The power of vaults

Jeremy Cassady of Securikey looks at how modular vault systems can provide an effective, easy-to-install bespoke system for high security applications.

When clients are storing expensive equipment and valuables, sensitive documents and drugs or chemicals, the risks are extremely high, both in terms of goods being stolen and also the safety of those tasked with transporting and storing them.

A number of factors, such as the value/sensitivity of the merchandise and insurers’ requirements, will dictate the type of storage facilities required, and often a vault is the recommended suggestion. It should have the capacity to be integrated with the intruder alarm system, as well as offering a time delay lock, CCTV coverage and limited access with codes being split between staff members.

In order to secure appropriate storage facilities that meet requirements, architects and building planners have a choice. They can commission their own building from scratch, which is costly and time consuming, and a suitable site will also need to be found that will meet all of the logistical requirements. Another option is to hire suitable premises; but finding the right facility to meet very specific needs in the best location can also be very time-consuming.

Made-to-measure security

An effective way to avoid these issues is to install a modular vault. Offering a completely bespoke, on-site-assembled security room to fit an allocated space, they are increasingly specified by companies looking for extra space with added security, as they not only offer a high security option, they are also relatively quick and easy to install and provide a controlled environment. They can be included in the original plans for a building as a dedicated strong room or added later if required.

Offering a five-sided solution if necessary for maximum security and installation flexibility, the individual components of each modular vault are manufactured off-site to fit the precise specification required by the customer or specifier, which can be in either a new or existing building. The measurements and precise requirements will have been set during a comprehensive survey before being delivered to site as individual panels and welded securely into place.

Customised furnishing such as cabinets and rack systems allow effective stock management systems to be put in place. Security deposit lockers not only offer additional security with high quality aluminium construction, but can be made bespoke to maximise use of space. A variety of different locks can be selected for the door depending on the level of security identified following an initial risk assessment.

To ensure optimum security at high risk events, such as the retrieval and putting away of stock, and to prevent opportunists from walking in and grabbing items, custom-sized grill gates can be installed in the wall so authorised personnel can pass items through to their colleagues from the inside while the door remains firmly closed.

As staff may be spending time inside a modular vault, there is the option of integrating certified airing, ventilation and alarm systems throughout the vault room via customised openings in the walls and door. This also means the perfect storage environment in terms of temperature and humidity can provided, and enables alarms to be being rigged to precise requirements.

Specifiers are advised to ensure systems comply with European security standard EN1143-1; in addition, the vault should be validated by an independent testing house such as the VdS in Germany to prove it meets stringent criteria to resist attack.

Jeremy Cassady is managing director of Securikey.