Jacksons Fencing - Experts & Thought Leaders

Jacksons Fencing has successfully completed the installation of an innovative sound reduction barrier and security fencing system for Matthews Haulage at their Essex logistics facility. The project, completed in 2024, was designed to address the haulage company's dual needs for noise control and site security, providing a durable, compliant, and efficient solution. Robust security Matthews Haulage, a long-established player in the transport and logistics sector, sought to minimise noise pollution generated by its 24-hour operations while protecting its valuable assets. With residential areas and commercial properties nearby, the Essex facility required a solution that not only adhered to stringent environmental noise regulations but also provided robust security against unauthorised access and theft. Expertly engineered The barrier was engineered to meet the dual requirements of sound absorption and site security Jacksons Fencing installed a 3.5 metre high, 141.5-metre-long absorptive sound reduction barrier around the perimeter of the warehouse. The barrier was engineered to meet the dual requirements of sound absorption and site security. Using advanced sound-absorptive materials, the barrier effectively dampens high-frequency noise from haulage and loading activities, preventing it from reaching nearby residential and commercial areas. This noise reduction is crucial in maintaining Matthews Haulage’s compliance with local environmental regulations, helping to reduce noise complaints and strengthen relations with the surrounding community. Certified safety Given its proximity to a busy road, Jacksons Fencing ensured that the barrier met UKCA standards; it is certified as a whole system that complies with strict safety and performance standards necessary for the mitigation of road noise. This UKCA marking guarantees the long-term reliability of the barrier under challenging conditions, including traffic-induced vibrations and environmental stressors, reinforcing Matthews Haulage’s commitment to regulatory compliance and operational resilience. Combining noise reduction with security Beyond noise mitigation, the 3.5-metre-high barrier functions as a robust security fence Beyond noise mitigation, the 3.5-metre-high barrier functions as a robust security fence. Its solid construction provides a strong physical deterrent against unauthorised access, effectively preventing trespassing, theft, or vandalism. Additionally, the height and opacity of the barrier afford the facility excellent privacy and concealment, reducing the chance of opportunistic targeting by blocking the visibility of assets such as vehicles and cargo. Unique requirements Peter Jackson, Managing Director of Jacksons Fencing, commented on the project’s success: "The acoustic barrier we installed is a reflection of our commitment to providing bespoke solutions that not only meet regulatory requirements but also enhance the operational performance of our clients." "Our team worked closely with the client to ensure the barrier met their unique requirements, from regulatory compliance to site-specific security needs. It’s a prime example of how tailored solutions can make a real impact on both operational efficiency and community relations."

In response to the growing demand for enhanced security at renewable energy sites, Jacksons Fencing has recently completed the installation of 443 meters of EuroGuard® Flatform twin wire mesh fencing at a battery storage facility in the UK. As the UK accelerates its shift towards a sustainable energy grid, securing battery energy storage systems (BESS) is essential for ensuring energy security. This project represents a crucial step in protecting the infrastructure needed for a renewable future. Addressing the demand BESS plays a pivotal role in the UK’s renewable energy strategy by storing excess energy generated from wind and solar sources to balance supply and demand. As these facilities become more common, they face a heightened risk of theft, vandalism, and operational disruptions, making robust security solutions essential. Jackson Fencing delivered a tailored security solution, combining cost efficiency, scalability, and high-level protection. Tailored security solutions for a critical site The security needs of the battery storage facility included preventing unauthorised access, deterring vandalism, maintaining high visibility for security patrols and surveillance, accommodating future expansions cost-effectively, and facilitating smooth delivery and maintenance of large battery units. Jacksons Fencing addressed these needs by installing its EuroGuard® Flatform twin wire mesh fencing system around the site’s perimeter. This solution provides advanced security features with clear sightlines, ensuring effective monitoring while maintaining a budget-friendly approach. The unobtrusive design also preserves the surrounding rural landscape, contributing to a positive work environment. Vandal-resistant and anti-theft design EuroGuard® Flatform prevents breaches and fence panel theft, leading to gaps in the perimeter The EuroGuard® Flatform system’s twin wire mesh panels incorporate anti-tamper fixings placed on the secure side of the fence, ensuring the installation is highly resistant to vandalism and tampering. This feature is crucial for protecting the sensitive and valuable battery storage equipment housed on-site. By keeping the carefully designed fixings out of reach,  EuroGuard® Flatform prevents breaches and fence panel theft, leading to gaps in the perimeter. With a 25-year guarantee, the fence provides comprehensive long-term protection for this vital infrastructure. High visibility and safety The mesh design of the EuroGuard® Flatform system allows high visibility for security personnel and surveillance systems, facilitating the early detection of potential threats. This high-visibility design also ensures that the fence blends into the rural landscape, preserving countryside views and fostering a pleasant environment for workers. Cost, space efficiency, and scalability For large-scale energy storage facilities, cost efficiency is a critical consideration. EuroGuard® Flatform system provides a secure yet budget-friendly solution without compromising on quality. Its modular design allows for easy scalability, enabling the facility to expand its security perimeter as it grows. By using a mesh clip installation system, the fencing can be extended to accommodate additional battery units while maintaining a high level of security. To further enhance operational efficiency, Jacksons Fencing installed a 6-meter wide mesh gate to streamline battery unit deliveries, reducing access points and enhancing security. Perimeter Intrusion Detection System (PIDS) PIDS ensures that any intrusion attempts are swiftly identified and addressed, even in isolated areas Given the facility’s remote location, Jacksons Fencing also integrated a Microphonic Perimeter Intrusion Detection System (PIDS) into the fence. This system is designed to detect any attempts to cut or breach the fence, providing an additional layer of security. The PIDS ensures that any intrusion attempts are swiftly identified and addressed, even in isolated areas. High-quality, scalable security solutions Peter Jackson, Managing Director of Jacksons Fencing, commented on the project’s success, "Securing energy storage is crucial as the UK aims for a sustainable future, especially to double onshore wind to 30GW by 2030." "Installing EuroGuard® Flatform fencing at this battery storage facility shows our commitment to delivering high-quality, scalable security solutions that protect vital assets and support the UK's energy stability."

In response to the increased demand for oxygen supplies following the 2020 pandemic and subsequent rise in respiratory-related conditions, Jacksons Fencing completed a key project in 2024 to safeguard vital oxygen storage facilities at a pioneering UK hospital. Addressing the demand The pandemic highlighted the critical role of oxygen in treating patients, causing a surge in its use across hospitals. Some facilities even declared major incidents due to oxygen shortages, prompting a significant government investment of over £15 million to upgrade oxygen supplies and prevent future disruptions. As part of these improvements, many larger hospitals have started to feature on-site liquid oxygen storage facilities, where vast industrial tankers convert liquid oxygen to gas as needed. Securing essential resources Jacksons Fencing provided and installed a comprehensive security solution for a new oxygen storage compound Given the stringent safety requirements associated with liquid oxygen due to its extremely low temperatures, precise pressure needs, and related fire and explosion risks securing and managing these supplies is paramount. To address these needs, Jacksons Fencing provided and installed a comprehensive security solution for a new oxygen storage compound. Robust fencing solutions with invisible screen The installation includes 38 metres of Securi-Mesh® fencing, standing at a robust height of 2.4 metres. This fencing is mounted on concrete hardstanding and is complemented by two cantilever sliding gates and a single-leaf pedestrian gate with a push pad exit and key entry. Securi-Mesh fencing features a tightly woven mesh pattern designed to deter climbing attempts, and its small apertures significantly improve resistance to cutting. Additionally, the mesh provides an ‘invisible screen’ effect that allows for effective surveillance without obstructing views, facilitating quick issue identification. Space efficiency and secure gating Unlike traditional swing gates, these gates slide parallel to the fence line, requiring minimal space The cantilever sliding gates installed are particularly well-suited for the restricted space in front of the facility. Unlike traditional swing gates, these gates slide parallel to the fence line, requiring minimal space both in front of and behind the fence. This design not only maximises space efficiency but also enhances security with quick operational cycles, allowing for faster vehicle and goods transit, reducing the time the gates remain open, and minimising security risks. 25-year guarantee with reduced maintenance Furthermore, the absence of ground tracks for the cantilever gates reduces maintenance needs by preventing issues related to debris or track damage, causing fewer repairs, and reduced downtime. In addition to these features, the fencing and gates are backed by a 25-year guarantee, ensuring long-term durability and minimal maintenance. Barbican® vertical bar fan panel The green polyester powder coating chosen for the fencing provides extra corrosion resistance The green polyester powder coating chosen for the fencing provides extra corrosion resistance and contributes to lower long-term costs for the hospital. Sections of the fencing, installed at varying heights, are further secured with a Barbican® vertical bar fan panel, which offers both a physical barrier to intrusion and a visual deterrent. Oxygen storage facility security Peter Jackson, Managing Director, of Jacksons Fencing comments on the success of the project, "Contributing to this vital project, enhancing the security of oxygen storage facilities at a UK hospital, is a significant achievement." "The pandemic highlighted the crucial role of oxygen, we must safeguard these resources effectively." Securi-Mesh® fencing and cantilever sliding gates "The integration of our Securi-Mesh® fencing and cantilever sliding gates reflects our commitment to providing both superior protection and operational efficiency." "By addressing the specific security needs of these vital resources, we help ensure that hospitals can focus on delivering high-quality patient care without disruption.”

Amidst the challenges of a prevailing economic downturn, the retail sector finds itself grappling with an unparalleled rise in incidents of shoplifting, theft, and burglaries. The disconcerting scenes witnessed on London’s Oxford Street in August 2023,​ where crowds gathered, looting as many stores as possible, sent shockwaves across the nation’s retailers. This alarming surge in retail crime has put retailers on high alert, as they contend with a rising tide of security concerns.  Shoplifting concerns Recent data from the Union of Shop Distributive and Allied Workers (USDAW), has raised alarming concerns: shoplifting rates have surged by an unprecedented 24%.​ In the first half of 2023 alone, there were approximately 8 million reported shoplifting incidents. With the ongoing burden of the cost of living crisis and the approaching festive season, it is expected that these figures will keep surging.  Implementing robust security measures Theft and prevention strategies cost retailers approximately £2 billion in 2021/2022 While more help from the Government to support retail workers and the businesses shoplifters target is certainly needed, the implementation of robust security measures will significantly contribute to deterring these crimes from occurring in the first place. British retailers spend millions on tools to deter and catch shoplifters inside stores, from CCTV and security guards to electronic tagging and alarms. The Grocer reported that theft and prevention strategies cost retailers approximately £2 billion in 2021/2022. Despite these initial costs, other threats are at play beyond the shop floor. Break-ins by criminal gangs For many large town centre stores and supermarkets, and units in retail parks, the rear doors and delivery areas are commonly targeted by criminal gangs. It’s not uncommon for thefts to occur from pallets or cages that have been unloaded from lorries and sit waiting to be moved into the building. After-hours break-ins are a risk for all store owners too, particularly over the festive season when a lot of high-value stock has been delivered to shops and supermarkets. Addressing anti-social behaviour  The additional fencing was deemed an essential measure to safeguard the community Anti-social behaviour also poses a challenge for retailers. In 2022, an Aldi based in Derby​ invested in security fencing to protect staff and deter loitering groups. The additional fencing was deemed an essential measure to safeguard the community, as dangerous items were frequently found outside the store, including weapons and hypodermic needles.  So how do physical security solutions such as fencing and gates help better protect retail establishments such as supermarkets and edge-of-town retail park shops? Fencing and gates: a critical component of retail security  1. Risk assessment and target hardening  A thorough risk assessment will identify potential weak spots that require protection. ‘Target hardening’ involves implementing physical security measures that become more robust as they approach the target. This helps deter intruders while ensuring ease of access for customers and staff.  2. Effective perimeter security  Opt for difficult-to-climb security fencing that provides a robust obstacle against thieves, vandals, and intruders Selecting fencing solutions according to the potential threats, site characteristics, and topography is crucial. It is important to specify fencing that strikes a balance and maintains a welcoming appearance while safeguarding external areas of the store or warehouse from potential harm and unauthorised access. Solid fencing which provides concealment can help to conceal expensive goods and remove them as a target for opportunistic theft.  Opt for difficult-to-climb security fencing that provides a robust obstacle against thieves, vandals, and intruders. I recommend selecting a sufficiently tall and robust fence such as an acoustic barrier. Its noise-reducing properties are often beneficial for these types of sites too.  3. Controlling vehicular speeds and access  To enhance security, consider controlling vehicular speeds and access. One effective approach is the installation of bollards at the ends of traditional high streets. This practice is already commonplace as a means of safeguarding against hostile vehicle attacks, but it can also play a pivotal role in preventing quick getaways of vehicles involved in potential heists. Additionally, employing road blockers and sliding gates at the rear entrances of delivery areas would serve to fortify security further. These measures can help in delaying vehicles, allowing for necessary checks to be conducted.  4. Balancing security with aesthetics  The presence of high-security fencing can also make a site more of a target for vandals and burglars Another challenge is avoiding creating an imposing presence, especially important for areas situated near residential communities. The presence of high-security fencing can also make a site more of a target for vandals and burglars. To minimise this risk consider specifying timber fencing and traffic barriers to secure car parks, providing both security and a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers.  Taking an integrated approach Combine secure perimeter fencing with effective lighting in places with shaded areas and at doors, gates, and shop windows, alongside Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS), and strategically placed CCTV. These measures will hinder unauthorised entry and escape, increasing the likelihood of detection and apprehension.  Prioritising employee wellbeing  Installing robust security fencing, complemented by CCTV, good lighting, and guarding, creates a safe environment Installing robust security fencing, complemented by CCTV, good lighting, and guarding, creates a safe environment for employees. This not only safeguards their well-being but also provides peace of mind that they are protected effectively in the case of a burglary or crime.  When selecting security products for retail sites, it is advisable to opt for items that have undergone rigorous testing and carry relevant certifications for their security level. Each component should meet industry-specific standards for its intended purpose and originate from manufacturers accredited under ISO 9001:2015. This ensures a high standard of quality and reliability in safeguarding the premises.  High-quality security fencing As the cost-of-living crisis continues, crime rates increase, and the festive season approaches, the time to act and implement on-site security is now. By investing in comprehensive security measures, retailers can protect their assets, employees, and customers, ensuring a safer and more secure shopping environment for all. High-quality security fencing is also a sound investment, that requires little or no maintenance once installed. The best fencing solutions are extremely weather-resistant, and won’t suffer from rust or corrosion. With all sectors preparing to ride the rapids of recession in the coming year, improving on-site security while selecting cost-effective measures, is one surefire way to protect your people, your property, and your profits from harm. 

In this article, Peter Jackson, Managing Director at Jacksons Fencing, emphasises the significance of implementing and upholding robust security measures, highlighting their role in safeguarding national and public events. In light of a number of tragic incidents, safeguarding public venues has become increasingly prominent in recent years. Despite ongoing threats from terrorism and spontaneous acts of violence, it is imperative that government entities, local authorities, and venue operators take measures to ensure the safety of attendees, staff, and participants, enabling them to enjoy events without risk. Robust security measures are essential to ensure the safety of those involved in the King’s Coronation. In recent years, the UK government has implemented new legislation, such as the Protect Duty, to enhance security measures and protect public locations. Protect duty is a new legislation The Protect Duty is a new legislation that places a legal obligation on public places The Protect Duty is a new legislation that places a legal obligation on public places and venues to assess and mitigate the risk of terrorism. It requires those responsible for public places and spaces to take steps to prevent terrorist attacks and protect those who use them.  Given the unpredictable nature of terrorist attacks, any publicly accessible area can become a potential target.  Those responsible for such places must be equipped to act appropriately at any given moment. To ensure preparedness, venues must establish a robust security framework that assesses the adequacy of security measures, systems, and processes. The aim of legislation like the Protect Duty is to foster a secure environment for the public and safeguard vulnerable locations, including those with significant historical and cultural importance, such as The King's Coronation. Assessing the risk Responsible protection of public locations involves a multi-layered approach that includes physical security measures, access control, and the use of surveillance measures including CCTV. The first step in responsible protection of public locations is to conduct a thorough risk assessment. This will identify any potential threats and vulnerabilities and help to determine the most effective security measures to implement. Implementation of security measures CCTV cameras help to monitor the event and identify any potential security threats Robust security measures, such as CCTV, temporary fencing, bollards, and access control, are essential for ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the coronation event.  CCTV cameras help to monitor the event and identify any potential security threats. Temporary fencing and bollards can be used to control access to the venue and prevent unauthorised entry. Implementing access control measures, such as ID checks and bag searches, will help to ensure that only authorised personnel are allowed into the venue. Security-conscious culture It is crucial to view security measures not only in terms of physical aspects but also from a behavioural perspective. Apart from installing physical security measures, promoting and maintaining a security-conscious culture is also essential. All personnel involved in organising and managing the event should be trained appropriately and encouraged to remain vigilant. Contingency plans, training exercises and drills, and ensuring that all the emergency responders are equipped with the necessary resources and kit are crucial to ensure the smooth running of a national event. Potential security threats Being alert and knowing what to look out for is essential for identifying potential security threats Being alert and knowing what to look out for is essential for identifying potential security threats.  This includes being aware of any suspicious behaviour or activity and reporting it immediately to the authorities. Signs to look out for include unattended bags or packages, people acting suspiciously, or anyone attempting to gain unauthorised access to the venue. Emergency responses to events Emergency responses are of utmost importance during a national event like the Coronation of the King, they can help ensure the safety and security of the public if any security incidents or emergencies arise. Effective coordination among these agencies is also imperative to provide a unified response Reacting promptly and efficiently during emergencies can significantly reduce the risk of harm to the public and prevent the escalation of the situation. Adequate preparation is crucial to facilitate a swift and effective response from the authorities, which may involve deploying emergency services like the police, fire, and ambulance services, and implementing contingency plans to manage the situation. Effective coordination among these agencies is also imperative to provide a unified response. Security solutions for commercial or personal property If you own personal property or commercial premises that will be empty on the day of the coronation, there are several effective security solutions to consider to help reduce the risk of theft, damage, or other security incidents on a day when emergency services will be stretched. These include ensuring all doors and windows are locked and secured before leaving your property unattended. If you have a security system, ensure it is armed and being monitored. Installing CCTV cameras in the key areas of your property, such as entrances and exits can help deter criminals and provide valuable evidence if a security incident does occur. Providing valuable evidence To ensure peace of mind, it's essential to have financial protection in the event of security incidents If you have valuable items or aspects of your property that are at risk of theft, consider removing these items from your property and storing them in a secure location. If this isn’t possible, could you hire security personnel to guard your property and do regular patrols during the event? This can provide an added layer of protection and deter potential criminals. To ensure peace of mind, it's essential to have financial protection in the event of security incidents. Check that your insurance policy is current and covers any damages or losses that may occur Collaboration is key For mass events such as this, collaboration is key.  The public, emergency services, event managers and all those involved must work to help each other throughout the event to ensure safety is upheld. Assessing the risk, implementing robust security measures, and promoting a security-conscious culture are all crucial steps in keeping the public safe. Abiding by these measures will ensure those involved can enjoy the event with peace of mind, knowing that their safety and security are a top priority.

Integrated security solutions are so often recommended by security specialists, while this sounds impressive, what does it actually mean? The short answer is: combining all aspects of security in a layered approach that leaves no vulnerable points. In this article, I will unpick the meaning behind this well used phrase, exploring the key components that make up an effective integrated security solution, while also revealing my top tips when it comes to maintenance and how to specify a solution that will provide real value for money. Integrated security solution When we think of integrated security, we tend to think it’s something that only applies to ultra-high security sites that are entirely inaccessible to the public. We generally picture towering fences topped with barbed wire, guard dogs and security patrols, glaring floodlights, deafening alarms, and warning signs. In actuality, the integrated security approach can be applied to any type of site that needs protecting In actuality, the integrated security approach can be applied to any type of site that needs protecting. This could be a high security data centre or a water treatment plant that needs to be protected for public safety. It could also be a business park that requires open access during the day yet security at night, or even a school, where trespassing, truancy and theft of valuable equipment needs to be deterred, while welcoming environment is also necessary. Even residential properties require integrated security such as front and back garden fencing, CCTV, alarms, and security lights. The bread and butter To hone in on the ins and outs of an effective integrated security solution, it is helpful to follow the ‘5 Ds’ model of perimeter security. This covers the main components required to create a truly robust security strategy covering fencing and deterrents, surveillance and detection systems, access control, and personnel. Forming the first line of defence against unauthorised persons gaining access by freely walking onto, burrowing, climbing, or cutting through to the site is crucial but not the sole purpose of perimeter security. The type of perimeter security will also impact visitors’ first impressions of the premises, so while fencing and security toppings outlining a boundary act as a deterrent, they can also contribute to branding for the company by use of colour or style, or if logos or other signs are fixed to it. This is especially important for schools, who want to create a secure but welcoming environment. Sensor-triggered lighting Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) barriers should be deployed in the form of stand-off fencing Access control measures, such as gates, bollards, and rising arm traffic barriers, work best when used in conjunction with monitoring. Even on their own, they delay people from entering, however CCTV and other surveillance measures greatly improve their efficiency. Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS) are ideal for discreet monitoring and alert to any unwanted movement, and don’t underestimate the power of sensor-triggered lighting to deter trespassers.  For sites with a threat of vehicle-borne attacks, Hostile Vehicle Mitigation (HVM) barriers should be deployed in the form of stand-off fencing around the main perimeter and barriers, bollards, and gates which restrict vehicle movement. Finally, nothing deters criminals more than the presence of other humans. Employing security patrols and access control staff will remove any sense of opportunity from intruders. Most appropriate protection A risk assessment will help site managers assess the most appropriate protection while also considering factors beyond security, including aesthetics, privacy, and noise reduction. The location of the premises will impact certain elements such as coatings. As a base standard, steel fencing must be hot dip galvanised or Galfan® zinc alloy coated to protect it from rust and corrosion. A risk assessment will help site managers assess the most appropriate protection To add colour, polyester powder coating is the most durable, low maintenance option which does not chip or crack, Marine coating, is recommended for providing extra durability in coastal areas. If privacy is an important consideration for the site, opt for a solid fence type, however bear in mind this will hinder any line of sight and opens up spaces for intruders to hide behind, so assess the site’s needs accordingly. Tip top condition The maintenance of security measures is also an important element when considering an integrated approach, to check the system is working as it should be. Splitting a site into zones is a helpful way to map out where security is needed most and identify if there might be areas that require lower protection to prevent over-specifying. For example, higher-level security measures may be required in a zone that takes security staff longer to reach, to help deter or delay intruders as much as possible. Yet in clear lower-risk areas, it is possible to save budget by installing more frugal measures. Save vs splurge To get expert advice it is well worth taking advantage of free site consultations To get expert advice it is well worth taking advantage of free site consultations and counter terror initiatives where appropriate. Their input will help ensure the right, quality products are being specified where they should be, thus limiting the need to spend more money again in the future. If you’re still unsure, I would recommend testing temporary barriers on the site before installing permanent measures, this will help deduce what works and what doesn’t on the premises in question. However, if your risk assessment returned a ‘high risk’ result, it is best to not leave it months before implementing the final plan. Safety and security of buildings Finally, though it may seem counterintuitive, spending more upfront could help you save money overall - remember that quality fencing is going to serve you for a long time. It will need less maintenance and replacing, costing less in the long run. Budget is not an excuse for poor security which compromises the safety and security of buildings It is also worth checking the fencing specified comes with a long guarantee, this will ensure it is covered if defects arise as a result of manufacturing processes. Budget is not an excuse for poor security which compromises the safety and security of buildings, people and assets, particularly in the public realm. Instead, focus on getting it right from the very beginning, rather than risk having to spend the money twice. Full risk assessment There is no single solution when it comes to securing a site. Every situation must be considered individually, starting with a full risk assessment. We recommend an integrated approach to property security wherever appropriate. Along with a secure perimeter, this might also include effective lighting in shaded areas and at doors, gates, and shop windows, Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems (PIDS), and well-placed CCTV. These measures can hinder entry and escape, or increase the chance of discovery and detection. The key message to take away, is that as helpful as modern electronic technology is, in the event of a power failure or malfunction, a site is left vulnerable if this is the only protection you have. Combining electronic measures with traditional, physical security fencing and gates is the only way to have guaranteed protection 24/7.