Perimeter fences can enhance security in schools if the right specifications, installation and maintenance steps are followed. Here are 10 of the best tips to consider when choosing perimeter fencing for a school. Our hope is that this information will help you choose the right perimeter fencing infrastructure for your school.

1. Consider The Objective

Perimeter fencing can deter intruders and trespassers from unauthorized access into a school so long as the installation and maintenance are done correctly. In addition to securing students, staff, and visitors, these fences can help combat absenteeism in schools as they help stop kids from leaving the school without permission.

However, perimeter fencing shouldn’t be installed before a proper risk assessment of the school is conducted. This is because the security situation is schools will always differ. Obviously, some schools will always be more secure than others depending on where they are located. A risk assessment will identify potential security threats in the area and the results of the assessment will be vital when school which type of school fencing to install.

2. Blending the Aesthetics

Aesthetics are also a big factor to take into account when choosing perimeter fencing for a school. Even though the main purpose of security fencing is to secure the school environment, schools should at the minimum appear welcoming rather than threatening.

Thus, it’s essential for school administrators to take aesthetic considerations very seriously when choosing perimeter fencing for a given institution. Wire mesh, palisade, and vertical railings are some of the common perimeter fencing options you’ll find in many schools.

Now, each of the mentioned fencing options has different visual characteristics so it’ to pick the best fencing for you school. The good thing is that fencing posts come in various colors, which means they can enhance the attractiveness of a given perimeter fence.

3. Cost of the Project

Costs considerations are vital when picking perimeter fencing for a school. Evidently, an attractive and secure perimeter fence will likely be costly than a fence with a generic design. Your budget is, therefore, an important factor to consider when choosing perimeter fencing for a school.

If your school has enough budgets there’s no reason why you should not choose the best and most secure fences out there. Pick the most secure and attractive fences out there if your budget is sufficient.

4. Strategically Placed Access points

Ant time you buy and install perimeter fencing for a school, you have to be clear on where the gates will be placed or located. It’s highly recommended that’s you pick the right access points for both pedestrians and vehicles so that it’s convenient to get in and out of the school.

We can advise you on the best position to install gates and other access points. You should, however, be wary of buying fencing equipment from a supplier with insufficient knowledge on how school perimeter fencing should be installed and maintained.

5. Additional Security Measures

We all know that fencing can greatly boost the security of school. However, these physical barriers may not be enough depending on the types or risks a school may be exposed to.

In most cases, perimeter fencing will do a better job if additional security measures such as access control systems and CCTV are included. As result, the school administration must factor the cost of additional security measures when choosing perimeter fencing infrastructure.

6. Perform a Risk assessment

Before selecting a fence for a school, a thorough risk assessment should be carried out to understand potential security threats around the school. Carrying out risk assessment is critical because the surroundings of any location can change over time.

For example, new settlements or construction can impact the security of school. This means the school administration should always be on the lookout for potential changes or threats in their surroundings. Consulting the services of security specialists is critical if a school is located in a high-risk environment.

7. Use a Trusted Education Security Specialist

Besides from choosing perimeter fencing fixtures, it’s also crucial to choose experienced school fence fitters when carrying out the project. The biggest mistake school administrators make is hiring inexperienced companies to install their school fences.

8. Maintenance

A quality perimeter fence should require minimal maintenance. But occasional inspections are vital, as they help identify potential threats in the school environment.

For example, trees can provide intruders with an easy route to climb over the fence. Apart from the fence, it’s also important to inspect all access gates and hinges are working properly when carrying out maintenance.

In the end, the school administration should be proactive when carrying out inspection and maintenance to avoid security breaches that could be prevented.

9. Standards

When picking school security equipment, it’s essential to ensure that materials meet the highest quality standards. In other words, any time you’re installing equipment, it’s important to use materials that meet British and international standards.

10. Consult experts

Lastly, it’s essential to consult experts such as the Harling Security team when planning to install fencing in your school. Experts will not only offer free advice on how to properly implement security measures in your school but can also assess your school and offer up to date advice as well as installation services.