down running water to prevent flooding. Power cut off by a fire alarm — fire detectors immediately respond to smoke or temperature increase. Set a scenario to switch off the potential cause of ignition. Spotlighting the trespassers — the system scares off burglars approaching the house with blinding lights and loud sirens. Home activity simulation — when going on vacation, the user can set up the lighting or audio playback schedules. The home won’t look empty and won’t attract thieves’ attention. Heating on schedule — the system can schedule the work of the underfloor heating system and turn on the electric boiler automatically at night when electricity runs at reduced rates. More about scenarios For the convenient usage of scenarios, Ajax has expanded the functionality of its wireless panic button For the convenient usage of scenarios, Ajax has expanded the functionality of its wireless panic button. The “Button” supports two modes: regular Panic Mode and Control Mode which will let users run different scenarios.  With a single click, they will be able to turn off the lights, switch on/off home appliances, lower the roller blinds, or open the gate. Climate control and lighting automation "Today, we make a big step towards an Ajax-based smart home. The goal of this release is to automate the user’s routines in the app and train the Ajax system to resist the threats autonomously," said Valentyn Hrytsenko, Ajax Systems CMO. "Our next big focus will be to dive deeper into climate control and lighting automation. We’ve formed a dedicated R&D team to develop the smart home functionality further. Within the next two years, we’re planning to significantly expand the model range of automation devices." Multi-Rex: securing very large facilities Users can connect up to 5 ReX range extenders to one Ajax control panel. The coverage area has increased from 12 km2 to 35 km2. With a single system, without any complex restructuring, the user can secure an office building, a factory with concrete floors, a farm with many buildings and a vast territory, etc. ReX enhances the autonomy of the security system and increases its reliability. Each range extender combines the connected detectors into an independent subsystem. If communication with the hub is lost, ReX will take over facility protection.

Delta Scientific showcased its new Delta HD300 which is  available with either a fully electric or hydraulic control unit Delta Scientific, the leading manufacturer of counter-terrorist vehicle control systems used in the United States and internationally, recently announced that on June 24-25 over 150 government officials, security professionals, integrators and contractors came together at Delta's Fredericksburg office to view anti-terrorism barriers, bollards, crash-rated gates and other equipment, including new products. Visiting an average three to four hours apiece, attendees at the inaugural Delta Equipment Demonstration viewed equipment in action, stayed for training and networked. "Attendees told us that they especially appreciated us setting up networking opportunities between users, integrators and contractors so that they could work together on future projects," reports Keith Bobrosky, Delta Scientific sales manager. "Government project managers took advantage of the opportunity to bring their engineers to the event so that they could actually see the products they specify in action and get additional training on them.” "Attendees asked that we do this event twice a year, the next time on the West Coast," Bobrosky adds. "As a result, we will do a second Delta Equipment Demonstration and Networking Event sometime in the late winter at our headquarters facility in Palmdale." "Attendees told us that they especially appreciated us setting up networking opportunities between users, integrators and contractors so that they could work together on future projects" At the event, State Department employees especially were intrigued with the new Delta HD300, available with either a fully electric or hydraulic control unit, that will stop a 15,000 pound (66.7 Km) vehicle traveling 50 mph (80 kpm). Upon impact, the barrier remains in its foundation and the opening stays blocked, providing a multiple hit capability. In its M50 crash test, the HD300 completely disabled the test vehicle, causing severe damage to the occupant department and power train. The maximum penetration recorded was an outstanding -1.8 m on the passenger's side. A P1 penetration rating was given because the penetration beyond the protected side of the barrier was less than 1.0 m at the lower leading edge of the test vehicle's cargo. Another popular product highlight was Delta's touch screen monitor which was integrated with all ten vehicle access control systems demonstrated at the event.  It provides multiple user levels that lets individuals review images from cameras at each of the barriers. Emergency Fast Operation (EFO) can be captured and recorded for later analysis while audits on when the barrier was deployed and by whom are available with a touch of the screen. In the United States alone, Delta Scientific secures over 110 Federal buildings, including courthouses and FBI locations. Delta also provides vehicle access control for over 160 U.S. embassies and consulates in 130-plus countries as well as those of the United Kingdom and other nations. Recently, Delta barricades at the United States Consulate in Herat, Afghanistan, stopped a bomb-laden car and SUV from penetrating the entrances to the facility. The Taliban attacked the consulate in western Afghanistan with car bombs and guns, killing at least four Afghans, but failing to enter the compound or hurt any Americans. The two drivers of the explosives-filled vehicles did not survive.

With a growing threat from home-grown terrorists, there will be a greater need to protect soft targets as well as to use portable barriers Delta Scientific 2014/2015 Review & Forecast:In 2014, hard targets, such as government facilities, airports, refineries and similar installations continued to boost sales for Delta Scientific by protecting themselves from car- and truck bombers using crash-rated vehicle access control equipment including bollards, barriers, barricades and guard booths.  However, over the last several years, we have seen a growing percentage of our total business come from soft targets, such as major hotels, colleges, office buildings and other places where larger numbers of people congregate. Portable barriers, which can be temporarily put up within 15 minutes and moved on to another location once an event is over, continue to be very popular.  From sporting events to political conventions to a Saturday Farmer's Market, portable barriers are providing a quick, inexpensive solution to traffic control and stopping errant drivers from creating harm. Within 15 minutes of being sited, the mobile crash barrier lowers itself into position with built-in hydraulic jacks. There is no hand cranking. Wheels are stored at the sides, and then the vehicle ramps are folded out, completing the deployment. To move the barrier, the procedures are simply reversed.  For 2015, we expect these trends to continue and become intertwined. With a growing threat from homegrown terrorists, there will be a greater need to protect soft targets as well as to use portable barriers. By their very nature, terrorist attacks are unpredictable and predicated on surprise. Staying one step ahead by identifying vulnerable areas, and securing them, is critical to staving off vehicular attacks. For those areas where a vehicle will never enter, fixed bollards and barriers are the norm. However, at entrances, barriers that go up and down are needed to let authorized vehicles through. That means being able to deploy security equipment in tough conditions, at a moment's notice.  Terrorists typically don't go where they see barricades, so placing them wherever possible attacks can happen reduces security risks dramatically. Temporary barriers can protect facilities while permanent ones are being built, and they're effective for the long-term where physical conditions preclude permanent solutions. See the full coverage of 2014/2015 Review and Forecast articles here

OPTEX, the pioneering global sensing manufacturer, has specified and installed its compact and intelligent REDSCAN RLS-2020 LiDAR laser sensors at the new luxury five-star Londoner hotel in Leicester Square. Part of the Edwardian Hotels London group, The Londoner, which opened in September 2021, is billed as the world’s first super boutique hotel. It has 350 rooms across 16 storeys including six basement levels, featuring six concept eateries, a private members club, a cinema, a wealth of meeting and event space and an entire floor dedicated to health and wellness equipped with a gym, pool, and spa. Existing security system The hotel has six restaurant & bar areas in total with expensive whiskeys, wines, and other drinks on display 24/7 with no shutters or coverings. Given the cumulative value of the drinks behind each bar, the hotel needed to find a security solution to keep its valuable stocks protected.  The solution needed to be accurate and reliable, and capable of integrating with the hotel’s existing security system, as well as being aesthetically discrete.  REDSCAN RLS-2020 laser sensor OPTEX specified and installed its REDSCAN RLS-2020 laser sensor in the ceiling at each of the seven bars OPTEX specified and installed its REDSCAN RLS-2020 laser sensor in the ceiling at each of the seven bars. The RLS-2020 sensors provide a customizable ‘virtual’ wall or plane that cannot be seen by the naked eye with a 95-degree detection area of 20x20m or 30m radius detection range. The laser technology works by analyzing the speed, size, and distance of the objects detected, meaning they track the objects within the detection area and understand the ratio size/distance of the object. This provides the ability to accurately detect a specific size of the object either at a distance or close up. In the event of any movement being detected, a security alarm is raised, and alerts are immediately sent to the 24-hour on-site security control room. OPTEX laser sensors Darren Carter, Group Director of Safety, Security and Sustainability at Edwardian Hotels London, says OPTEX has provided the ideal solution: “We’ve worked with OPTEX for a number of years, and installed their technologies at a number of our other hotels in the group."  “For this new and hugely exciting project, there was nothing else on the market that met our brief. The OPTEX laser sensors are a simple, yet highly effective solution, providing the very highest level of detection that easily integrate with our wider security operation at the hotel.” Partnership with Darren Ben Linklater, OPTEX Commercial Director, says OPTEX’s LiDAR technology delivers the greatest accuracy of detection: “We are constantly working to improve our technology to provide the highest quality sensing solutions,” he says. “Working in close partnership with Darren and his team, we were able to provide a highly accurate detection solution that met their requirements. We are proud to have worked on such a prestigious project, with the Londoner set to become one of the world’s most talked about hospitality experiences.”

Minami-Funabashi, Delta Electronics Japan, renowned for its cutting-edge solutions in power and thermal management, needed a cloud-based surveillance system to solve the issue of inefficient warehouse management. VIVOTEK VORTEX has revolutionized the landscape of warehouse and production line management, exemplifying Delta's unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence. Identifying challenge Before embracing VORTEX, Delta Electronics Japan encountered several operational hurdles. Production Line Efficiency: Struggling with the limitations of traditional production line management, Delta sought greater efficiency and flexibility. Logistics Management: Inefficient logistics processes posed challenges, hindering seamless operations and resource optimization. Disaster Response: Rapid situational assessment during crises was a daunting task, calling for enhanced disaster preparedness measures. Safety Concerns: Safety management, particularly regarding the area in front of the fire shutters, raised significant concerns and required immediate attention. Empowering change with VORTEX VIVOTEK VORTEX's cloud-based surveillance solution offers Delta Electronics Japan a new management system, helping Delta overcome challenges and enhance operational standards. With VORTEX's advanced features, Delta embarked on a cloud surveillance journey: Remote Work Management: Achieved remarkable efficiency gains by transitioning to remote management of workspaces, empowering teams to work smarter and safer. Enhanced Productivity: Leveraged VORTEX's video surveillance capabilities to visualize work progress, resulting in unprecedented productivity enhancements and streamlined operations. Quality Standardization: Ensured consistent quality across operations through comprehensive video-based training and manuals, fostering a culture of excellence. Optimized Logistics: Revolutionized logistics management, minimizing waiting times and maximizing efficiency through real-time monitoring and remote management. Realizing operational excellence VIVOTEK VORTEX has successfully built a smarter and easier operational flow for Delta Electronics Japan, which includes: Production Line Precision: Enhanced daily briefings with archived work sample videos, optimized workforce efficiency with AI insights, and ensured safety compliance with real-time monitoring. Backyard Brilliance: Revolutionized logistics management, stayed ahead of issues with real-time video checks, enhanced inventory management, and bolstered disaster preparedness. Conclusion: A New Era of Excellence VIVOTEK VORTEX’s success with Delta Electronics Japan is a testament to its commitment to innovation and operational excellence. By embracing cutting-edge technology and overcoming operational challenges, Delta has paved the way to efficiency, productivity, and security in warehouse and production line management.

The Rewley Road Swing Bridge, an integral part of Oxford's industrial history, underwent a remarkable transformation in 2023 from rusting to restoration. Through a collaborative effort between the Oxford Preservation Trust, the Railway Heritage Trust, Historic England, and input on security solutions from Jacksons Fencing, this iconic landmark was meticulously restored and safeguarded for the enjoyment of present and future generations. A journey through time Dating back to 1851, the Rewley Road Swing Bridge played a pivotal role in the movement of goods and people during the 19th century in Oxford. However, changing times lead to its disuse and subsequent state of disrepair. By the 1980s, the bridge stood permanently fixed in an open position. Recognizing the historical and cultural significance of the bridge, the Oxford Preservation Trust embarked on a restoration journey to bring this historical treasure back to life. Jacksons Fencing was specified by the Railway Heritage Trust and Historic England to provide demarcation fencing around the landmark, playing a vital role in ensuring the successful establishment of the bridge as a visitor attraction. Modern security meets historical elegance Fencing's unique vertical bar design not only exudes visual grace but also serves as a robust barrier To ensure the safety of visitors and protect the bridge from potential vandalism, Jacksons Fencing provided a thoughtful protection plan that seamlessly integrated modern security features with the bridge’s historical esthetic. In the pursuit of safeguarding the Rewley Road Swing Bridge, Jacksons Fencing introduced a total of 57 meters of 1.25 m high Barbican Imperial® fencing which seamlessly harmonized security with the bridge's historical charm. The fencing's unique vertical bar design not only exudes visual elegance but also serves as a robust barrier against unauthorized access. This fence choice is ideal for a heritage project as it offers the look of traditional metal railings but with a modern, stronger, and more sustainable tubular design. Barbican Imperial fencing Concealed connectors and the absence of visible bolts or fixings further amplify the fencing's security prowess while maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance. As an integral part of the protection strategy, a 3.6 m wide double leaf gate was integrated, complete with a pad-lockable slide latch. This innovative latch ensures controlled access, reinforcing security without compromising convenience. The specification of high-quality materials was paramount for this project. The selected Barbican Imperial fencing was meticulously crafted from high-quality hot dip galvanized steel, equipping it with exceptional strength and resistance against the corrosive forces of time. To ensure the bridge's appearance would not wither, a black polyester powder coating was applied. This not only adds a touch of timeless sophistication but also guarantees durability and a long-lasting finish. By embracing modern techniques, the bridge's protective features are seamlessly integrated into its historic context, allowing it to confidently stand the test of time. A safe haven for local wildlife Gaps between the pales of the fencing facilitate the free movement of animals through the site Jacksons Fencing's commitment extended beyond human safety to encompass the thriving local ecosystem. With a profound understanding of the importance of coexistence with nature, the new security solution was intentionally designed to accommodate the movement of local wildlife. Gaps between the pales of the fencing facilitate the free movement of animals through the site ensuring that while security remains uncompromised, the natural ecosystem can flourish undisturbed. Now fully restored, a new life has been breathed into the Rewley Road Swing Bridge. Beyond its full restoration, the bridge now symbolizes a link between the past and the future. Author's quote Peter Jackson, Managing Director, Jacksons Fencing, comments: "We're thrilled to have been part of restoring the Rewley Road Swing Bridge's historic charm while infusing modern security. Our commitment to eco-conscious solutions mirrors the Oxford Preservation Trust's vision for a biodiverse landscape. He adds, "By strategically integrating wildlife-friendly features, we've created a haven for both heritage and nature. The bridge's removal from the Heritage at Risk Register and its recognition with the Railway Heritage Trust Conservation Award in 2022 spotlight our collective dedication to preserving history while embracing security and sustainability."