Providing multi-layer security for a leading energy provider occupying a multi-tenant building
Concerned for the safety of its employees and the protection of its assets, this client made the strategic decision to upgrade its security systems at its London headquarters. The upgrade was deemed a necessary move to deter and prevent protesters – who were escalating their activities at the time – from accessing its workspace and placing its staff and assets at risk.
Our expert team at Integrated Design Limited (IDL) worked in collaboration with one of our key integration partners, Ace Fire and Security, to design and install a multi-layered system to bolster the security of the energy firm’s workspace, which occupied several floors of a multi-tenanted, managed building.
Upgrading security on an upper level
While lobby security is provided by the property managers, the energy firm was concerned that protestors may be able to make it through this first layer of security. The client therefore needed a robust but frictionless solution to enhance the security of its own space to provide an additional layer of protection; this initially centred on one of its floors only
“A simpler access control system and fob-based entrance control system was in place, but our client decided they needed more, given the heightened security risks at the time,” explains Mark Goldsmith, Senior Key Account Manager at Ace Fire and Security. Click here for an explanation of the distinction between entrance control and access control.
A layered system was sought, with entrance control units to be placed around the level as needed to divide the space into regions.
“As well as controlling which person can enter which area, the client wanted to be able to see the user as they badged in, either live, or with a picture later, continues Mark. “They also wanted something robust, delivering psychological as well as physical deterrence. We suggested Speedgates. They provide strong security, of course, but also you can integrate a very wide range of additional elements from readers to cameras.”
Given the risk that the protestors may attempt to jump over entrance control units, full-height turnstiles were installed on the upper floors.
Overall, the system involved CCTV and the Verkada access control system, as well as our Speedlanes. Verkada is cloud-based, allowing managers to control everything remotely. Other benefits include automatic muster reports for scenarios like fire and evacuation.
Completing the specification
“We proposed IDL because they really are the best in the marketplace. We’ve installed hundreds of lanes across the UK and Europe successfully with them; we didn’t really look elsewhere,” adds Mark.
A site survey was completed by Mark and IDL’s London Sales Manager. The Glassgate 200 was chosen because it has a slim pedestal and compact footprint, and yet offers the option of full-height barriers. Five turnstiles were needed, installation being made easier by the fact that the company was expanding into an unoccupied floor new to them.
Expanding the remit to a second level
The client was clearly impressed with the systems being installed: while work was progressing, we were asked to propose a similar solution for another floor. Activity on the initial level wrapped up successfully, and the new proposal was accepted, so the Ace Fire and Security team moved on from one floor to the next.
Similar systems including five more Glassgate 200 units were installed. The new area was in daily use, which added some complexity to the integration. Lighter work was completed during the day. For the final placement of the Speedgates, the Ace Fire and Security team worked late into the night on several occasions, with staff arriving the next morning to see new turnstiles in place, minimising disruption to their working day.
Additional installations outside the capital
The initial two London installations finished successfully, but the partnership continues. Ace Fire and Security has been asked to fit systems in other buildings outside London for the same client. In Brighton, for example, further Glassgate 200s were fitted. This was a more standard lobby installation, with our client responsible for all security, rather than relying on separate building arrangements.
Back at the London HQ, Ace Fire and Security is, at time of writing, wrapping up work on the third and last storey of the space, four more Glassgate 200s going in there.
“This has been a very successful project from our perspective,” comments the Technical Operations manager who led work from the client end. “The system overall provides us with many new capabilities, and the Fastlane turnstiles are proving reliable and efficient, as well as complementing the space visually. Obviously, we’re very pleased, as we keep requesting additional installations.”
For IDL, long-term relationships lie at the heart of our work. Ace Fire and Security is an especially valued partner we look forward to working with more in the future.
If you think the Glassgate 200 or any other Fastlane turnstile might be right for your location, please get in touch using our contact page. Or, via 020 8890 5550 or info@fastlane-turnstiles.com.
